Kathleen Kennedy provided updates on the status of multiple Star Wars projects, including Taika Waititi’s upcoming film, during a recent interview. She outlined which films are advancing and what remains uncertain, emphasizing the evolving nature of the franchise’s future.
Standalone Nature of Starfighter and Potential for Sequels
Among the projects Kennedy discussed was Star Wars: Starfighter, directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Gosling alongside newcomer Flynn Gray. The film was developed as a standalone story without immediate plans for a series.
“This was designed as a real stand-alone,”
Kennedy explained.
“We could just make a movie and tell a story.”
However, Gray’s performance opened the door for potential future installments, as Kennedy noted,
“You cannot ignore the fact that this young actor is so good. I will be very surprised if he doesn’t go on and we don’t try to see if there might be future stories.”
Upcoming Mandalorian Movie and Post-Production Updates
Kennedy confirmed that the next Star Wars theatrical release will be a Mandalorian movie directed by Jon Favreau, with a release scheduled for May. The film recently completed shooting in November, and Kennedy plans to oversee its post-production effects personally.
“As soon as I get back into town, I’m sitting down with Jon and looking at that.”
Scripts Delivered from Waititi, Glover, Soderbergh, and Burns
Kennedy revealed that Taika Waititi has submitted a script she described as both hilarious and excellent. Alongside Waititi’s work, Donald Glover has also delivered a screenplay, as well as a script written by Scott Burns for a project involving Steve Soderbergh and Adam Driver.
“Taika [Waititi] has turned in a script that I think is hilarious and great.”
She added,
“Donald Glover has turned in a script. And… Steve Soderbergh and Adam Driver turned in a script written by Scott Burns. It was just great.”
Despite these submissions, Kennedy emphasized that final decisions will involve collaboration beyond her own input.
“It’s not just my decision, especially when I’ve got a foot out the door.”
Concerns Over Fan Reactions Impacting Creatives
Kennedy addressed how fan responses affect filmmakers, particularly highlighting the experience of Rian Johnson. She said,
Image of: Taika Waititi
“I do believe [Rian Johnson] got spooked by the online negativity,”
and noted that many involved in the franchise feel apprehensive about backlash.
“Every filmmaker and actor says to me, ‘What’s going to happen?’ They’re a little scared.”
She also pointed out the unfair targeting of women within the Star Wars creative community.
“I’m honest, especially with the women that come into this space because they unfairly get targeted.”
Implications for the Future of Star Wars Films
These developments signal a cautious but purposeful approach to expanding the Star Wars universe, balancing fresh storytelling with audience expectations. With acclaimed talents like Taika Waititi and Donald Glover contributing scripts and Jon Favreau’s Mandalorian movie on the horizon, the franchise appears poised for creative growth. However, the influence of fan feedback and internal decision-making processes will continue shaping which projects ultimately reach the screen.
