Shawn Levy's Unique Take on Star Wars: Starfighter with Ryan Gosling
Director Shawn Levy's Fan Approach to Star Wars: Starfighter
Shawn Levy, known for his recent work on Deadpool and Wolverine, is stepping into the director's chair for the highly anticipated Star Wars: Starfighter. At the A Sense of Home NYC Gala on September 23, he humorously described the upcoming film as a small, niche art project, despite its ties to the expansive Star Wars franchise. Levy's enthusiasm for the original material is a fundamental aspect of his directing style.
He maintains a consistent approach, whether navigating the Marvel Cinematic Universe or the Star Wars saga, positioning himself as a fan first. This perspective is crucial for his storytelling in Starfighter, which will introduce a standalone narrative set five years after Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.
A Collaborative Vision with Ryan Gosling
Ryan Gosling stars as Kade Auberon, a jaded pilot assigned to protect a young boy portrayed by Flynn Gray. Beyond acting, Gosling plays a significant role as an executive producer, collaborating closely with Levy and Kathleen Kennedy, the president of Lucasfilm. Levy has commended Gosling for his extensive creative involvement, which goes beyond his performance on screen.
Levy describes Gosling as a comprehensive creative partner, attentive to technical aspects like lighting and production design. This collaborative spirit is expected to be a vital part of the film's evolution. Levy's career, marked by family-friendly films such as Night at the Museum and Cheaper by the Dozen, reflects his commitment to crafting stories that resonate with a wide audience. He believes that creating connections through entertainment is a profound privilege.
This emphasis on storytelling that fosters connections has been a recurring theme in Levy's work, including the acclaimed Netflix series Stranger Things. He appreciates the show's ability to appeal to multiple generations, highlighting the importance of producing content that families can enjoy together. Star Wars: Starfighter is set to hit theaters on May 28, 2027.