This summer in London, the original 1977 cinematic release of Star Wars will take to the big screen for the first time in decades. As part of the British Film Institute (BFI)’s Film on Film festival on 12 June, attendees will have the opportunity to experience the initial version of the iconic sci-fi blockbuster. The BFI noted that this particular iteration of the film is rarely showcased publicly due to the special editions produced by George Lucas in the 1990s, which introduced alterations to certain plot elements and included additional CGI characters. Nowadays, only the modified versions are accessible on official streaming platforms and Blu-ray, making screenings of the film’s original cut a rare occurrence.
James Bell, the senior curator of fiction at the BFI National Archive, expressed his enthusiasm for the festival, referring to it as a “true showcase” of the national collection. He emphasized the uniqueness of each print in the program, highlighting the individual stories they carry and how they provide a tangible connection to the past for audiences. Bell also extended gratitude to the philanthropic supporters who have contributed to ensuring the continuation of Film on Film, acknowledging their assistance in delivering a diverse and engaging program. One of the perpetual points of contention among Star Wars fans has been Lucas’s revisions to crucial plot details, particularly the introduction of Jabba the Hutt and various special effects enhancements that have polarized opinions.
Notably, one of the most contentious alterations involved a scene featuring Harrison Ford’s character, Han Solo, and his encounter with bounty hunter Greedo. In the original version, Solo takes the initiative and shoots first, but the 1997 re-release depicted his actions as a reaction in self-defense. Subsequent edits of the scene portrayed both characters firing simultaneously, further fueling debate among fans. Among the festival’s highlights is a screening of the original US pilot of Twin Peaks, personally presented by the series’ lead actor, Kyle MacLachlan. The BFI’s Film on Film Festival is scheduled to run from 12 to 15 June, with screenings held at both BFI Southbank and BFI Imax for movie enthusiasts to enjoy these cinematic treasures
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