Why George Lucas’ Most Controversial Change in Star Wars Special Edition Doesn’t Make Sense Beyond “Han Shot First”

One of the most debated changes in the Star Wars saga revolves around an infamous scene in A New Hope. Originally, when the bounty hunter Greedo confronts Han Solo in Mos Eisley Cantina, Solo takes the initiative and shoots Greedo without warning. However, the controversial 1997 Special Edition altered this moment, making Greedo fire first and miss, leading to a subsequent return shot from Han. This revision sparked backlash among fans for various reasons, including the questionable accuracy of Greedo’s shot and the awkward, digital head movement from Han—elements that many felt detracted from the original intent of the scene.

Over the years, there have been multiple re-releases of A New Hope, each modifying the blaster exchange further. While attempts to depict both characters firing simultaneously provide a new spin, a significant portion of the fan base still clamors for the restoration of the original scene, loudly declaring, “Han Shot First.”Beneath these debates lies an often-overlooked detail that casts doubt on all the revised versions of this iconic confrontation.

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The Peculiarities of the Blaster Bolt in the Special Editions
George Lucas’s Rationale for Changing “Han Shot First”

Inconsistencies in the Special Editions

Han Solo blasts Greedo in the 1997 Special Edition of Star Wars A New Hope

In the initial release, Han’s blaster is depicted in a more intense power mode, allowing it to penetrate not only Greedo but also the table between them, leaving a noticeable hole as evidence. This gaping hole remains visible in every subsequent version, presenting a peculiar inconsistency in the re-edited scenes. In each re-release, Han’s shots do not create any damage to the table, yet the memorable hole persists when Greedo falls. While some might dismiss this as a minor oversight, it underscores the futility of altering the already compelling confrontation.

Notably, Han Solo’s willingness to shoot first has been cemented into canon. In Brian Daly’s 1979 novel, Han Solo at Star’s End, Solo himself expresses a preference for taking action before his enemies, reinforcing his character’s motivations long before the events of the Special Editions.

The Motivation Behind the Change

Greedo falls after being blasted by Han Solo in the original 1977 version of Star Wars A New Hope

George Lucas’s rationale for revising the shootout stemmed from a desire to soften Han Solo’s image, believing that the original portrayal might resonate too negatively with audiences. However, this viewpoint remains heavily debated among fans, with many believing that the unadulterated version of Han’s actions better captures the essence of his character. The perplexing hole in the table continues to serve as a testament to the problems introduced by the alterations, even as each new edition aims to provide clarity to the infamous standoff.