Lucasfilm to Debut Original Star Wars in IMAX 70mm for 50th Anniversary
The 1977 classic will receive its first-ever IMAX release alongside the premiere of Star Wars: Starfighter.
Lucasfilm and Disney have announced a historic cinematic event for 2027, bringing the original 1977 Star Wars film to IMAX 70mm for the first time. This technical milestone arrives as part of a yearlong celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the franchise.
The original film is scheduled to return to theaters on February 19, 2027. According to Lucasfilm, this newly restored version will be screened at a select number of IMAX 70mm film locations. Following this, the new feature film Star Wars: Starfighter, starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Shawn Levy, will premiere on May 28, 2027. This date is strategically timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary weekend of the original movie's initial premiere.
A New Era for the Galaxy
Star Wars: Starfighter represents a distinct shift in the franchise's storytelling. Set approximately five years after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, the film is designed as a standalone adventure. Lucasfilm has confirmed that the story will move away from the series' established history by excluding legacy characters, focusing instead on a fresh narrative. To ensure a premium visual experience, the production utilized IMAX-certified cameras and will be converted into IMAX 70mm film prints for its theatrical run.
The Gold Standard of Cinema
Bringing these films to IMAX 70mm is a significant move given the format's rarity. Known as the gold standard of cinematic presentation, 70mm film is only available in a handful of specialized theaters worldwide. For the 1977 original, this marks the first time in five decades that the film will be presented in this high-fidelity format. The move is expected to be a major draw for both hardcore cinephiles and lifelong fans who seek the highest possible image quality and scale.
Looking Ahead
As the 2027 anniversary year approaches, the industry will be watching how this dual-release strategy impacts the brand. While the technical specifications and release dates are set, the specific plot details of Star Wars: Starfighter remain under wraps. The focus remains on whether this standalone approach, paired with the prestige of 70mm film, can revitalize the theatrical experience for a new generation of viewers while honoring the legacy of the original 1977 release.