Shawn Levy Details Significant Alterations to ‘Star Wars: Starfighter‘ During Advancement
LOS ANGELES, CA – Director Shawn Levy has revealed considerable changes made to his planned Star Wars: Starfighter film during its development phase, ultimately leading to the project’s indefinite pause. Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Levy detailed how the story evolved significantly from its initial concept, shifting focus and scope multiple times under Lucasfilm’s guidance.
Originally envisioned as a more intimate, character-driven story centered around Wedge Antilles and a squadron of Rebel pilots during the original trilogy era, Starfighter underwent revisions that broadened its narrative to encompass a larger galactic conflict. Levy explained that Lucasfilm leadership requested incorporating elements tying the film more directly to the broader Star Wars saga, including connections to established characters and events. “It became a much bigger story,” Levy stated. “and at a certain point, I think they felt like, ‘Do we want to do this story now? Or do we want to wait until we have a clearer roadmap for the post-skywalker era?'”
The project, announced in December 2023, was intended to be Levy’s first foray into the Star Wars universe. He had assembled a writing team and begun preliminary work on the script. However, following the release of The Mandalorian and other Disney+ series, Lucasfilm reassessed its film slate, prioritizing projects that aligned with its evolving storytelling strategy.Levy confirmed that Starfighter is currently on hold, with no firm timeline for its potential revival. He remains open to revisiting the project should Lucasfilm decide to move forward, but acknowledges the significant changes that would likely be required.”I loved the story we were telling,” Levy said.”But I also understand the need for a cohesive plan.”
