The forthcoming standalone film in the Star Wars universe, titled ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’, is set to premiere in cinemas on 28 May 2027. Directed by Shawn Levy and featuring Ryan Gosling in a leading role, the film promises to deliver an engaging story that aligns with the beloved franchise’s legacy.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the A Sense of Home NYC Gala, Levy, who has also been involved with popular films such as ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ and ‘Free Guy’, expressed his excitement about working on such a massive franchise as a self-proclaimed fan. “I’m working on this small little niche art film called Star Wars,” he jokingly noted. His passion for the Star Wars legacy shines through, as he aims to create a film that resonates with both loyal fans and new audiences.
Levy articulated that his unique approach to big franchises stems from his deep appreciation for the source material. “When I make a Marvel movie, I’m a Marvel fan making that movie. When I’m making Star Wars, I’m a fan making that movie,” he stated, illustrating his commitment to honouring the essence of these widely adored narratives.
The plot of ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ centres on Gosling’s character, Kade Auberon, a disenchanted pilot who becomes embroiled in a perilous mission to safeguard a young boy, portrayed by Flynn Gray. The timeline of the film is set approximately five years after the events of ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’, promising to delve into the evolving universe of the saga.
Gosling is not only leading the cast but is also an executive producer on the film, collaborating closely with both Levy and Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm. Levy has praised Gosling for being not only a talented actor but also a creative collaborator whose insights enrich the filmmaking process. He described Gosling as a “great partner” who approaches the project with a full spectrum of creativity, encompassing everything from the performance itself to the finer details of production design.
Reflecting on his career, Levy emphasised his passion for making films that can be enjoyed by families. He mentioned his foundational experiences with family-oriented movies, such as ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ and ‘Night at the Museum’. “I love making stories about and for families,” said Levy, highlighting his belief in the power of storytelling to bring people together.
His commitment to creating multi-generational entertainment can also be seen in his work on Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’, a series he helped develop with the Duffer brothers. Levy expressed joy at the show’s ability to cultivate connections between different generations, saying, “any opportunity to create family units, to create connective tissue, I think that’s a privilege.”
With ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ set to release in May 2027, fans are undoubtedly eager to see how Levy’s vision unfolds, especially given the filmmaker’s enthusiasm for captivating storytelling. Levy’s acknowledgement of the importance of family-oriented narratives suggests that this new chapter in the iconic franchise may not only cater to longtime Star Wars enthusiasts but could also attract a wider audience seeking heartwarming and adventurous tales.
As anticipation builds, it is evident that the combination of Levy’s direction and Gosling’s involvement signifies a promising addition to the Star Wars canon. As the release date approaches, many will be looking forward to experiencing a fresh narrative that retains the essence of the legendary series while also pushing the boundaries of intergalactic storytelling.