Star Wars Franchise Makes History with First-Ever IMAX 70mm Releases for 1977 Classic and 2027 Sequel

Key points

• The 1977 'Star Wars: A New Hope' will re-release on February 19, 2027, for its 50th anniversary, featuring the franchise's first-ever IMAX 70mm screening.
• The new standalone film 'Star Wars: Starfighter,' directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Gosling, will release on May 28, 2027, also in IMAX 70mm.
• 'Starfighter' was filmed using IMAX-certified cameras and will be converted to 70mm prints for a limited number of venues worldwide.
• The decision follows a surge in IMAX 70mm popularity, driven by Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey,' which grossed over $450 million in the format this year.
• The original 1977 film had never previously been screened in IMAX, as the format was not standard for feature films at the time of its release.

Background

The announcement builds on earlier coverage from our archive, which noted that 'Starfighter' was unveiled at D23 in August 2026. At that time, Ryan Gosling and director Shawn Levy introduced the character Kade Auberon and confirmed the May 2027 release date. The IMAX 70mm decision is a recent development that adds a premium theatrical dimension to the previously announced 50th-anniversary re-release strategy.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and Deadline both emphasize the historical significance of the 1977 film receiving its first IMAX treatment, noting that the format was not available for feature films when the original debuted. Gizmodo highlights the technical differences of 70mm, specifically the 1.43:1 aspect ratio that provides a more immersive, square-like viewing experience compared to standard widescreen. ComicBook.com contextualizes the move within the broader trend of major blockbusters, such as 'Dune: Part Three' and 'Avengers: Doomsday,' competing for IMAX exclusivity, suggesting that the success of 'The Odyssey' has made the format a near-mandate for major releases. All sources agree that 'Starfighter' was specifically filmed for IMAX, whereas the 1977 film will be converted to the format.

Why it matters

This move signals a shift in how legacy franchises are marketed, leveraging the premium experience of IMAX 70mm to drive box office revenue for both new and classic titles. The success of 'The Odyssey' in this format has demonstrated that audiences are willing to pay premium prices for high-quality large-format screenings, making it a strategic choice for Lucasfilm to maximize the impact of the 50th anniversary and the new 'Starfighter' release.

What to watch

The 1977 'Star Wars' re-release is scheduled for February 19, 2027, followed by 'Star Wars: Starfighter' on May 28, 2027. Both films will be available in IMAX 70mm at a select number of venues worldwide, as well as in digital IMAX screens. The limited availability of 70mm theaters may lead to high demand and potential ticket scalping, similar to the trends seen with 'The Odyssey' and 'Dune: Part Three.'