The Force is returning to the big screen! Lucasfilm is celebrating 50 years of Star Wars with a theatrical re-release of the original 1977 movie, giving longtime fans and a new generation of children an opportunity to experience the galaxy far, far away in theaters.
Lucasfilm and Disney have announced that the original Star Wars will return to theaters on February 19, 2027, as part of the franchise’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The restored 1977 theatrical version, originally released as Star Wars before being renamed A New Hope, will receive its first-ever IMAX presentation.
Screenings will be available in IMAX 70mm, digital IMAX, traditional 70mm and 35mm formats, as well as 4DX and D-BOX theaters. The release will span thousands of screens worldwide.
The restoration allows audiences to revisit the original movie in a theatrical setting, rather than watching another updated home-video edition. For parents, it could also be an opportunity to introduce children to the film that started one of entertainment’s most recognizable franchises.
When Do Screenings Begin, and What’s Special About Them?
The anniversary screenings begin February 19, 2027, with a newly restored presentation of the original theatrical release. A new commemorative logo featuring a newly orchestrated John Williams score will accompany the presentation, alongside anniversary poster artwork by Matt Ferguson.
Lucasfilm Co-President Lynwen Brennan called the return of the original movie “incredibly special,” explaining that the goal is to let audiences experience “this part of film history on the big screen.” StarWars.com also confirms that the celebration will include special events, merchandise and archival releases throughout 2027.
Other Plans for the ‘Star Wars’ 50th Anniversary
The theatrical re-release is just one part of a much larger celebration. Beginning in March 2027, Cosm will offer an immersive version of A New Hope at venues in Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit and Los Angeles, using enormous 12K+ LED domes to surround audiences with the action.
Cosm’s experience will feature an 87-foot-wide screen and specially designed visual effects. The company describes its approach as “Shared Reality,” combining traditional filmmaking with immersive environments.
Other celebrations include Ahsoka Season 2 on Disney+, a behind-the-scenes documentary on May 4 and the new movie Star Wars: Starfighter, arriving May 28. With anniversary toys, LEGO collections, concerts and fan events also planned, 2027 promises to be a memorable year for Star Wars families.
