Before J.J. Abrams took the helm of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in 2019, David Fincher, a Golden Globe-winning director, was considered to direct the final installment of the Skywalker saga. Although Fincher declined the offer to direct Episode IX, he remained interested in contributing to the Star Wars universe. He developed a concept for a sequel to The Rise of Skywalker and presented this idea to Lucasfilm, aiming to continue the franchise.
Reasons Behind Lucasfilm’s Rejection of Fincher’s Proposal
According to The InSneider, the discussions between Fincher and Lucasfilm ended without an agreement largely because Lucasfilm would not relinquish complete control over the movie’s final cut. This refusal to grant Fincher full creative authority led to the studio turning down his sequel pitch. Specific details about the plot or scope of Fincher’s discarded Star Wars sequel have not been revealed.
Fincher’s History with Star Wars and Industry Connections
David Fincher’s connection to Star Wars predates his directing career; he worked as an assistant cameraman on Lucasfilm’s Return of the Jedi early in his career. Additionally, Studio president Kathleen Kennedy, who helmed Lucasfilm, previously collaborated with Fincher as a co-producer on his 2008 film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. These ties suggest that Fincher remains a recognizable figure within the Star Wars creative community.
Other Directors’ Unused Star Wars Projects
Fincher’s rejected project is not unique. Steven Soderbergh, another well-regarded filmmaker, once developed a plan for a solo Kylo Ren film starring Adam Driver. This concept was also declined by Disney executives, who expressed skepticism about how the character Kylo Ren could plausibly survive within the story’s timeline, leading to the project’s cancellation despite its potential.
Implications for Future Star Wars Direction
Lucasfilm’s decisions to deny pitches from directors like Fincher and Soderbergh highlight the studio’s caution in expanding the Star Wars saga beyond established narratives. However, given Fincher’s past involvement with the franchise and his reputation in the film industry, it remains possible he might direct a Star Wars project in the future if conditions align.
“The Fight Club director’s conditions to helm the project were not met by Lucasfilm.” ?The InSneider
“Disney executives just didn’t see how Driver’s character could still be alive.” ?The InSneider
