Disney plans to release a 4K version ofStar Wars: The Empire StrikesBack, the second movie in theStar Warsoriginal trilogy, in the United Kingdom. This re-release of the 1980 movie — set to celebrate its 40th anniversary on June 20 — is being done in conjunction with the reopening of movie theaters across the pond. As of mid-June, we know UK theaters are looking to reopen in early July after months-long closures due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Varietyreports the plannedEmpire Strikes Backscreenings will be at VUE Cinemas across the UK. This is the first time one of the originalStar WarsSkywalker saga trilogy movies has been shown in 4K. UK movie theaters were among the last business to shutter, ultimately closing their doors around mid-March. Earlier this week, we reported Regal Cinemas ownerCineworld plans to reopen U.S. and UK locationson July 10. Similarly, Variety notes VUE theaters are looking at an early July reopening, too. That said, it’s unclear whetherEmpire Strikes Backscreenings will be available on the day of reopening or a little further down the line. It’s also unclear how long the 1980Star Warsmovie will be available at VUE locations.
Given the stature of theStar Warsfranchise, this is a smart move for both Disney and VUE, especially as the latter company looks to entice moviegoers back to theaters since the mid-March closures. It’s also a great way for Disney and Lucasfilm to celebrate the milestone anniversary of theStar Warsmovie. One additional mention in Variety’s report worth focusing on is Disney is reportedly offering a variety of titles, in addition toEmpire Strikes Back, to UK exhibitors. This seems to go hand-in-hand with the push to revive moviegoing in the UK; Disney movies always manage to bring in customers, after all.
UK moviegoers will be able to seeStar Wars: The Empire Strikes Backat VUE Cinemas locations beginning in July. Additionally, UK and U.S.Star Warsfans can watchThe Empire Strikes Backon Disney+. Get even moreStar Warsupdateshere.
