FilmRise announced today that it has acquired from The Works the exclusive North American distribution rights in all media for ELSTREE 1976. Slated for release in May 2016, the documentary centers on the untold, behind-the-scenes stories of the iconic series, which spans nearly four decades from George Lucas' original A New Hope to J.J. Abrams' recent record-breaking blockbuster The Force Awakens.
Having made its world premiere at the 2015 London Film Festival, Elstree 1976 explores the lives of the actors and extras behind one of the most celebrated franchises in cinematic history. From the man behind film's most iconic villain, to the actor whose character was completely cut from the final film, the documentary delves into the eccentric community these individuals have formed and how the Star Wars franchise continues to impact their lives decades later. Directed by Jon Spira and produced by Hank Starrs, the film was recognized by ScreenDaily as an "affectionate tribute" that "offers a slice of enjoyable nostalgia, capturing a sense of life as silly, surprising, regretful and all too fleeting." The Hollywood Reporter has hailed it as a "genial, humane project with obvious fan appeal." "As evidenced by the incredible success of the latest Star Wars installment, the franchise has found its way back into mainstream consciousness," said FilmRise CEO Danny Fisher. "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."Videos