Lucasfilm Sets ‘Star Wars: A New Hope’ IMAX 70mm Re-Release & New Behind-The-Scenes Doc ‘The Hero Awakens’ For 50th Anniversary Celebrations

Lucasfilm and Disney have restored the original Star Wars (1977) and will release the film in multiple formats, including IMAX 70mm, as part of the franchise’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

The re-release is among several events Lucasfilm and Disney announced this afternoon for next year’s anniversary celebrations.

Screenings of the original 1977 version of Star Wars will begin on February 19. In addition to the IMAX 70mm screenings, the film will also be presented in Digital IMAX, Digital Cinema, 70mm, 35mm, and 4DX.

On May 4th, 2027, Lucasfilm will release a new behind-the-scenes documentary, The Hero Awakens, from filmmaker R.J. Cutler on Disney+. The film is said to detail the making of Star Wars. The company’s synopsis reads: “This film will be a unique treat for fans as it exclusively features archival footage and audio captured during and around the making of the historic film in 1977.” The Hero Awakens is produced by Lucasfilm, Cutler and This Machine, and Kennedy/Marshall.

2027 Star Wars events already on the calendar include Shawn Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter, which will be released on May 28. Season 2 of Ahsoka will premiere January 20, 2027. Star Wars Celebration will take place on April 1-4 in Los Angeles.

“It is incredibly special to mark the 50th anniversary by returning the original version of Star Wars to theaters so audiences can experience this part of film history on the big screen,” Lucasfilm Co-President Lynwen Brennan said in a statement. “We look forward to celebrating with our fans all year long—from the releases of ‘Ahsoka’ and ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ to exclusive merchandise, new publishing stories, unforgettable experiences and interactive games. We are so thankful for our amazing community and hope these experiences bring joy to Star Wars fans everywhere.”