As Star Wars enthusiasts eagerly await Ryan Gosling’s highly-anticipated entry into the galaxy far, far away with the standalone film Star Wars: Starfighter, the actor has shared a charming behind-the-scenes story that highlights his hands-on approach to the project. The revelation comes as he continues to promote his upcoming sci-fi feature Project Hail Mary, offering fans a rare peek at the creative process behind Lucasfilm’s next big-screen adventure.
While speaking with BBC Radio 1, Gosling opened up about his experience filming under director Shawn Levy. He described arriving early at the creature shop to familiarize himself with the elaborate practical effects being constructed for the movie. His goal was to integrate more meaningful interactions with these beings rather than letting them fade into the background, a decision that transformed a minor element into a standout sequence.
“There is a thing that happened on [Star Wars: Starfighter] – I’m going to have to tread carefully – but I went to the creature shop early to see everything that they were building so that I could find ways to interact with them in the film. ‘Cause I didn’t want them to just be going by in the background, and I found one very special one that was meant to be [a background character], and I asked if I could have a scene [with it], and it ended up being one of the most fun scenes I’ve ever done… As my wrap present, they made me a model. And so I have it my house now, and if we weren’t being filmed, I would tell you the story about that, because it was fun.”
This personal anecdote reveals Gosling’s commitment to bringing depth and authenticity to his role in the Star Wars universe. Known for his meticulous preparation and ability to infuse even high-concept projects with genuine emotion, the actor’s initiative paid off with what he describes as one of the most enjoyable scenes of his career. The custom model he received as a wrap gift now sits proudly in his home, serving as a tangible reminder of the collaborative magic that defined the production.
Star Wars: Starfighter represents a bold new direction for the franchise, set in a rebuilding galaxy approximately five to six years after Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Filming took place primarily in the United Kingdom starting in late August 2025, with additional shoots in the stunning coastal landscapes of Sardinia, Italy, before wrapping in December. The production leaned heavily on practical creature effects and detailed set pieces, marrying classic Star Wars craftsmanship with modern visual techniques under Levy’s direction. Gosling, who also serves as an executive producer, has praised the screenplay by Jonathan Tropper for its fresh take on adventure, redemption, and camaraderie, steering clear of familiar saga beats to explore original characters and conflicts.
The cast of Star Wars: Starfighter boasts an impressive ensemble led by Ryan Gosling in the starring role. He is joined by rising star Flynn Gray, along with a talented supporting lineup that includes Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, and Amy Adams. This diverse and accomplished group brings a wealth of experience across genres—from blockbuster franchises and prestige dramas to indie darlings—setting the stage for layered, dynamic performances that are expected to deepen the film’s emotional resonance and drive its adventurous spirit forward in the Star Wars universe.
Star Wars: Starfighter is scheduled for theatrical release on May 28, 2027, positioning it as one of the most anticipated events in the franchise’s future slate. With Gosling’s enthusiasm and the creative energy already evident behind the scenes, the film promises to deliver a thrilling and heartfelt addition to the Star Wars legacy.
