The Force is about to awaken in theaters once more. Star Wars: A New Hope—the film that launched a galaxy of movies, books, comics, video games, and obsessive trivia contests—is making its triumphant return to the big screen in April 2027 to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Yes, it’s been half a century since Luke stared longingly at Tatooine’s twin suns, and we all signed up for a lifetime of space drama. Starting April 30, 2027, the legendary space opera will screen in select theaters worldwide, kicking off a limited run that’s bound to sell out faster than you can say “I’ve got a bad feeling about this.” When and Where to Catch the 50th Anniversary Re-Release Lucasfilm hasn’t dropped the full map of participating theaters just yet, but what we do know is this: Ticket sales haven’t opened yet, but get ready to mash that refresh button in late 2026…
A New Hope
Stormtrooper Helmet from A New Hope Sells for $256,000—Because Nostalgia Has No Price Limit
Blaster bolts might not hit their mark, but Star Wars collectibles? Bullseye—every time. At the Echoes from the Galaxy auction during San Diego Comic-Con 2025, one of the six surviving stormtrooper stunt helmets from Star Wars: A New Hope just sold for a staggering $256,000. That’s not a typo. That’s nearly a quarter million credits for a beat-up plastic bucket that once graced the sands of Tatooine. And honestly? Worth every galactic cent. What Makes This Stormtrooper Helmet So Special? We’re not talking about a replica from a fan cave in Nevada. This is screen-used, original trilogy, 1976 Shepperton Design Studios realness. Worn during filming in Tunisia, this helmet is a “stunt” version—meaning it wasn’t just for looks. It saw action. Sand. Heat. Probably some shouting from George Lucas. Here’s why it matters: It’s part film prop, part holy grail. The Collector Scene Strikes Back The sale speaks volumes about…
Does Vader Know Leia is His Daughter?
The Star Wars universe is full of dramatic reveals, but perhaps none is quite as galaxy-shaking as the revelation that Darth Vader is not only Luke Skywalker’s father but also the father of Princess Leia Organa. For years, fans (oops, I said it) speculated on whether Vader knew about Leia’s true parentage during the events of the original trilogy. So, did the Dark Lord of the Sith ever realize that his own daughter was right under his nose, blasting Stormtroopers and sassing Imperial officers? The Early Years: Vader’s Blind Spot To understand why Vader didn’t sense Leia’s presence early on, you have to look at the timeline. In A New Hope, Leia is captured, interrogated, and even witnesses the destruction of her home planet, Alderaan. And yet, Vader seems blissfully unaware that the defiant senator standing before him is his flesh and blood. Awkward family reunion, huh? This oversight can…