The Aluminum Falcon said:
Pacing is probably why the pre-Death Star battle meeting between Biggs and Luke was cut in the theatrical version. It somewhat ruins the grim atmosphere before the battle (i.e. Ben dead, Han leaving, Leia not that hopeful) by having a friendly meeting between two old friends.
Wow, I never thought of that. It makes so much sense too! I can't remember seeing it without that scene, but now I really want to. D_J's V3... can't... wait...