Arriving on Disney+ on April 6 with the first two episodes (and six more to follow on a mostly weekly schedule) is ‘Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord’, the latest step in Dave Filoni’s animated adventures set in the galaxy far, far away.
While his recent promotion to joint chief of Lucasfilm means he won’t have quite as much time to play in the ‘Star Wars’ sandbox, Dave Filoni is still enjoying the chance to expand the reach of George Lucas’ creation, this time continuing the story of the former Darth Maul.
By layering in crime thriller genre tropes and adding more to Maul himself, Filoni has delivered another smaller-scale animated success.
Working with Matt Michnovetz to develop the series, Filoni blends the likes of ‘Heat’ with the ‘Star Wars’ milieu for a fun mix that gives Maul fans (yes, we know you’re out there) plenty to enjoy.
And beyond the lead, there are several compelling characters contained within superior scripts.
On the directorial front, supervising director Brad Rau brings a stylish noir touch to the show, while also keeping it of a piece with previous animated outings.
Sam Witwer continues to find interesting new directions to take his character, and has really owned the role. Aside from him, Wagner Moura is good value as hard-bitten police detective Brander Lawson, aided by sidekick droid Two-Boots, voiced by a game Richard Ayoade.
On the villainous side, Filoni continues his obsession with comedy droids, with this show’s MVP being Spybot (David W. Collins), a cackling delight.
Even if you only know Maul from ‘The Phantom Menace’, chances are you will find something to enjoy here –– the action is intense, the characters compelling and the show as a whole fits well into the ‘Star Wars’ universe while also feeling fresh.
‘Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord’ receives 75 out of 100.
What’s the plot of ‘Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord’?
Set after the events of ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars,’ this pulpy adventure finds Maul plotting to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan who could be the apprentice he is seeking to aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.
George Lucas seen at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art panel at Comic-Con International 2025 at San Diego Convention Center on July 27, 2025 in San Diego, California. Photo by Eric Charbonneau / Lucas Museum of Narrative Art via Getty Images.
Preview:
George Lucas made his first trip to the San Diego Comic-Con.
He was on a panel with Guillermo del Toro and designer Doug Chiang.
Queen Latifah was the moderator.
Given his legendary status as an iconic creator of cinematic stalwarts such as the ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Indiana Jones’ movies, it’s perhaps a little shocking that George Lucas hasn’t been to the San Diego Comic-Con.
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All that changed today when Lucas made a rare public appearance and took over Hall H for a panel to celebrate his new Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. He took to the stage with fellow filmmaker Guillermo del Toro and Lucasfilm Executive Designer Director Doug Chiang (who has worked on ‘Star Wars’ and so much more) for a panel moderated by Queen Latifah.
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is a first-of-its-kind institution dedicated to illustrated storytelling across time, cultures, and media.
Co-founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson, the museum’s collection features works by artists including Norman Rockwell, Kadir Nelson, Jessie Willcox Smith, N. C. Wyeth, Beatrix Potter, Judy Baca, Frida Kahlo, and Maxfield Parrish; as well as comic art legends such as Winsor McCay, Jack Kirby, Frank Frazetta, Alison Bechdel, Chris Ware, and R. Crumb, plus photographers Gordon Parks, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Dorothea Lange.
The museum also houses the Lucas Archive, containing models, props, concept art, and costumes from Lucas’s filmmaking career.
What happened at the George Lucas panel?
(L to R) Queen Latifah, George Lucas, Guillermo del Toro and Doug Chiang seen at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art panel at Comic-Con International 2025 at San Diego Convention Center on July 27, 2025 in San Diego, California. Photo by Eric Charbonneau / Lucas Museum of Narrative Art via Getty Images.
Lucas unsurprisingly got a standing ovation as he took the stage to talk up his new museum.
Part of his impetus for building the museum was a place to store some of his own huge art collection.
This is what Lucas had to say about art:
“It’s a temple to the people’s art. Art is more about a connection and emotional connection with the work, not how much it cost or what celebrity did it. I don’t think it’s anything anyone will tell you. If you have emotional connection, it’s art. If you don’t, just move onto the next painting.”
Among the exclusive items hosted at the museum? The very first character drawing of Flash Gordon from 1934, ‘Peanuts’ comic sketches from the 50s & 60s, original drawings from the first ‘Iron Man’ comic and some original ink art of ‘Black Panther’.
For del Toro’s part, he revealed that art his own extensive art collection survived the LA wildfires earlier this year, he’ll be housing a lot of it at the museum.
The panel wrapped up with a sizzle reel narrated by ‘Star Wars’ prequel star Samuel L. Jackson, which previewed some of the prolific works attendees can expect, i.e. General Grievous’ bike and the land speeder from the original ‘Star Wars’.
Many of the ‘Star Wars’ pieces of art, in particular those from concept artist Ralph McQuarrie, will be housed in the cinema gallery, one of 30-40 galleries at the museum.
When will the museum be open?
The George Lucas Museum of Narrative Art doesn’t have a specific opening date yet, but is scheduled to open in 2026 in Los Angeles.
(L to R) Guillermo del Toro, George Lucas, Queen Latifah and Doug Chiang seen at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art panel at Comic-Con International 2025 at San Diego Convention Center on July 27, 2025 in San Diego, California. Photo by Eric Charbonneau / Lucas Museum of Narrative Art via Getty Images.
2025 San Diego Comic-Con runs July 24th-July 27th. Photo: Comic-Con International.
Preview:
San Diego Comic-Con 2025 is taking place at the San Diego Convention Center from July 24th through July 27th.
Neither Marvel nor DC will have studio panels, but there are still plenty of other great film and TV projects being highlighted.
Notable panels include ‘Predator: Badlands’, ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2, ‘The Toxic Avenger’, ‘The Long Walk’, and more.
Legendary filmmaker George Lucas will also be making an appearance on Sunday.
San Diego Comic-Con 2025 is right around the corner, and with Marvel and DC opting to skip out on studio panels this year, it might seem like there is no reason to attend. That, however, could not be further from the truth, as there are still many incredible projects being showcased this year.
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Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are packed to the brim with can’t miss panels, including ‘Predator: Badlands‘, ‘Peacemaker‘ Season 2, ‘The Toxic Avenger‘, and ‘Star Trek’. On Sunday, legendary filmmaker George Lucas will make an appearance at the famed Hall H, alongside Guillermo del Toro, to offer a sneak peek of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.
Peter Dinklage as “Toxie” in the action, comedy, horror film, ‘The Toxic Avenger’, a Cineverse release. Photo courtesy of Yana Blajeva/Legendary Pictures.
‘The Toxic Avenger’ reimagining is taking over Hall H on Thursday July 24th from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. San Diego Comic-Con attendees will get an exclusive first look at the film, but that is not all. Writer and director Macon Blair, Lloyd Kaufman, and cast including Peter Dinklage, Elijah Wood, Jacob Tremblay, and Taylour Paige wil be on hand to discuss behind-the-scenes stories. The panel features a live Q&A, and exclusive footage from the upcoming film.
Synopsis: When a downtrodden janitor, Winston Gooze, is exposed to a catastrophic toxic accident, he’s transformed into a new kind of hero: The Toxic Avenger. Now, Toxie must rise from outcast to savior, taking on ruthless corporate overlords and corrupt forces who threaten his son, his friends, and his community. In a world where greed runs rampant… justice is best served radioactive.
Friday, July 25th
‘The Long Walk’
Mark Hamill at The Major in ‘The Long Walk’. Photo: Lionsgate.
Master storyteller Stephen King’s first novel finally hits the big screen in ‘The Long Walk‘, from visionary director Francis Lawrence (‘The Hunger Games’ franchise films) and adapted by screenwriter JT Mollner (‘Strange Darling‘). Cast and filmmakers will participate in this Hall H panel from 3:00pm to 4:00pm on Friday, July 25th for an in-depth Q&A session and first look at the intense, chilling, and emotional thriller that challenges audiences to confront a haunting question: How far could you go?
Synopsis: Every year, fifty teenage boys meet for an event known throughout the country as “The Long Walk.” Among this year’s chosen crop is sixteen-year-old Ray Garraty. He knows the rules: that warnings are issued if you fall under speed, stumble, sit down. That after three warnings… you get your ticket. And what happens then serves as a chilling reminder that there can be only one winner in the Walk. The one that survives.
‘Predator: Badlands’
Elle Fanning from ‘Predator: Badlands’ at the Disney presentation at CinemaCon 2025 in Las Vegas. Photo: Disney.
Director Dan Trachtenberg (‘Prey‘) joins stars Elle Fanning (‘A Complete Unknown‘) and Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi(‘Upright’) immediately following the panel for ‘The Long Walk’ in Hall H for an exclusive look at ‘Predator: Badlands’, the latest chapter in the legendary franchise. Hear firsthand stories from the set, insights into the film’s new setting and characters, and get a sneak peek at never-before-seen footage.
Synopsis: The film is set in the future on a remote planet, where a young Predator (Schuster-Koloamatangi), outcast from his clan, finds an unlikely ally in Thia (Fanning) and embarks on a treacherous journey in search of the ultimate adversary.
After learning all about ‘Predator: Badlands’, stay in your Hall H seats and step into the Grid as director Joachim Rønning (‘Maleficent: Mistress of Evil‘) and the cast of ‘TRON: Ares‘ take the stage to discuss the highly anticipated next installment in the Tron saga. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, get character insights, and have an exclusive first look at footage from the film.
Synopsis: A highly sophisticated Program called Ares is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, marking humankind’s first encounter with A.I. beings.
Saturday, July 26th
‘Project Hail Mary’
Ryan Gosling in ‘Project Hail Mary’. Photo: Amazon MGM Studios.
Phil Lord (director and producer), Christopher Miller (director and producer), Ryan Gosling (actor and producer), Drew Goddard (screenwriter and executive producer), and Andy Weir (author and producer) give an exclusive first look at the most anticipated sci-fi thriller movie event of 2026 in Hall H on Saturday, July 26th from 2:15pm to 3:15pm.
Synopsis: Based on the bestselling novel of the same name, ‘Project Hail Mary‘ follows a science teacher who wakes up on a spaceship, lightyears from home, with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission: to solve the riddle of the mysterious substance causing the sun to die out. He must call on his scientific knowledge and unorthodox ideas to save everything on Earth from extinction . . . but an unexpected friendship means he may not have to do it alone.
Peacmaker Season 2
(L to R) John Cena and Danielle Brooks in ‘Peacemaker’ season 2. Photo: Jessica Miglio/Max.
The HBO Max series ‘Peacemaker’, from DC Studios and Warner Bros. Television, returns for a highly anticipated second season on August 21. Fans that attend the SDCC 2025 panel, which immediately follows the ‘Project Hail Mary’ panel, will be treated to exclusive sneak peek footage from the new season and a conversation with James Gunn (co-head of DC Studios, executive producer, writer, director) and actors John Cena (Peacemaker, executive producer), Danielle Brooks (Adebayo), Jennifer Holland (Harcourt), Freddie Stroma (Vigilante), Steve Agee (Economos), Frank Grillo (Rick Flag Sr.), Sol Rodriguez (Sasha Bordeaux), and Tim Meadows (Langston Fleury).
Synopsis: The continuing story of Peacemaker – a compellingly vainglorious man who believes in peace at any cost, no matter how many people he has to kill to get it – in the aftermath of the events of ‘The Suicide Squad‘.
Sunday, July 27th
Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
The perfect way to close out San Diego Comic-Con 2025 is to attend the final Hall H panel at 11:00am on Sunday, July 27th. Legendary filmmaker George Lucas, Academy Award-winning director Guillermo del Toro, and Academy Award-winning artist Doug Chiang explore the power of illustrated storytelling and offer a sneak peek of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, moderated by Grammy, Emmy, Academy Award-nominated, and Golden Globe Award-winning artist, Queen Latifah.
Sam Witwer as Darth Maul in ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’. Photo: Lucasfilm.
Preview:
Darth Maul is getting his own ‘Star Wars’ animated series.
Sam Witwer is back to voice the character.
‘Maul: Shadow Lord’ will be on Disney+ next year.
Despite being sliced in half and falling down a shaft following his defeat at the hands of Ewan McGregor’s Obi-Wan Kenobi, the spiky-headed, devil-faced Darth Maul has enjoyed a long post-movie life, resurrected more than once (and dying again a few times, including a comic book rematch with Obi-Wan that ends with Maul’s horns cut off and a blaster bolt to the head from Owen Lars).
Indeed, Witwer has made quire the career of providing the growly tones for the character, voicing him in animated series ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ and ‘Star Wars Rebels.’
So we should perhaps not be too surprised that he’s now scored his own series, set to be a variety show format where he introduces musical acts from across the galaxy far, far away. All right no, it’s not that. But we would watch that.
Instead, Witwer took the take at Star Wars Celebration 2025 Japan to announce the new series, which will be called ‘Maul: Shadow Lord’ and follows the further adventures of the character’s dodgy dealings in the criminal underworld.
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What’s the story of ‘Maul: Shadow Lord’?
Sam Witwer as Darth Maul in ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’. Photo: Lucasfilm.
The new show is set in the wake of the events of the final season of ‘The Clone Wars.’ Maul tries to rebuild his defunct Shadow Collective criminal syndicate into what will eventually become ‘Solo’s Crimson Dawn on a planet unknown to the Empire, while taking an apprentice, Talon.
A somewhat deep pull from the wider ‘Star Wars’ mythology, George Lucas featured the Twi’lek Darth Talon in his unused treatments of the sequel trilogy that were put aside when Disney went in its own direction for the new movies.
She was to have been the apprentice of Darth Maul, the two serving as the new trilogy’s primary two villains.
As reported in a ‘Star Wars’ Archives tome, Lucas reportedly commented:
“She was the new Darth Vader and most of the action was with her. In early versions, she would have corrupted the character who became Kylo Ren, and in later versions they were combined into the same character.”
And that wasn’t the only Lucas idea for the character –– he briefly considered revealing that wheezing ‘Revenge of the Sith’ cyborg General Grievous was secretly a resurrected Darth Maul in disguise.
What else is happening with small-screen ‘Star Wars’?
On stage at Celebration, Lucasfilm Chief Creative Officer Dave Filoni confirmed that production on ‘Star Wars: Ahsoka’s second season is gearing up, with Carrie Beck, Lucasfilm’s Vice President of Animation and Live-Action Development, currently in the UK preparing for filming to begin.
We can expect a third season of animated series ‘Star Wars: Visions’ this year (word on a release date might be coming soon at Celebration) and we’re still hoping for a second run of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,’ though nothing has been announced about that yet.
‘Maul: Shadow Lord’s Sam Witwer at Star Wars Celebration 2025. Photo: Lucasfilm.
In addition to his duties with the ‘Star Wars’ galaxy, including supplying additional voices to several of the main ‘Star Wars’ sequel trilogy movies, the aforementioned ‘Skeleton Crew’ and ‘Star Wars: Ahsoka,’ and a host of other animated ‘Wars’ work, Witwer has forged quite the career in front of the camera and as a voiceover artist.
Landing on Disney+ on June 4th with its first two episodes, ‘The Acolyte’ sees ‘Russian Doll’ co-creator and showrunner Leslye Headland given the chance to put her own stamp on that galaxy far, far away. And based on the initial episodes provided to press, has come up with something that hews more towards the nuance of ‘Andor’ than some of the recent bloated mythology powering small-screen ‘Star Wars’.
‘The Acolyte’ boasts some impressive performances from an even more diverse cast that the likes of ‘The Mandalorian’, and –– so far, at least –– is one of the better Disney+ offerings.
After the galaxy of space fantasy stories originated by George Lucas came soaring back –– this time to small screens –– under guidance of Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni with ‘The Mandalorian’, we’ve mostly been spending time in their shared world of post-‘Return of the Jedi’ adventures featuring the bounty hunter and his merchandise-motherlode companion Grogu (AKA “Baby Yoda”).
There have certainly been detours elsewhere (most notably Tony Gilroy’s darker, deeper ‘Andor’, which followed the title character (played by Diego Luna) in the years before ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’, and now, via Headland, this latest effort. Though it feels a lot like classic ‘Star Wars’ –– there are Jedis, lightsabers and droids everywhere –– the new show also has a grown-up, more nuanced approach to the story, letting you ponder the nature of good, evil and the use of the Force in its moments of stillness broken by impressive fight scenes.
Leslye Headland is certainly not the first person you would expect to be handed (or want to make) a new ‘Star Wars’ series, but that definitely works in its favor. The writer/director best known for Netflix series ‘Russian Doll’ and movies such as ‘Bachelorette’ and ‘Sleeping with Other People.’ But it’s clear from this that she also brings a passion for intense, and interesting ‘Star Wars’ to the new show.
Working alongside a writing team that also includes Jason Micallef, Kor Adana, Charmaine DeGrate, Jasmyne Flournoy, Jocelyn Bioh, Claire Kiechel, Jen Richards, Eileen Shim and Cameron Squires, she has come up with a story that focuses on Amandla Stenberg’s dual role as sister Osha and Mae, one a former Jedi recruit, the other burning with revenge against the order. We won’t go too much further into the plot so as to leave the narrative spoilers intact, but the series in its early going dials down into a very personal story of pain and redemption and tackles the idea of the Jedi in a fresh new way.
Setting the story when the order is at its height and peace is seemingly prosperous in the galaxy, allows for exploring the basic concepts of ‘Star Wars’ with appealing thought and emotion. As one character says, “it’s not about good or bad. It’s about power, and who gets to utilize it.” While the idea of people feeling less than thrilled with the Jedi is something that has been touched on before, this is a more complicated story that is still easy to grasp.
Headland also directs a couple of episodes, working here with some regular collaborators including Hanelle M. Culpepper, Alex Garcia Lopez and Kogonada, and the show is a visual treat, eschewing an overuse of volume work for plenty of practical sets and location shooting that, while it doesn’t rival ‘Andor’ for tactility, is still a great watch.
Amandla Stenberg carries the emotional load of the series, playing twin sisters whose lives diverge in very different ways. They bring real depth to the characters, making for an engaging lead and guide through the story.
The ‘Squid Games’ veteran is also given the chance to play a complicated character, as his Sol is a Jedi master burdened with guilt and looking for a chance to vanquish the ghosts of his past. He brings a deep well of feeling to the character and is always watchable.
Keen, seen in ‘Logan’ and HBO’s ‘His Dark Materials’, is a Padawan who serves alongside Sol. Keen brings her to life with charm and bright-eyed energy, and a sprit that makes her more than just a robed warrior.
We’d also give nods to Manny Jacinto as Qimir, a moral-free type who helps Mae on her vengeful quest and has ties to the mysterious master who has helped her hone her Force-wielding skills. ‘The Good Place’ star is always entertaining and brings goofiness tinged with darkness to the screen.
And then there is Jodie Turner-Smith, playing a role we won’t discuss at this juncture, but offers her usual presence to the role, stillness balanced with power.
Finally, Carrie-Anne Moss is one of the headliners, but so far in the series hasn’t had too much chance to make an impact beyond an initial cool fight scene.
The “anti-woke” brigade and those who whine about any differences ruining their childhood experience of ‘Star Wars’ might not love what they see, but everyone else should find something to enjoy.
‘The Acolyte’ works on different levels, at once channeling old school ‘Star Wars’ while offering new viewpoints on traditional stories. If this and ‘Andor’ are what happens when Lucasfilm ventures outside of the usual channels for their trips to that galaxy, then long may they continue to experiment.
‘The Acolyte’: receives 8.5 out of 10 stars.
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What’s the story of ‘The Acolyte’?
In ‘The Acolyte’, An investigation into a shocking crime spree pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues emerge, they travel down a dark path where sinister forces reveal all is not what it seems…
Sigourney Weaver’s in talks for ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’.
Her role is a mystery for now.
Jon Favreau is directing the movie.
With ‘Star Wars’ seemingly ready to put that galaxy far, far away back on the big screen via a variety of movies in development, the big one leading the charge comes from the small screen: Jon Favreau’s ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’.
While much of the movie remains shrouded in secrecy, we do know –– via The InSneider –– that sci-fi stalwart Sigourney Weaver is in talks for a role.
The actor, a veteran of genre movies such as the ‘Alien’ franchise, ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Avatar’ looks set to add ‘Star Wars’ to the list.
The big announcement of the movie offered up no details on what the plot will be, but you have to figure it’ll continue the story of the characters’ journey from the show –– including Mando’s ongoing struggle with his cultural legacy and Grogu’s increasing Force powers.
Plus there are plenty of dangling plot threads just waiting to be expanded or tied up in a big screen outing.
We don’t yet know who else is behind the movie, but surely Dave Filoni –– Favreau’s creative partner in all things ‘Star Wars’ –– has had a hand in the script.
Jon Favreau attends the panel for “The Mandalorian” series at Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California on May 28, 2022. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney).
Here’s Favreau’s statement on the new movie:
“I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created. The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting.”
“Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into ‘Star Wars’ two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.”
What else is in development for big screen ‘Star Wars’?
(L to R) Dave Filoni, Daisy Ridley and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.
While it appears the Mando movie is flying into first position, we do know that Dave Filoni is still putting the pieces together for his own film, while one that continues the story of Rey (Daisy Ridley) is on the way from director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and writer Steven Knight, due in 2027.
And then there’s James Mangold’s film, which explores the origins of the Jedi and early force users and is awaiting a release date.
We’d guess that while Filoni (who was recently promoted to Chief Creative Officer at Lucasfilm) is still going full speed ahead on his movie, he’s also been busy figuring out a second season of ‘Ahsoka’, which may well lead to his big screen outing.
When will ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ be in theaters?
Lucasfilm has yet to confirm a release date, but a 2024 shoot points to a potential return for ‘Star Wars’ Christmas premieres in 2025.
‘The Mandalorian’ season 3 starring Pedro Pascal premieres March 1st on Disney+.
The trailer for Disney+ series ‘Star Wars: Tales of the Empire’ has landed.
Morgan Elsbeth and former Jedi Barriss Offee are the focus.
‘Star Wars: Tales of the Empire’ will be with us on May 4th.
Back in 2022, we followed the earlier adventures of Ahsoka Tano and other warriors for the forces (or The Force) of good in the ‘Star Wars’ universe via ‘Tales of the Jedi’, created by recently minted Lucasfilm creative overlord Dave Filoni.
He’s back with a follow-up, and this time, he’s digging into darker corners of that galaxy far, far away. Because the next animated anthology series to happen along on Disney+ is ‘Star Wars: Tales of the Empire’.
As you might predict from the title, we’re now following the stories of some of the baddies within the universe George Lucas created a long time ago.
‘Tales of the Empire’ is described as is a six-episode journey into the fearsome Galactic Empire through the eyes of two warriors on divergent paths, set during different eras.
After losing everything, young Morgan Elsbeth navigates the expanding Imperial world toward a path of vengeance, while former Jedi Barriss Offee does what she must to survive a rapidly changing galaxy. The choices they make will define their destinies.
While those two are the focus, we can expect to see interactions with notable baddies including blue-hued Grand Admiral Thrawn, wheezy robo-menace General Grievous, and some masked guy who is apparently A Big Deal within the Empire… We want to say, Dave, is it? Dave Vader? Anyway, we’re sure it’ll come to us.
From the looks of it, the new series will be filling in some background for Elsbeth in particular, who cropped up in ‘Ahsoka’.
Who is Voicing the Characters of ‘Star Wars: Tales of the Empire’?
Alongside Filoni (who created, wrote and is supervising director here), the creative team includes producers Athena Yvette Portillo and Carrie Beck, plus co-executive producers Josh Rimes and Alex Spotswood.
When will ‘Star Wars” Tales of the Empire’ be on Disney+?
‘Star Wars: Tales of the Empire’ has been scheduled for the most suitable galactic date imaginable… May the 4th. Not really, surprising, is it? All six episodes will arrive at once.
Martin Scorsese, with his long, successful career, many superb movies and avowed advocacy for both classic and modern cinema, has earned the right to his opinion about the medium.
And he has been vocal in the past about his issues with the movie industry’s focus on superheroes and their associated genre, with billions spent on films from the likes of Marvel and DC at the expense of other output.
Now, sitting down with GQ in advance of his next release, ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’, he’s back on the subject, voicing his concerns about young audiences being indoctrinated into thinking that costumed heroes are the only game in town.
Scorsese on comic book movies as “manufactured content”
(L to R) Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, and Robert Downey Jr. in ‘The Avengers.’ Photo: Courtesy of Marvel Studios.
Here’s what the iconic filmmaker had to say about comic book and other movies:
“The danger there is what it’s doing to our culture. Because there are going to be generations now that think movies are only those —that’s what movies are. I do think that the manufactured content isn’t really cinema.”
And this was his concern about the content, not the people creating it:
“What I mean is that it’s manufactured content. It’s almost like AI making a film. And that doesn’t mean that you don’t have incredible directors and special effects people doing beautiful artwork. But what does it mean? What do these films, what will it give you? Aside from a kind of consummation of something and then eliminating it from your mind, your whole body, you know? So, what is it giving you?”
Martin Scorsese promotes the upcoming film ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ during the Paramount Pictures presentation during CinemaCon, the official convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners, at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on April 27, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo by Gabe Ginsberg/WireImage.
According to the director, the response is to have filmmakers who make other types of movies “fight back”:
“Which means that we have to then fight back stronger. And it’s got to come from the grassroots level. It’s gotta come from the filmmakers themselves. And you’ll have, you know, the Safdiebrothers, and you’ll have Chris Nolan, you know what I mean? And hit ’em from all sides. Hit ’em from all sides, and don’t give up. Let’s see what you got. Go out there and do it. Go reinvent. Don’t complain about it. But it’s true because we’ve got to save cinema.”
While we’re in complete agreement that cinema needs a boost, particularly in the wake of the pandemic and the strikes, and the fact that many of the studios have poured their resources into the superhero genre (because, partly thanks to Marvel, it has been hugely successful, generating billions of dollars at the box office and beyond), it’s perhaps not as simple as that.
Saying that audiences will begin to think that superhero movies are all that is out there doesn’t match up with history –– after all, there was a time when gangsters were dominating cinema. And musicals. And for years, Westerns were massive, but rarely produced these days (they’ve moved to TV with the likes of ‘Yellowstone’).
The age of the superhero will pass too –– we’ve already seen signs that the genre is not as popular as it once was, on screens big and small.
And while Scorsese spotlights the likes of Christopher Nolan and the Safdie brothers, let’s not forget that Nolan directed threeBatmanmovies (and produced others in the DC universe) and Benny Safdie has made acting appearances in the likes of the ‘Star Wars’ universe.
Also, though it’s totally true that younger audiences in particular shouldn’t go thinking that comic book movies, there is something to be said for them serving as gateways to other genres and cinematic focuses.
After all, haven’t the likes of Scorsese contemporaries such as George Lucas commented on the genre outings that helped get them into moviemaking in the first case? No one wants to watch ‘Flash Gordon’ movies all the time, but they helped inspire some very popular directors.
Didn’t Scorsese himself first get into movies by watching genre material? Unless at age six he was watching long, Polish, black and white dramas set during medieval times.
Who is to say that a young person watching the likes of a Marvel, DC or other offering won’t go on to make a cinematic masterpiece, full of drama and consequence? Yes, they should also be watching work by the likes of Nolan, the Safdies, Greta Gerwig, Wes Anderson and Scorsese himself, but if their interest is sparked does it really matter where they get their start?
Finally, while there are many sub-par comic book and sci-fi efforts (as there are in any genre), it feels disingenuous to suggest that nothing from the genre can have an impact: witness the cultural effect of something like ‘Black Panther’ or the audacious scope of ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Endgame’, both of which delivered giant emotional moments and represented the culmination of years of carefully crafted storylines with connected characters and movies.
Still, we will never disagree with the notion that Scorsese has a lot of value when it comes to talking about cinema in general.
(L to R) Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon,’ coming soon to Apple TV+.
Adapted from David Grann’s bestseller by Scorsese and Eric Roth and based on a true story, ‘Flower Moon’ is set in Oklahoma in the 1920s when oil brought a fortune to the Osage Nation, who became some of the richest people in the world overnight. The wealth immediately attracted white interlopers, who manipulated, extorted, and stole as much Osage money as they could before resorting to murder.
‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ will be in theaters globally on October 20th before eventually arriving on Apple TV+.
(L to R) Lily Gladstone and Martin Scorsese in ‘Killers of the Flower Moon,’ coming soon to Apple TV+.
Indiana Jones is one of the most beloved characters in cinematic history!
Ever since the character, created by George Lucas and played by Harrison Ford, was first introduction in the unforgettable opening sequence of 1981’s ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark,’ which was directed by Steven Spielberg, Indiana Jones has become a staple in pop-culture.
In honor of Indy’s new and possibly final adventure, ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,’ which was directed by James Mangold and opens in theaters on June 28th, Moviefone is ranking every Indiana Jones movie ever made, including the latest.
(L to R) Shia LaBeouf as Mutt Williams, Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones and Karen Allen as Marion Ravenwood in ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.’
Set during the Cold War, the Soviets, led by sword-wielding Irina Spalko (Cate Blanchett), are in search of a crystal skull which has supernatural powers related to a mystical Lost City of Gold. Indy (Harrison Ford) is coerced to head to Peru at the behest of a young man (Shia LaBeouf) whose friend, and Indy’s colleague, Professor Oxley (John Hurt) has been captured for his knowledge of the skull’s whereabouts.
Finding himself in a new era, approaching retirement, Indy (Harrison Ford) wrestles with fitting into a world that seems to have outgrown him. But as the tentacles of an all-too-familiar evil return in the form of an old rival (Mads Mikkelsen), Indy must don his hat and pick up his whip once more to make sure an ancient and powerful artifact doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
(L to R) Kate Capshaw as Wilhelmina “Willie” Scott, Ke Huy Quan as Short Round and Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in ‘Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.’
After arriving in India, Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) is asked by a desperate village to find a mystical stone. He agrees – and stumbles upon a secret cult plotting a terrible plan in the catacombs of an ancient palace.
(L to R) Sean Connery as Henry Jones, Sr. and Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.’
In 1938, an art collector appeals to eminent archaeologist Dr. Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) to embark on a search for the Holy Grail. Indy learns that a medieval historian has vanished while searching for it, and the missing man is his own father, Dr. Henry Jones Sr. (Sean Connery). He sets out to rescue his father by following clues in the old man’s notebook, which his father had mailed to him before he went missing. Indy arrives in Venice, where he enlists the help of a beautiful academic, Dr. Elsa Schneider (Alison Doody), along with Marcus Brody (Denholm Elliott) and Sallah (John Rhys-Davies). Together they must stop the Nazis from recovering the power of eternal life and taking over the world!
Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones in ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark.’
When Dr. Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) – the tweed-suited professor who just happens to be a celebrated archaeologist – is hired by the government to locate the legendary Ark of the Covenant, he finds himself up against the entire Nazi regime.
With Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni overseeing the ‘Mandalorian’ expanded small screen universe, the company has naturally used the success of that first show to build out others, some created by the main duo, some by different creative teams.
There were new details and looks at a variety of shows, so here’s what was talked about…
In production before any of the other series spotlighted today, the series following the further adventures of the Togruta from the planet Shili, a Padawan turned Jedi known as Ahsoka Tano had the most to show off, including a trailer that is now online.
Led by Filoni behind the scenes, the series follows the former Jedi knight Ahsoka Tano as she investigates an emerging threat to a vulnerable galaxy –– specifically Grand Admiral Thrawn, a villain created by Timothy Zahn for his novel series. He’s already in screen canon thanks to appearances on Filoni’s animated series ‘Star Wars Rebels’ and will now be live-action, though his casting as yet to be announced.
Also making the leap from ‘Rebels’ (since Ashoka also appeared on that show) are Sabine Wren (Natasha Liu Bordizzo), Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) and cranky droid Chopper, with the promise of others. It’s worth noting that another Rebels regular, Garazeb “Zeb” Orrelios showed up in one scene of last week’s ‘The Mandalorian’.
“It was natural he would make the transition to live action,” Kathleen Kennedy said of Filoni on stage. “He has done a spectacular job.” Favreau concurred: “He cares deeply. He poured his heart and soul into it. Dave is unique in that he doesn’t ever squash your inspiration or idea but finds a way to fit it in, to keep it in the tradition that George Lucas started.” Dawson, for her part, said she had “so many pinch me moments” making the show. “Because if this does well, maybe we’ll get a second season. It’s up to y’all!” she told the 4,500-strong crowd.
The trailer is stacked with action, primarily Ahsoka showing off her trademark double lightsaber skills, plus plenty of starships dogfighting.
The pair have come up with a series set around the same time as ‘The Mandalorian’, which follows the journey of four kids who make a mysterious discovery on their seemingly safe home planet, then get lost in a strange and dangerous galaxy. Finding their way home — and meeting unlikely allies and enemies — will be a greater adventure than they ever imagined.
Jude Law stars alongside younger actors Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Kyriana Kratter and Robert Timothy Smith and Ryan Kiera Armstrong. There’s no word yet on when the show will land on Disney+.
‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ will be premiering on Disney+ in 2023.
‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’
‘The Acolyte’ promises to take viewers into a galaxy of shadowy secrets and emerging dark-side powers in the final days of the High Republic era. A former Padawan reunites with her Jedi Master to investigate a series of crimes but discovers the forces they confront are more sinister than they ever anticipated.
Series creator Leslye Headland wowed the crowd with a sneak peek at the upcoming show. Headland arrived on stage, escorted by Kelnacca, and previewed footage from the mystery-thriller series alongside several of the stars.
With production underway now, the series won’t hit Disney+ until next year, but that still is likely to be ahead of the new run of another big series set in the ‘Star Wars’ galaxy…
Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte.’
‘Star Wars: Andor’
There was also word from Team ‘Andor,’ with showrunner Tony Gilroy joined by stars Diego Luna, Adria Arjona, Kyle Soller, Denise Gough, Genevieve O’Reilly, Andy Serkis, Muhannad Bahair and Joplin Sibtain to talk about the successful first season and preview footage from the second and final run of 12 episodes, which have yet to schedule a release date on Disney+.
Oh, and for fans of the show that started it all, there was naturally a ‘Mandalorian’ treat, as the next episode of the series was shown on the big screen for fans.
There is a lot to look forward to on the TV front, and, unlike the big movie announcements, we can be reasonably assured they will all hit screens. Stay tuned for more from the event as it unfolds.
The cast of ‘Andor’ at Star Wars Celebration 2023.
