Rian Johnson cherishes Star Wars fandom despite mixed reviews. [Image Source: GIZMODO]
Director Rian Johnson discussed his experiences with the Star Wars fandom following the release of The Last Jedi, Episode 8 of the saga, which came out in 2017. Despite mixed reactions from fans, Johnson emphasized that his engagement with the community has been overwhelmingly positive, enhancing his passion for the Star Wars universe and shaping his outlook on the franchise.
The Complex Relationship Between Fans and The Last Jedi
The Last Jedi remains one of the most debated entries in the Star Wars series, with distinct sections of the fandom either praising or criticizing it intensely. At the Newport Beach Film Festival, Johnson was asked whether this divided response influenced his decision to continue working within the galaxy far, far away. He firmly denied that fan reaction deterred him from returning.
Johnson explained,
“No, not at all. In fact, it’s the reason that I wanted to. My overall experience with putting the movie out, and what you’re talking about with fan feedback – I mean, first of all, I’m a lifelong Star Wars fan. And so I know the deal. I know that Star Wars fans are passionate about this stuff. We love the stuff we love, we hate the stuff we hate, and we fight about it. And that’s been happening since the original trilogy. I was in college when the prequels came out. Are you kidding me? The prequel wars? We had a few. I mean, everybody did.”
He continued with further insight into the nature of Star Wars fandom:
“And so, the notion that Star Wars has been this kind of Shangri-La, united fandom, and that [nothing] could then split that apart [is false],”
followed by
“The reality is Star Wars has always been something that has meant different things to different people. And I think that’s part of the fun and the passion of it as fans, is arguing about it respectfully.”
Johnson’s comments highlight the longstanding passion and diversity within the fan community, which has fueled debates for decades.
Johnson’s Positive Engagement with Star Wars Fans
Johnson revealed that his interaction with fans after the release of The Last Jedi has been deeply rewarding, contrary to expectations that fan division might create a negative experience. He stated,
“I’ve talked to so many people over the years, since we made that movie, who have such deep connections to Star Wars and who have deep connections to that movie. And so it’s been the most positive experience I’ve ever had with anything I’ve made, in terms of interacting with people who’ve seen it. I came out at the other end of it loving Star Wars fandom more than I did even going into it.”
Future Prospects for Rian Johnson in the Star Wars Universe
While The Last Jedi was originally planned to be the beginning of a new trilogy helmed by Johnson, those plans appear to be on hold for now. The director has turned his focus to other creative projects, including the Knives Out series and the Poker Face television show. Yet he remains open to returning to the Star Wars galaxy in the future, saying,
Image of: Rian Johnson
“I kind of went down the murder mystery rabbit hole – I’m focused on making other stuff,”
and
“But that wouldn’t rule out it happening down the line. If I get back in the Star Wars universe someday, I’d be the happiest person.”
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Star Wars Projects and Johnson’s Work
Fans awaiting new Star Wars content will soon see the franchise’s continued presence on screen, with The Mandalorian and Grogu returning next May. Additionally, Johnson’s Knives Out 3 will be available on Netflix on December 12, marking the latest entry in his recent creative ventures. The ongoing evolution of the Star Wars saga remains dynamic, keeping the fandom engaged as future stories unfold across different media.
