Shawn Levy, best known for his work on Stranger Things and the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine, is officially making his mark on a galaxy far, far away. The director is developing a new Star Wars movie, and in a surprising but thrilling twist, Ryan Gosling is reportedly in talks to star as the lead. This announcement isn’t just another casting headline — it signals a bold new creative direction for the Star Wars franchise.
A Bold New Chapter for the Star Wars Universe
According to recent reports, the film is planned as a standalone entry set five to six years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker. That timeline places it in a relatively open stretch of Star Wars continuity — far enough from the Skywalker saga to offer fresh storytelling freedom, yet close enough to retain the emotional weight of the sequel trilogy’s aftermath.
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy confirmed the project is actively in development and positioned within the canonical timeline, giving it weight beyond rumor. Unlike some of the other shelved or indefinitely delayed projects in the Star Wars pipeline, Levy’s film is one of the few that appears to be moving forward steadily.
Why Gosling + Levy Could Be a Winning Combo
The potential casting of Ryan Gosling is both unconventional and exciting. Known for roles in Blade Runner 2049, Drive, La La Land, and Barbie, Gosling brings a versatile acting range that could deliver a layered performance — whether as a new Jedi, a disillusioned warrior, or something entirely unexpected. Gosling has long avoided franchise roles, which makes his interest here especially notable.
Shawn Levy, meanwhile, has quietly built one of Hollywood’s most reliable track records for crowd-pleasing genre entertainment. Beyond his success on Stranger Things, he’s helmed Free Guy, The Adam Project, and is directing Marvel’s Deadpool & Wolverine. His style blends emotional depth with blockbuster energy — exactly the kind of tone Lucasfilm is reportedly chasing to rejuvenate its cinematic brand.
What Makes This Project Different
While many Star Wars announcements have come and gone with little to show for it (Patty Jenkins’ Rogue Squadron, anyone?), Levy’s project has remained in development since 2022. Levy has confirmed that he and longtime collaborator Jonathan Tropper (who penned The Adam Project) have been working on the script, and they’re aiming for something “event-level” but character-driven.
Unlike the tightly interconnected trilogies of the past, Lucasfilm is now pursuing more standalone Star Wars films that expand the universe with new heroes, cultures, and conflicts. That creative freedom may be what convinced both Levy and Gosling to get involved.
What Comes Next
While no official release date has been announced yet, it’s likely this film will follow The Mandalorian & Grogu, which is set to premiere in theaters in May 2026. That puts Levy’s Star Wars movie in position for a potential late 2026 or 2027 release — assuming development continues smoothly.
With fan expectations sky-high and Disney looking to rebuild its theatrical Star Wars momentum, all eyes will be on how Levy and Gosling shape this next chapter. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just intrigued by the pairing, this is one of the most exciting and credible Star Wars projects currently in the pipeline.
Mikey Madison Reportedly Declines Role in the Film
In a surprising twist during the film’s early development phase, Academy Award-winning actress Mikey Madison has reportedly turned down an offer to join Shawn Levy’s Star Wars movie. Madison, fresh off her Oscar win for Anora, was in discussions for a significant supporting role but ultimately passed due to reported disagreements over compensation.
Her departure is notable not just because of her recent acclaim, but also because it underscores the challenges major franchises like Star Wars face in securing top-tier talent amid shifting Hollywood dynamics. Madison is one of several high-profile names—alongside Greta Lee, Jesse Plemons, and Sarah Snook—who have allegedly passed on roles in the project so far. While her decision won’t derail the film, it does hint at the careful negotiations and creative choices happening behind the scenes as Levy and Lucasfilm shape this new chapter in the galaxy.
Key Takeaways
- Shawn Levy will direct a new Star Wars movie with Ryan Gosling in talks for the lead.
- Development began in late 2022 with high industry interest.
- More information about the movie is expected as the project develops.
Shawn Levy And Ryan Gosling’s Collaboration On Star Wars
Shawn Levy is directing a new Star Wars film featuring Ryan Gosling. The movie is in development at Lucasfilm, with Levy’s production company, 21 Laps, taking on a key role alongside the studio.
Origins Of The Project
The collaboration between Shawn Levy and Ryan Gosling came after both had found recent box office success. Levy, recognized for directing “The Adam Project” and the upcoming “Deadpool & Wolverine,” was approached by Lucasfilm to helm a new Star Wars project.
Gosling’s popularity surged after his performance in “Barbie,” which drew attention from various major studios. Reports indicate that Gosling was brought in talks to lead the cast, giving the film instant star power. Together, Levy and Gosling began discussing the direction of the project in 2023, as Lucasfilm looked to expand its film lineup beyond the Skywalker saga.
Several years of development work preceded the current stage of production, signaling a thoughtful approach to casting and story planning. More details will likely emerge as the project moves forward, but the pairing of Levy and Gosling marks a major shift for the Star Wars film series. Fans can follow updates through news sources like The Hollywood Reporter.
Role Of 21 Laps And Lucasfilm
21 Laps, Shawn Levy’s production company, is closely involved in the making of the movie. Known for producing titles like “Stranger Things” and “The Adam Project,” 21 Laps brings experience working with large franchises and high-profile actors. The company is recognized for its collaborative approach to filmmaking, which likely influenced why Lucasfilm chose to partner with Levy.
Lucasfilm oversees all creative direction for Star Wars films. Their role includes script approval, coordination with Disney, and final oversight of story content. By teaming up with 21 Laps, Lucasfilm adds new creative energy while maintaining control over the Star Wars universe.
This partnership allows for innovation without losing the essence of the brand. It also allows for new voices to emerge, both in front of and behind the camera.
Influence Of Past Films
Shawn Levy’s previous movies, such as “The Adam Project,” have shaped how he approaches storytelling. His style blends action with humor, making his films accessible to a wide audience. Audiences saw this blend in “Deadpool,” another project credited to Levy as producer and director.
Ryan Gosling also brings a versatile acting style, proven in both dramas and comedies. His recent role in “Barbie” showed he can balance humor and emotional depth. This is valuable for a Star Wars movie, which needs relatable characters.
Levy and Gosling each have experience working with demanding visual effects and large-scale productions. This background positions them to handle the technical and creative challenges expected from a major Star Wars release. Fans can expect a well-produced, character-driven story rooted in the director’s past work and Gosling’s wide-ranging talent. For more, see details at MovieWeb’s summary.
Development And Production Of The Upcoming Star Wars Movie
Ryan Gosling is set to star in Shawn Levy’s new Star Wars project, which will be a standalone feature. The film marks an important step for the Star Wars franchise, especially given the anticipation surrounding its development, creative team, production schedule, and the influence of Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy.
Screenplay And Creative Team
Shawn Levy, known for directing “Deadpool & Wolverine,” is leading the project. The movie will be a fresh take within the Star Wars universe, unrelated to the main saga, like “Rogue One” or “Solo.” This standalone approach gives the filmmakers more creative flexibility.
The screenplay is being written by Jonathan Tropper, who has previously worked with Levy on projects such as “The Adam Project.” Their prior collaboration suggests a strong creative partnership. With Tropper handling the script, expectations are high for sharp dialogue and engaging characters.
The creative team is aiming for a balance between new ideas and classic Star Wars elements. By bringing in talent with both blockbuster experience and an understanding of storytelling, fans may see a movie that feels exciting and original. According to industry news, the story details are mostly under wraps, but the mix of Tropper’s writing and Levy’s direction has started to build buzz among Star Wars followers.
Production Timeline And Filming Details
Shawn Levy’s Star Wars movie has been in development for about two years. Reports say conversations about casting and pre-production have accelerated recently, with filming likely to begin soon.
If negotiations go as planned, this could become the next Star Wars movie to officially enter production. The schedule is being kept flexible to fit both Gosling’s and Levy’s commitments; however, interest from all sides appears strong.
The project is planned as a standalone entry in the saga, meaning it will not be tied directly to the Skywalker storyline. The creative team is also searching for new locations and unique set designs to set the film apart from previous Star Wars releases. As of now, precise filming dates and locations have not been announced, but fans are watching for updates as development moves forward.
Role Of Kathleen Kennedy
Kathleen Kennedy, longtime president of Lucasfilm, is closely involved as a producer on this project. Her role includes overseeing the script, production choices, and major creative decisions.
Kennedy has a reputation for guiding high-profile projects through Lucasfilm. She has been responsible for bringing in new filmmakers and voices to expand the Star Wars universe. Her leadership will likely keep the project aligned with the franchise’s vision while giving Levy and Tropper room to innovate.
Under Kennedy’s direction, the production team is encouraged to explore new territory within the Star Wars world. She supports the idea of standalone projects as a way to reach new audiences and keep the storyline fresh. Her involvement signals a strong studio commitment to both quality and creative freedom for the filmmakers.
Casting, Storylines, And Place In The Star Wars Universe
Shawn Levy’s upcoming Star Wars movie is drawing attention with reports that Ryan Gosling may take a lead role. With new faces and possible changes to the famous timeline, there is strong interest in how this project fits with the stories fans already know.
Casting Choices And Rumors
According to several reports, Ryan Gosling is in talks for a main part in the film. If he joins, this will be his first appearance in the Star Wars universe. His past work, including standout roles in films like Drive and Barbie, shows he can handle complex and dynamic characters.
Director Shawn Levy is known for working with big-name actors, so more star power could be added. Other possible cast members have not been confirmed, and details remain under wraps. The news about Gosling playing the lead role comes from trusted sources and industry news sites, including Vanity Fair and Variety. Fans are eager to find out whether the cast will have any familiar faces or if the movie will focus on a completely new group of characters.
Potential Connections To The Skywalker Saga
Levy has hinted that his film may be set apart from the main Skywalker saga. So far, there have been no confirmations about ties to Rey, Kylo Ren, or central families that drive the earlier movies. This suggests viewers may not see clear links to characters like Grogu or storylines from The Mandalorian.
The lack of direct connections gives the team freedom to create new arcs, worlds, and conflicts. However, long-time fans will still look for Easter eggs or references that acknowledge the larger Star Wars story. How much the movie will reference the Skywalker saga is still unknown, and this keeps speculation high among fans.
Standalone Versus Trilogy Discussion
Current details suggest that Shawn Levy’s film is meant to be a standalone story, not part of a larger saga. He has stated in interviews that he sees the project as a single, focused film, which is different from the usual Star Wars trilogy format. This could allow for a tighter, more self-contained adventure.
Producing a standalone film lets creators experiment with new tones, characters, and settings, without worrying about setting up sequels. However, the Star Wars brand has a history of turning successful films into larger stories. If Levy’s movie is a hit, plans could change in the future.
For now, everything points to an original, one-off entry in the Star Wars universe, with no immediate plans for follow-ups or a connected trilogy. This approach could attract both longtime fans and newcomers who want a complete story in one film – a rare thing in this galaxy.
Industry Impact, Media Coverage, And Privacy Considerations
Shawn Levy’s upcoming Star Wars film with Ryan Gosling is generating attention because of the director’s previous successes and the famous cast. This project is also bringing up new questions about privacy and data use in film promotions.
Coverage By The Hollywood Reporter And Yahoo
Media interest in the project has been high since it was first reported. While The Hollywood Reporter and Yahoo have not published exclusive coverage as of mid-April 2025, outlets like Variety and Vanity Fair have provided early updates about Levy directing and Gosling’s possible role. Their reporting usually focuses on casting news, potential storylines, and how Levy’s background with “Wolverine” and comedies like “This Is Where I Leave You” might affect the project.
These platforms often mention previous standout performances by Ryan Gosling, as well as Shawn Levy’s experiences working with actors like Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds. Media articles compare this project’s potential impact to how “The Force Awakens,” directed by J.J. Abrams and starring Adam Driver, reenergized the Star Wars universe.
Below is a comparison table summarizing media focus points:
| Platform | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| Variety | Casting, Director’s Experience |
| Vanity Fair | Franchise Expectations, Star Power |
| Hollywood Reporter | Not yet detailed (as of April 2025) |
| Yahoo | Not yet detailed (as of April 2025) |
Comparisons To Other Franchise Productions
This upcoming film is being compared with recent franchise blockbusters. Many observers point out how Shawn Levy’s work with “Deadpool & Wolverine,” starring Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds, might influence the movie’s tone and production style. The anticipation is also linked to Ryan Gosling’s history of strong performances and wide audience appeal.
Media outlets are watching to see if the film will echo other recent Star Wars successes. For example, look at how Abrams rebooted the franchise with a modern approach in “The Force Awakens.” Casting choices and director style have been central to these comparisons, as has the expectation of strong box office returns.
Such comparisons help audiences set expectations and give industry insiders a sense of what might make Levy’s project stand out compared to previous entries.
Privacy, Advertising, And Data Usage In Modern Film Promotion
In today’s film industry, online promotion often relies on personalized ads and detailed audience research. Studios and websites use cookies to collect data about users’ search habits, geolocation information, and even IP addresses. This information helps them deliver more targeted ads and content, measure effectiveness, and develop new services.
Content measurement and audience research are common practices so studios can see what fans respond to and what draws viewers in. Companies ask for consent to use personal data, and users can change their privacy settings to limit tracking activities. Security measures are put in place to authenticate users, prevent spam, and protect sensitive information.
Each website may have its own cookie policy explaining these practices, allowing users to read details about data use and adjust their preferences as needed. Studios are also expected to comply with privacy laws and use collected data responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shawn Levy is working on a new Star Wars movie, and Ryan Gosling is in talks to star in it. Key details about its release, casting, plot, and production are starting to emerge, though many specifics are still under wraps.
What is the release date for Shawn Levy’s Star Wars movie featuring Ryan Gosling?
There is no official release date set yet for Shawn Levy’s Star Wars film. Reports suggest the movie could arrive sooner than expected, but Lucasfilm has not confirmed an exact date at this time. For the most recent updates, visit details from Screen Rant.
Who is cast alongside Ryan Gosling in the upcoming Star Wars movie directed by Shawn Levy?
Besides Ryan Gosling, no other cast members have been officially announced. The project appears to be in early development. Casting news is likely to be shared closer to the start of production.
What is the plot of the new Star Wars film directed by Shawn Levy?
Lucasfilm has not released any plot details about the new Star Wars movie. The storyline, characters, and setting remain undisclosed at this stage. Fans will have to wait for official announcements about the story.
Are there any official trailers or teasers available for the Star Wars project by Shawn Levy and Ryan Gosling?
No trailers or teasers are currently available for this Star Wars film. The project is still in the early phases and has not moved far enough into production for footage to be released.
Which production companies are involved with Shawn Levy’s Star Wars film, and what is the budget?
This Star Wars movie is being developed by Lucasfilm. There are no official details yet about the film’s budget or other production partners.
How does Ryan Gosling’s character fit into the existing Star Wars universe?
No information about Ryan Gosling’s character or his role in the Star Wars universe has been shared. Both his character’s background and connections to the larger story are still unknown.
