Filmmaker Rian Johnson has revealed new insights about his upcoming Rian Johnson sci-fi thriller, sharing his creative direction for the project while promoting his latest Knives Out film. Johnson, speaking with Variety, signaled a return to the style of classic 1970s cinema, describing a suspenseful and original narrative that blends paranoia and science fiction.
Johnson Outlines Vision for New Sci-Fi Suspense Film
During his conversation, Johnson explained that he is currently developing a unique science fiction thriller, emphasizing the project’s inspiration from the paranoid thrillers of the 1970s. This marks the clearest indication yet of his cinematic aims for the film.
“The most exciting thing right now is this idea I have in my head for the next thing I’m gonna make, and I think ultimately, that’s all you can do, is just kind of follow your nose,”
said Johnson. He further elaborated,
“If I had to define it genre wise, I’d say it harkens back to the ’70s paranoid thrillers. It’s got a light sci fi element to it.”
The script for the Rian Johnson sci-fi thriller is currently being written, and Johnson is aiming to start production in 2026. Although specific storyline details have not been released, the promised mix of suspenseful tension and science fiction will set it apart from his previous work. His comments suggest the project will channel the mood and energy associated with classic films from a transformative era in cinema.
Upcoming Projects and Recent Releases
While anticipation builds for this forthcoming thriller, audiences can look forward to Johnson’s next movie, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. This sequel is scheduled for limited theatrical release before streaming on Netflix starting December 12, 2025. Daniel Craig reprises his role as detective Benoit Blanc, who this time investigates a murder inside a church. The new installment also boasts a highly regarded ensemble cast, including Jeremy Renner, Mila Kunis, Kerry Washington, Josh O’Connor, Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Andrew Scott, Cailee Spaeny, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church.
Lasting Impact From Star Wars and Beyond
Johnson remains a prominent figure in discussions about the Star Wars franchise, as his 2017 entry, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, continues to ignite debate while earning over $1.3 billion globally. Although Lucasfilm initially enlisted Johnson to develop a new trilogy, that project is not currently in motion. Despite this, the director reflected on his enduring connection to the galaxy far, far away:
“A part of my brain will always be in Star Wars,”
said Johnson.
“It’s so much a part of me and the way I think.”
Moving forward, Johnson’s creative agenda remains full. With his Rian Johnson sci-fi thriller in active development and a high-profile return to the Knives Out series, audiences and industry followers alike can expect him to remain at the forefront of innovative genre storytelling.
