To coincide with the theatrical release of the Star Wars Trilogy Special Edition, Dark Horse will publish Star Wars: A New Hope -- The Special Edition,, an all-new adaptation of this all-important film. Like the film itself, this comics series will feature scenes and characters that were not included in the original cut.

The comic series, adapted from George Lucas' screenplay is written by Bruce Jones (Star Wars: Tales From Mos Eisley), pencilled by Eduardo Barreto (Aliens/Predator: The Deadliest of the Species), and inked by longtime Star Wars artist Al Williamson (Classic Star Wars). This 20th anniversary adaptation will be published in two formats. It will be released as a four-issue comics series, featuring interlocking, painted covers by Dave Dorman (Star Wars: Dark Empire, Aliens: Tribes); and, simultaneous with the first issue of the series, Dark Horse will release the adaptation in a single-volume trade paperback, featuring a painted cover by award-winning fantasy artists The Brothers Hildebrant.

"I've long regretted not having the time to work on the comics adaptation of the first Star Wars film," said Williamson. "It's not often you get a second chance at such a big event. I'm delighted to be a part of this."

Experience the epic battle between good and evil again -- for the very first time. Three disparate people -- a princess, a farm-boy, and a smuggler -- band together to rid the galaxy of the evil Empire, and fight the forces of the dreaded Darth Vader. Star Wars: A New Hope -- Special Edition #1 ships January 3, 1997 and retails for $2.95; Star Wars: A New Hope -- Special Edition trade paperback ships January 10, 1997 and retails for $9.95.

The Star Wars Trilogy Special Edition will be released in theatres in 1997 starting with Star Wars: A New Hope on January 31 and followed by The Empire Strikes Back on February 21 and Return of the Jedi on March 7.