Star Wars (20th Century Fox, 1977). Fine+ on Paper. Half Sheet (22" X 28"). Rare No Ratings Box Style. Tom Jung Artwork.. ...

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Star Wars (20th Century Fox, 1977). Fine+ on Paper. Half Sheet (22" X 28"). Rare No Ratings Box Style. Tom Jung Artwork.
Many assume that the lack of a rating on a poster mean that that particular piece was intended for international use. Not so with promotional material for Star Wars. This rare half sheet poster was printed in the early days of promotion for the film, before the sci-fi epic had been granted a PG rating by the MPAA. Because of the wholesomeness of the picture, 20th Century Fox was actually concerned that the film might garner a G rating, which would have been boxed office poison amongst the college-aged demographic they were counting on to support the film. There was a delay in the final issuance of the rating as Fox did all they could to convince the board to issue a PG. Photos from the time show that the initial 24-sheets distributed for the film (which feature very similar artwork to this half-sheet) did not carry the rating, and US posters exist to which a paste-up rating snipe has been applied. From this we can surmise that the need to promote the film outpaced the MPAA ratings verdict, and the earliest round of US posters for domestic use did not bear a ratings box. Ultimately, before the film's release on May 25th, the ratings board issued a PG based on the quick shot depicting the smoking remains of Luke's Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru. The 22" X 28" half-sheet poster size was already on the way out in the mid-to-late 1970s, so far fewer were created and survived the initial run of the film than more prevalent formats like one sheets. Paperbacked, the poster received expert airbrushing to the borders and white interior. A crease ran from the lower image into the upper billing block. Thanks to this artful administrations, any former flaw is virtually invisible and the poster presents beautifully.

Even though its films take place in a galaxy far, far away, the Star Wars franchise has connected with audiences since the original film's release in 1977. 20th Century Fox had no idea that the film would resonate so much with fans, so when George Lucas agreed to pass up a $500,000 directing bonus to attain merchandising rights, it seemed safe for the studio to do. However, Lucas, who had seen the merchandising blitz that came with his good friend Steven Spielberg's Jaws, knew well the power that films had on consumers. George Lucas' imagination led to a licensing goldmine of action figures, play sets, posters, board games, books, trading cards, costumes, and more. It's been 45 years since Star Wars hit the screen, and the franchise has raked in over $29 billion in merchandise sales alone. Much more than the Joseph Campbell hero's journey set in a space opera, the retail and promotional items made in conjunction with this multi-faceted property have brought tremendous joy to fans worldwide and remain coveted among collectors. The characters, the settings, and the galaxy continue to be beloved by Force believers, and here we present an extensive treasure trove of rare items dating from 1977 to today. May the Fourth be with you! Starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Alec Guinness, Peter Cushing, Anthony Daniels, Kenny Baker, Peter Mayhew, David Prowse, and the voice of James Earl Jones.


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