British Film Institute to Present Rare Screening of Star Wars' Original Version After Several Decades
Star Wars' Original Cut to Be Screened at BFI Film on Film Festival
In an exciting turn of events for film enthusiasts, the British Film Institute (BFI) Film on Film Festival will be hosting a rare public screening of the original 1977 theatrical cut of Star Wars on June 12, 2025. This marks the first public showing of this original cut in decades, as the British Film Institute's second Film on Film Festival prepares to light up London.
The screening, which will take place on the festival's opening night, will feature a dye transfer Technicolor print from the original British release. This is a significant moment for Star Wars fans, as contemporary access to the original cuts has been limited since the 2006 DVD release of the 2004 editions of the films.
The original Star Wars trilogy was first remixed in the special editions nearly 30 years ago by George Lucas, leading to much debate among fans about the changes made to the original films. However, the fan-restored versions of the original Star Wars films have been available online for many years, providing a alternative viewing experience for those seeking the original vision.
While there have been rumors for over a decade that officially-remastered versions of the original cuts could see some form of release, none have materialized yet. This makes the BFI Film on Film Festival screening a unique opportunity to witness the original Star Wars on the big screen once again.
In addition to the Star Wars screening, the festival will also feature the first-ever UK screening of the US version of the Twin Peaks pilot. Kyle MacLachlan will introduce the screening, making this a must-see event for fans of the iconic TV series.
The festival will also celebrate upcoming releases for popular franchises such as Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, and Doctor Who, although specific details have not been provided. It's an exciting time for film fans, with the BFI Film on Film Festival promising an unforgettable lineup of events.
Tickets for the festival will start releasing from May 6, so mark your calendars and get ready for a cinematic journey back to the past. In April 2027, there will be a broader theatrical rerelease for the 50th anniversary of Star Wars: A New Hope, although the specific cut to be screened is yet to be announced. Until then, the BFI Film on Film Festival offers a rare chance to experience the original 1977 cut of Star Wars on the big screen.
[1] BFI Film on Film Festival 2025
[2] Star Wars 50th Anniversary Rerelease Announced
[3] Original Star Wars Cut to be Screened at BFI Film on Film Festival
[4] The History of Star Wars' Special Editions
[5] Star Wars 50th Anniversary Celebration Details
- Gizmodo eagerly awaits the BFI Film on Film Festival 2025, as it promises a rare opportunity to see the original 1977 cut of Star Wars on the big screen.
- io9 contemplates the impact of technology, as the revival of the original Star Wars Cut at the BFI Film on Film Festival signifies a step towards preserving the past, while also offering a unique movie-watching experience in the future.
- In the world of entertainment, Movies-and-TV talks about the anticipated Star Wars 50th Anniversary Rerelease, while also highlighting the significance of the original Star Wars Cut being screened at the BFI Film on Film Festival, thus filling the void for fans seeking the original vision of the Star Wars saga.
