The original Star Wars trilogy stands as the pinnacle of science fiction cinema, and the instalment airing on ITV today is often hailed as the finest in the saga. This afternoon, viewers can embark on an unforgettable journey as the classic film Star Wars: A New Hope returns to television screens.
Originally released in 1977, A New Hope marked the beginning of the iconic Star Wars trilogy and transformed the movie industry. Directed by George Lucas, the film became an instant cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals, thrilling narrative, and memorable characters.
For those new to the story, the film follows Mark Hamill’s portrayal of Luke Skywalker, a farm boy on the desert world of Tatooine. His life changes forever when he discovers a hidden message inside a droid belonging to Princess Leia, played by Carrie Fisher. With the help of Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Chewbacca, and the loyal droids R2-D2 and C-3PO, Luke sets out to rescue Leia and join the Rebel Alliance against Darth Vader’s oppressive Empire.
The film continues to impress audiences and critics alike, boasting a 93 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
“A masterpiece of entertainment.”
The 1977 classic Star Wars: A New Hope, airing on ITV, remains a timeless sci-fi landmark praised for its groundbreaking storytelling and visual innovation.