Star Wars: Starfighter is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated additions to the Star Wars saga. Directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Gosling in the lead role, the standalone film promises high-octane starfighter combat and sweeping galactic adventures. Yet the production recently captured attention for an unexpected reason: a surprise visit from Tom Cruise that turned heads on set.
“Tom Cruise flew his helicopter onto set. And they were just shooting and they heard a helicopter, they had to cut, and it was Tom Cruise. He lands in the middle of set, he takes a camera and just starts shooting an action scene.” This vivid account comes from Ryan Gosling during his appearance on Josh Horowitz's YouTube channel.
Gosling explained that he was away from the set that day when Levy sent him a photo showing Cruise and young actor Flynn Gray trudging through mud together. The Mission: Impossible star, renowned for handling his own stunts, stepped in to operate the camera during a lightsaber duel sequence. Despite the difficult terrain and unpredictable weather, Cruise captured dynamic footage with the skill of a seasoned cinematographer. Levy had welcomed the visit and encouraged Cruise to get involved hands-on, leading to this impromptu collaboration that injected extra energy into the shoot.
The film has leaned heavily on practical effects and location filming in the United Kingdom and Sardinia, Italy, creating an authentic, grounded feel for its space battles and planetary sequences. Cruise’s participation underscores the project’s appeal to top-tier filmmakers and performers who share a passion for ambitious, effects-driven storytelling.
Star Wars: Starfighter centers on a daring pilot drawn into a larger conflict that spans the galaxy. The story follows the protagonist’s journey from a skilled but independent flyer to a key figure in a high-stakes war against a rising threat. Featuring intense dogfights, daring escapes, and personal stakes amid massive fleet engagements, the narrative explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of freedom in a time of galactic turmoil. Set in an era that bridges familiar Star Wars timelines while introducing fresh characters and conflicts, the film aims to deliver a thrilling, character-driven adventure that stands on its own.
The production boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Alongside Ryan Gosling in the starring role and Flynn Gray in a key supporting part, the film features Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, and Amy Adams in prominent roles.
Star Wars: Starfighter is scheduled for theatrical release on May 28, 2027.
