Star Wars Episode III to return to theaters

Revenge of the Sith approaches 20th anniversary

Officially announced February 25, Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith is returning to theaters worldwide. For the past couple years, Lucasfilm and Disney have been rereleasing Star Wars films to mark the anniversaries of the iconic saga, and fans are looking forward to the 20th anniversary of Episode III. 

For those who have never seen Star Wars, the saga follows the story of Anakin Skywalker. The first film begins when he is just nine years old and a slave on the desert planet, Tatooine. After being enlisted to join the ranks of the Jedi, the peacekeepers of the galaxy, Anakin falls in love with the queen-turned-senator of Naboo. The saga continues until Skywalker’s fall to the Dark Side and how his son, Luke, brings him back. Anakin is then able to fulfill the Chosen One Prophecy. 

Revenge of the Sith picks up after Anakin and Padmè have been secretly married. The Chancellor has been kidnapped, and he and his best friend, Obi-Wan Kenobi, must rescue the Republic’s leader from the Separatist forces. Following this successful mission, Anakin’s downfall begins. After the galactic civil war between the Republic and Separatists ends, the Empire is born with Dark Vader (or evil Anakin) and Emperor Palpatine at its helm. The Jedi are considered war criminals and only a few survive the Purge.

Though all Star Wars films are available to watch via Disney+, Revenge of the Sith’s anniversary has sparked interest in long-term Star Wars fans. Many have not seen this particular film on the big screen in years and others have never seen it in theaters at all. This big date will bring fans of all ages to the theaters to watch a favorite Star Wars film. 

But what’s the big deal? While the prequels were once hated, they have become favorites. Since the sequel trilogy has been released, fans of the saga have turned to the prequels and originals, accepting them more so than the new movies. While hard-core fans were once skeptical–even hateful–of the prequels, they have now reaccepted them with open arms and are eagerly anticipating the rerelease of the third film in theaters. This is no new occurrence. Last May, Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (or Episode I) was rereleased for its 25th anniversary. Oddly enough, Attack of the Clones was not rereleased like the other two, though it may return to theaters for its 25th. The rerelease of these movies could be due to the sudden popularity they have been given due to the previously mentioned downfall of the sequel trilogy.

Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith will return to theaters April 25, 2025.

Image created by Matt Ferguson

By: Adelle Hall