Original Star Wars Gets First Imax 70mm Release for 50th Anniversary
The 1977 film will be re-released in Imax 70mm in February 2027, alongside the upcoming Starfighter. This marks the first time the original has been shown in Imax. Starfighter, starring Ryan Gosling, hits theaters in May 2027.
The 1977 classic is slated for a February 19, 2027 theatrical return, representing its first-ever presentation on Imax screens, whether in 70mm film or digital formats. This special engagement precedes the release of the franchise's next chapter.
The new installment, "Starfighter," directed by Shawn Levy, is scheduled for a May 28, 2027 debut. That date coincides precisely with the half-century anniversary of the original film's initial theatrical launch.
This dual release could significantly impact both nostalgic audiences and the broader box office. It may draw older generations back to cinemas while introducing younger viewers to the original on a premium large-format screen. For the industry, pairing a classic re-release with a new franchise entry could set a precedent for anniversary events, potentially boosting Imax's appeal and creating a synergistic marketing push that might elevate the opening weekend performance of "Starfighter."