1970s

A rare US 30x40 cardstock poster for the first instalment of George Lucas' original, genre-defining, sci-fi trilogy Star Wars, featuring Tom Jung's famous 'Style A' artwork designed for the more commonly seen US 'Style A' One Sheet posters, which has become one of the most instantly recognisable poster designs of all time. Perhaps economising, the printers simply used the One Sheet printing plate to print the 30x40 format poster rather than altering the design or dimensions. Jung was chosen to create the first poster artwork for the 1977 release of Star Wars, based only on set photographs, a plot synopsis and descriptions of the characters and their motivations, along with a general theme of "Good over Evil," which he represented through the 'cross' formed by Luke Skywalker's lightsaber against the ghostly background visage of Darth Vader. Although a glamorous Princess Leia poses next to Luke, robes flowing behind her, Han Solo is notably absent. Droids C-3PO and R2-D2 were also omitted from Jung's original design, only added before the poster went to press by comic book artist Nick Cardy after a second, more fanciful reworking of Jung's composition was completed by the Hildebrandt Brothers, which included the droids on Lucasfilm's request.

US 30x40 and 40x60 posters were produced on heavy stock paper for use at drive-in theaters. In this case, the heavier paper stock has allowed for a greater saturation of colour on the paper, when compared to the US One Sheets for the film. As well as having much lower print runs than US One Sheets, very few survived in good condition as they were displayed outside and exposed to the elements. It is extremely difficult to find a US 30x40 poster in such excellent condition, as the heavier stock can crease easily.

Condition

Excellent (A-)

Unfolded cardstock, not backed. Bumps to corners, with a soft crease to upper right corner. A few soft creases to margins and two heavier creases just along the upper right edge. Printer's ink residue line along left edge. Hint of darkening to edges. Image and colours excellent. This poster would frame beautifully.