Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy has made a notable move, one that is sure to please fans of the Star Wars franchise. As previously reported, the British Film Institute had announced a rare screening of George Lucas’ original theatrical cut of Star Wars. This version of the film, which has been largely unavailable for decades, was showcased in a unique event, and Kennedy made a surprise appearance to endorse it.
At the screening, Kennedy stated, “I’m here to make sure you don’t think this is an illegal screening,” as quoted by The Independent. Over the years, George Lucas made significant alterations to the film, including adding the “Episode IV” subtitle and releasing the Special Editions in 1997, which featured substantial changes. As a result, the original version has become a rarity, with fans often seeking out unofficial means to experience it in its original form, complete with the iconic “Han shot first” scene and other notable elements.
‘I don’t think there’s another one like it, it’s that rare.’
Kathleen Kennedy introduces our BFI Film on Film Festival Opening Night film, Star Wars (1997), screening from an original 1977 Technicolor print. pic.twitter.com/qDwxvU09vF
— BFI (@BFI) June 13, 2025
Kennedy expressed her enthusiasm for the screening, stating, “It’s incredible folklore… What you’re going to see is in fact the first print, and I’m not even sure there’s another one quite like it. It’s that rare.” She also acknowledged the significance of experiencing the film in its original form, saying, “It’s quite remarkable to be able to experience this exactly the way it was in 1977. This is really special.”
While there is currently no word on an official release of the original Star Wars films, Kennedy’s support for this screening may be a step in that direction. Fans have long been eager to experience the unaltered versions of the films, and Kennedy’s endorsement could potentially pave the way for future releases. For more information on the event, visit The Independent.
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