The Special Edition of "Star Wars: A New Hope" was released in 1997 to mark the 20th anniversary of the original film's debut in 1977. The modifications made for the Special Edition were extensive and included changes to visual effects, the addition of new scenes, and alterations to existing scenes. Here's a list of some of the significant changes: 1. Enhanced Visual Effects: The Special Edition features digitally enhanced special effects, including new computer-generated imagery (CGI). The X-wing and TIE fighter dogfights, for example, were updated to look more dynamic and realistic. 2. Mos Eisley Overhaul: The spaceport of Mos Eisley received a major update, with added creatures and expanded landscape shots to make it look busier and more populated. CGI was used extensively to add moving vehicles and bustling activity. 3. Han and Greedo Shootout: One of the most controversial changes was the alteration of the scene where Han Solo is confronted by the bounty hunter, Greedo. In the original, Han shoots first. In the Special Edition, Greedo shoots first (or they shoot nearly simultaneously), which significantly altered the characterization of Han Solo in the eyes of many fans. 4. Jabba the Hutt Scene: A scene featuring Jabba the Hutt was introduced in the Special Edition. Originally cut from the 1977 release due to limitations in technology and budget, it was completed with a CGI version of Jabba. This scene essentially repeats information already conveyed through Han's interaction with Greedo. 5. Death Star Attack: Some of the sequences in the attack on the Death Star were enhanced and expanded, including additional X-wing and TIE fighter shots. The explosion of the Death Star also received a visual upgrade. 6. Ring Explosions: When the Death Star explodes, a ring was added to the explosion in the Special Edition, which became a visual motif for starship explosions in later films. 7. Luke and Biggs Reunion: A scene was added where Luke Skywalker reunites with his friend Biggs Darklighter before the Death Star attack, which fills in a bit of Luke's backstory and friendships from before the events of the movie. 8. John Williams' Musical Score: The Special Edition included a new recording of the iconic score by John Williams, along with adjustments to its synchronization with the movie's visuals. 9. Extended Ending Celebration: The ending celebration scene on Yavin IV was extended in the Special Edition, with added shots of the Rebel Alliance celebrating the victory. 10. Audio Changes: Some audio effects and dialogue were altered or cleaned up to improve clarity or to reflect the updated visuals. The above changes are a subset of the many alterations made to "Star Wars: A New Hope" for the Special Edition. These modifications were met with mixed reactions from fans and critics. Some appreciated the improved visual and audio quality, along with the attempt to modernize the film for new audiences. However, others were critical of the changes, feeling that they altered the narrative and charm of the original cinematic release. Many fans have campaigned for the release of the unaltered original trilogy, which as of my knowledge cutoff date, has not been officially re-released in its untouched form.