"Secret Star Wars Cut to Screen in London"

If you think you've seen the original 1977 Star Wars, think again. Chances are, you've watched one of the many altered versions that George Lucas released after its initial run. These modified versions eventually became the well-known "special editions" of the iconic film. However, there's a new hope for fans eager to experience the untouched original cut that Lucas left behind so long ago.

This June, the British Film Institute's Film on Film Festival will kick off with a rare screening of one of the few surviving Technicolor prints from Star Wars' initial release. According to The Telegraph, this print hasn't been shown publicly since December 1978, though it was available on VHS in the past.

George Lucas began altering the film with its first theatrical re-release in 1981, and since then, Lucasfilm has only permitted screenings of various "special editions." Fans are in for a real treat with the print at the upcoming festival; it has been preserved at 23 degrees Fahrenheit for the last forty years, ensuring a near-flawless viewing experience.

Historically, Lucas has been steadfast in his refusal to screen the original cut of what is now known as Episode IV: A New Hope, and he has publicly discussed his stance over the years. In a 2004 interview with the Associated Press, he stated, "The Special Edition, that’s the one I wanted out there. The other movie, it’s on VHS, if anybody wants it. I’m not going to spend the — we’re talking millions of dollars here — the money and the time to refurbish that, because to me, it doesn’t really exist anymore. It’s like this is the movie I wanted it to be, and I’m sorry you saw a half-completed film and fell in love with it. But I want it to be the way I want it to be. I’m the one who has to take responsibility for it. I’m the one who has to have everybody throw rocks at me all the time, so at least if they’re going to throw rocks at me, they’re going to throw rocks at me for something I love rather than something I think is not very good, or at least something I think is not finished."

It's unclear why Lucas has seemingly had a change of heart regarding this screening, but fans certainly aren't complaining.