FilmRise Acquires ‘Star Wars’ Behind-the-Scenes Documentary ‘Elstree 1976’
FilmRise has picked up North American distribution rights for the documentary “Elstree 1976,” which follows the making of the “Star Wars” series, from the original 1977 classic “A New Hope” to the recent blockbuster hit, “The Force Awakens.”
The film will offer a variety of new perspectives, taking viewing behind the creation of beloved characters and interviewing extras who were ultimately cut from the films. “Elstree 1976” also delves into the dedicated community behind “Star Wars” fans, and how the series was able to impact people of different lifestyles, generations and cultures.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, “Elstree” refers to the town in England that houses the original “Star Wars” studio, which was filmed in the summer of 1976. The film was financed through a Kickstarter campaign by director Jon Spira (“Anybody Can Play Guitar”) before it was picked up by distributors.
In response to this avid fan reaction, FilmRise CEO Danny Fisher said, “As evidenced by the incredible success of the latest ‘Star Wars’ installment, the franchise has found its way back into mainstream consciousness. We are confident fans will enjoy this exploratory look into the lives of the original film’s actors and extras, as it provides them with a new perspective on this massive cultural phenomenon.”
The documentary premiered in the 2015 London Film Festival, but there is no current release date set for North America.
