Experience the First Print of Star Wars Like Never Before

In an awe-inspiring moment for cinema enthusiasts, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy recently graced the stage at the BFI Film on Film Festival in the U.K. to introduce a rare screening of the original print of Star Wars from 1977. This event, showcasing the film as it was initially intended, has sent waves of excitement through the fandom, as many fans have long believed that the original, unedited version of the film was lost to time.

During her introduction, Kennedy passionately stated, “I came to legitimize them, make sure that you don’t think this is an illegal screening… [There’s incredible folklore around this print.] It’s quite remarkable. What you’re going to see is in fact the first print, and I’m not sure there’s another one quite like it.” Her words highlight the significance of this extraordinary screening, shedding light on the history surrounding the film and its many modifications over the years.

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A True Moment In Star Wars History

This moment feels surreal for anyone who cherishes Star Wars. Since its inception, George Lucas has revisited his magnum opus, making a multitude of changes that fundamentally altered the film’s narrative. These revisions began shortly before the release of The Empire Strikes Back, when the film was retitled to “A New Hope” and branded as “Episode IV.” It wasn’t until recently that the BFI Archives discovered a treasure trove: the first print of the original Star Wars film, untouched and in its purest form from 1977. This serendipity led to the monumental collaboration with Lucasfilm for its public screening.

For the lucky attendees, the experience was nothing short of historic. They were privy to the artistry and narrative as originally envisioned by Lucas, free from the alterations that came to define the franchise’s evolution. It’s impossible to overstate the cultural and emotional weight of witnessing a film that has shaped generations.

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This Is Every Star Wars Fan’s Dream

For those of us who grew up before the Special Editions, nostalgia intertwines with our view of the film. We cherish details that contemporary audiences often overlook. I can’t help but feel an aching envy towards the fortunate few who experienced this first print firsthand—an unfiltered glimpse into the galaxy far, far away, predating the extensive edits that followed.

The mere existence of this original print raises tantalizing possibilities: Could Lucasfilm consider a wide release of this untouched version? While it seems improbable—given Lucas’s famed reluctance to revisit past cuts—audiences can still dream of a future where they might see the film as it was meant to be experienced. The discovery of the first print is a reminder of the enduring allure and intricate history of Star Wars.

It’s not merely a film. It’s a cultural cornerstone, a testament to creativity, and an emotional journey that continues to empower stories told in various formats, from The Mandalorian to Obi-Wan Kenobi, showcasing the impact of its legacy on the entertainment landscape.