Filming for the new Star Wars movie, Starfighter, is progressing in the Mediterranean, giving fans their first close glimpse of Ryan Gosling’s enigmatic lead character. The Ryan Gosling Starfighter character has drawn attention as details about the plot remain scarce.
On September 17, director Shawn Levy, known for his work on Deadpool and Wolverine, shared a photo from the set featuring Gosling alongside co-star Flynn Gray. The image shows Gosling dressed in rugged attire seated atop a water vehicle, with Gray standing against the scenic horizon.
The film began production in late August, with Levy previously sharing an early set photo showing both actors near a futuristic landspeeder. Lucasfilm describes Starfighter as
“an entirely original story set in a period of time never before explored in Star Wars.”
Levy emphasized that the movie is
“not a prequel, not a sequel,”
but
“a new adventure … set in a period of time that we haven’t seen explored yet.”
Starfighter will take place about five years after the events of 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker.
Little is officially known about the characters or storyline, but fan speculation suggests Flynn Gray’s character might be the nephew of Gosling’s protagonist, who is tasked with protecting the boy from pursuing dark forces, hinting at a lone protector dynamic.
Supporting cast members include Amy Adams, of Man of Steel fame, along with Matt Smith from House of the Dragon and Mia Goth, who was also in Frankenstein. Both Smith and Goth are reported to portray villains in the film.
Star Wars: Starfighter is set to premiere in theaters on May 28, 2027. The next Star Wars movie scheduled for release is Jon Favreau’s The Mandalorian & Grogu, a spinoff from the acclaimed Disney+ series, arriving on May 22, 2026.
A Closer Look at Filming and Key Characters
Ryan Gosling’s character was first revealed through photos shared by Shawn Levy while filming took place in the Mediterranean Sea. The rugged appearance and the presence of a water vehicle highlight a fresh setting within the Star Wars universe. Flynn Gray’s inclusion adds interest, especially as rumors hint at a protective relationship between their two characters.
Original Storytelling in a New Era
Starfighter’s narrative stands apart from previous Star Wars films by exploring a previously uncharted timeframe. The film will weave an original plot, set five years after the saga’s last installment. This approach aims to expand the universe while introducing new faces and locations.
Starfighter’s Ensemble Cast and Villain Roles
The film features a notable supporting lineup. Amy Adams, celebrated for her role in Man of Steel, joins the cast alongside Matt Smith of House of the Dragon and Mia Goth, recognized for Frankenstein. Smith and Goth are confirmed to portray antagonists, enriching the film’s conflict.
Upcoming Release Schedule for Star Wars Films
Star Wars: Starfighter will target a theatrical release on May 28, 2027, furthering the franchise’s cinematic timeline. Before that, Jon Favreau’s The Mandalorian & Grogu spinoff will premiere on May 22, 2026, continuing the story of the beloved Disney+ series.
“Somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea #Starfighter,”
Shawn Levy, Director
“an entirely original story set in a period of time never before explored in Star Wars.”
Lucasfilm
“not a prequel, not a sequel,”
Shawn Levy, Director
“a new adventure … set in a period of time that we haven’t seen explored yet.”
Shawn Levy, Director
