Lucasfilm has officially commenced principal photography on Star Wars: Starfighter, a highly anticipated standalone film set to expand the Star Wars universe. Directed by Shawn Levy, the movie boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Ryan Gosling, Amy Adams, Mia Goth, Matt Smith, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, and young newcomer Flynn Gray. The announcement, accompanied by a behind-the-scenes image of Gosling and Gray leaning against a speeder in a hangar set, marks a significant milestone for the franchise, which has not seen a theatrical release since Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in 2019.
Director Shawn Levy expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I feel a profound sense of excitement and honor as we begin production on Star Wars: Starfighter.” He further elaborated on the personal significance of the opportunity: “From the day Kathy Kennedy called me up, inviting me to develop an original adventure in this incredible Star Wars galaxy, this experience has been a dream come true, creatively and personally.” Levy, known for his work on films like Deadpool & Wolverine and Free Guy, also reflected on the franchise’s impact on his career: “Star Wars shaped my sense of what story can do, how characters and cinematic moments can live with us forever. To join this storytelling galaxy with such brilliant collaborators onscreen and off, is the thrill of a lifetime.”
Set a few years after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Star Wars: Starfighter is poised to introduce a fresh narrative within the Star Wars universe. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy has emphasized a new direction for the franchise, focusing on standalone stories that explore the vast potential of the galaxy without being tethered to existing storylines. This approach allows for greater creative freedom and attracts top-tier talent who may prefer single-film commitments over multi-picture deals.
The cast of Star Wars: Starfighter reflects this strategy, bringing together a mix of acclaimed actors and rising stars. Ryan Gosling, an Academy Award nominee known for roles in Blade Runner 2049 and Barbie, leads the ensemble. Amy Adams, another multiple Oscar nominee recognized for her work as Lois Lane in the DC Extended Universe, joins the Star Wars franchise for the first time. The inclusion of Aaron Pierre, who is set to portray John Stewart in HBO Max’s upcoming Lanterns series, further highlights the appeal of standalone projects, allowing actors to balance high-profile roles across major franchises. Mia Goth and Matt Smith, both known for their dynamic performances in genre films, add further depth to the cast, while Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, and Flynn Gray round out the ensemble with their diverse talents.
While plot details remain closely guarded, rumors suggest the story may center on a thrilling adventure involving Gosling’s character and his young nephew, potentially played by Flynn Gray. Speculation points to Mia Goth’s character being part of a group of antagonists, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative. Lucasfilm’s tight-lipped approach ensures that official details will remain under wraps for some time, heightening anticipation for the film’s eventual reveal.
The project was first unveiled at this year’s Star Wars Celebration in Japan, where Ryan Gosling was confirmed as the lead, generating significant excitement among attendees. The event marked a pivotal moment for Star Wars: Starfighter, signaling Lucasfilm’s commitment to revitalizing the franchise with bold, standalone stories.
Star Wars: Starfighter is slated for a theatrical release in 2027, following the debut of The Mandalorian & Grogu in the summer of 2026. As production ramps up, the film promises to deliver a fresh chapter in the Star Wars saga, backed by a powerhouse cast and a visionary director.
Source: Official Star Wars website
