Moviefone Editorial

Tag: Star Wars

  • Rory McCann to Replace Ray Stevenson in ‘Ahsoka’

    (Left) Rory McCann in 'Game of Thrones' season 8. Photo: Helen Sloan/HBO. (Right) Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson) in Lucasfilm's 'Ahsoka,' exclusively on Disney+. ©2023 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (Left) Rory McCann in ‘Game of Thrones’ season 8. Photo: Helen Sloan/HBO. (Right) Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Ahsoka,’ exclusively on Disney+. ©2023 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Preview:

    • Rory McCann is joining the cast of ‘Star Wars: Ahsoka.’
    • He’ll inherit the role of Baylan Skoll from the late Ray Stevenson.
    • Rosario Dawson plays the title role.

    Fans of genre actors and anyone who enjoyed the work of charismatic Northern Irish actor Ray Stevenson were stunned at his untimely death last year at the age of 58.

    Related Article: ‘Punisher: War Zone’ and ‘Thor’ Actor Ray Stevenson Dies at Age 58

    Stevenson, who appeared in movies such as ‘Punisher: War Zone’ and the first three ‘Thor’ outings, had been busy promoting his role as former Jedi Baylan Skoll in ‘Star Wars: Ahsoka,’ including an appearance at Star Wars Celebration in April that year.

    His role as Baylan Skoll went on to receive great acclaim, the praise tinged with sadness that he wouldn’t be able to return should ‘Ahsoka’ score a second season.

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    Executive producer Dave Filoni said this about Stevenson’s role:

    “I think he would’ve been over the moon. The big regret here is that he didn’t get to experience that. I’m glad he was at Star Wars Celebration with us, that he got to see the trailer and get a taste of that from the fans. And they’ve been nothing but wonderful about Ray and the character.”

    ‘Ahsoka’ was indeed renewed for a second batch of episodes and naturally, speculation has been whether Skoll –– who had been set up to play a key role in the story going forward would be re-cast, or if some way would be found to change the plotline.

    Now, according to reporter Jeff Sneider, the plan is for someone to step into the role. That someone is ‘Game of Thrones’ actor Rory McCann, who became known for playing the hulking Sandor Clegane (AKA the Hound), one of Westeros’ most lethal fighters.

    Though McCann stands three inches taller than Stevenson did, it’s not hard to imagine him playing the role of the conflicted, ambitious warrior.

    He joins a cast that includes Rosario Dawson (as the title character of Ahsoka Tano), Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Lars Mikkelsen.

    Where else have I seen Rory McCann?

    Rory McCann in 'Game of Thrones' season 7. Photo: Helen Sloan/HBO.
    Rory McCann in ‘Game of Thrones’ season 7. Photo: Helen Sloan/HBO.

    In addition to that ‘Thrones’ role, McCann has been seen in movies such as ‘Gladiator II,’ ‘The Damned,’ ‘Jumanji: The Next Level,’ and ‘Hot Fuzz.’

    He’s most recently worked on action thriller ‘Tornado,’ which is now in post-production.

    On the small screen, McCann’s appearances include as Megatron in ‘Transformers: Earthspark,’ Duke Vedmire in ‘The Legend of Vox Machina’ and The Bird Master in ‘The Irregulars.’

    What else is in development for ‘Star Wars’ on big and small screens?

    Director James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.
    (L to R) Director James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.

    While ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ 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 in development from director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy but appears to keep hitting stumbling blocks and has been removed from the schedule for now.

    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.

    Here’s what Mangold recently said about the movie, currently working titled ‘Dawn of the Jedi’:

    “The Star Wars movie would be taking place 25,000 years before any known ‘Star Wars’ movies takes [sic] place. It’s an area and a playground that I’ve always [wanted to explore] and that I was inspired by as a teenager. I’m not that interested in being handcuffed by so much lore at this point that it’s almost immovable, and you can’t please anybody.”

    We’d guess that while Filoni (who promoted earlier this year to Chief Creative Officer at Lucasfilm) is still going full speed ahead on his movie, he’s also been busy figuring out this second season of ‘Ahsoka.’

    Here’s what he said about that:

    “I’m so well into that as well… I’ve been writing it, and I’m still the single writer on it, and so I’ve been enjoying doing that, but it’s a challenge, of course, and working some of these arcs through has been a challenge and making sure it’s all going to come out in a way that I think is exciting for fans. I know that they’re interested in where some of the things I developed in Season One. I’m pretty happy with it… Love working with Rosario [Dawson], so I can’t wait to get back to that.”

    When will ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2 land on Disney+

    ‘Ahsoka’s second season does not have a release date yet, partly because it has yet to kick off production. That is expected this spring.

    Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Ahsoka,' exclusively on Disney+. ©2023 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Baylan Skoll (Ray Stevenson) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Ahsoka,’ exclusively on Disney+. ©2023 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    List of ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy ‘Star Wars’ Movies On Amazon

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  • ‘The Bear’s Jeremy Allen White Joins ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’

    (Left) Male Actor in a Comedy Series, Jeremy Allen White, 'The Bear' 30th Screen Actors Guild Awards, Show, Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California, USA - 24 Feb 2024. Credit: Photo by Christopher Polk/Shutterstock for SAG. (Right) The Mandalorian (Pedro Pascal) and the Child in 'The Mandalorian,' season two, exclusively on Disney+.
    (Left) Male Actor in a Comedy Series, Jeremy Allen White, ‘The Bear’ 30th Screen Actors Guild Awards, Show, Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California, USA – 24 Feb 2024. Credit: Photo by Christopher Polk/Shutterstock for SAG. (Right) The Mandalorian (Pedro Pascal) and the Child in ‘The Mandalorian,’ season two, exclusively on Disney+.

    Preview:

    • ‘The Bear’s Jeremy Allen White has a role in ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu.’
    • Pedro Pascal returned to star in the movie.
    • Jon Favreau directed the film.

    While production has now wrapped on the next ‘Star Wars’ movie, spin-off ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu,’ there is still news to report on the film.

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    With series co-creator Jon Favreau calling the shots, the movie sees the return of Pedro Pascal’s bounty hunter and his adorable green sidekick Grogu for more adventures in that galaxy far, far away.

    Now, according to Jeff Sneider, we know that ‘The Bear’s leading man Jeremy Allen White will be part of the movie, providing the voice of Rotta the Hutt.

    What’s the story of ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’?

    'The Mandalorian' Season 4 Concept Art courtesy of Lucasfilm Ltd. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    ‘The Mandalorian’ Season 4 Concept Art courtesy of Lucasfilm Ltd. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    Who is Rotta the Hutt?

    Jabba the Hutt in 'Return of the Jedi.' Photo: Lucasfilm.
    Jabba the Hutt in ‘Return of the Jedi.’ Photo: Lucasfilm.

    As his name suggests, Rotta –– original full name Rotta the Huttlet –– is the son of ‘Return of the Jedi’s sluglike crime boss Jabba.

    Created by Dave Filoni, he made his ‘Star Wars’ debut in the ‘Clone Wars’ movie, there voiced by David Acord.

    Nicknamed “Pedunkee Mufkin” (translated as Punky Muffin) by his father and also nicknamed “Stinky” by Ahsoka Tano, was a male Hutt and the son of Jabba the Hutt.

    During the Clone Wars, he was secretly kidnapped by the Confederacy of Independent Systems, which was orchestrated by Count Dooku with help from Ziro, Rotta’s great-uncle. The plot was meant to discredit the Jedi Order and scuttle negotiations between the Galactic Republic and the Hutts, but the Jedi were able to rescue him.

    He was later kidnapped and rescued again. We do have to wonder what fate will befall him in the new movie, but the choice of White to provide his voice points to him being more of a grown character this time around.

    Who else is in ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’?

    Sigourney Weaver as Hildy Good in Roadside Attractions' 'The Good House.'
    Sigourney Weaver as Hildy Good in Roadside Attractions’ ‘The Good House.’

    A lot about the film is still wrapped in secrecy, but alongside Pascal (and now White, at least via a recording booth), we know that Sigourney Weaver is in the cast.

    Deadline is also now reporting that Jonny Coyne will be reprising his relatively small role of Imperial warlord, who is part of the Shadow Council working with Giancarlo Esposito’s Moff Gideon.

    He’ll likely have a bigger part to play in the movie, especially since Gideon was sidelined at the end of the most recent season of the show.

    Related Article: ‘Alien’s Sigourney Weaver in Talks to Join ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’

    What has been said about the new movie?

    (L to R) Dave Filoni, Chief Creative Officer, Lucasfilm and Jon Favreau appears at the Disney Entertainment Showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California on August 09, 2024. Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney.
    (L to R) Dave Filoni, Chief Creative Officer, Lucasfilm and Jon Favreau appears at the Disney Entertainment Showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California on August 09, 2024. 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.”

    And this is what Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy said:

    “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.”

    And Filoni recently told Extra about working on the movie:

    “I’m very excited about it as well. Jon and I had a great time working on that, as we always do. It was great seeing Grogu. He’s become such a star, and it’s amazing how it’s evolved, what we can do now with the puppetry compared to Season One and where we are today in a film working with the team which I worked quite a bit with them on the puppetry. Legacy effects did a fantastic job, and what a wonderful little creation Grogu is.”

    What else is in development for big screen ‘Star Wars’?

    (L to R) Director James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.
    (L to R) Director James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.

    While 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 in development from director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy but appears to keep hitting stumbling blocks and has been removed from the schedule for now.

    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 promoted earlier this year 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.’

    Here’s what he said about that:

    “I’m so well into that as well… I’ve been writing it, and I’m still the single writer on it, and so I’ve been enjoying doing that, but it’s a challenge, of course, and working some of these arcs through has been a challenge and making sure it’s all going to come out in a way that I think is exciting for fans. I know that they’re interested in where some of the things I developed in Season One. I’m pretty happy with it… Love working with Rosario [Dawson], so I can’t wait to get back to that.”

    Where else have I seen Jeremy Allen White?

    Jeremy Allen White in 'The Bear.'
    Jeremy Allen White in ‘The Bear.’ Photo: Courtesy of FX.

    White these days is best known as –– and has received awards for –– driven chef Carmen ‘Carmy’ Berzatto in cooking drama ‘The Bear.’

    Before that, he was seen in ‘Shameless,’ ‘Homecoming’ and since he’s been in movies including ‘The Rental,’ ‘Fingernails’ and ‘The Iron Claw.’

    More recently, he’s been filming the Bruce Springsteen pic ‘Deliver Me from Nowhere’ (as Springsteen) and ‘The Bear’s fourth season will be with us next year.

    When will ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ be on screens?

    The Mando movie will be rocketing into theaters on May 22nd, 2026, so we still have a bit of a wait for that one.

    'The Mandalorian' season 3 starring Pedro Pascal premieres March 1st on Disney+. Photo: Lucasfilm.
    ‘The Mandalorian’ season 3 starring Pedro Pascal premieres March 1st on Disney+. Photo: Lucasfilm.

    List of ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy ‘Star Wars’ Movies On Amazon

    Please click on the video player below to watch our interviews with the cast and crew of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’:

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  • TV Review: ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’

    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Launching with its first two episodes on Disney+ Monday, December 2nd, ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ is Lucasfilm’s latest attempt to spark success with a series set in the galaxy that George Lucas created.

    Here, ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy director Jon Watts and regular collaborator Christopher Ford have concocted a fun romp that sends a group of young characters on an adventure beyond the borders of their mundane suburban planet.

    Related Article: Jude Law Talks ‘Skeleton Crew’ and Joining the ‘Star Wars’ Universe

    Does ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ Launch Well?

    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Getting new ‘Star Wars’ TV series off the ground can be a dicey affair these days –– for every ‘Mandalorian,’ or ‘Andor,’ there’s a ‘Book of Boba Fett’ or ‘The Acolyte,’ which don’t enjoy the same level of impact or fan embrace.

    ‘Skeleton Crew’ benefits from charting its own course, being recognizably set in the universe of ‘Star Wars’ but also injecting plenty of its own personality. Focusing on younger characters in search of adventure –– one needs a power convertor for something but is far less whiny than the young Luke Skywalker –– brings a much-needed level of charm and infectious, youthful energy.

    Script and Direction

    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford co-wrote all eight episodes, with Myung Joh Wesner assisting on two. And that consistent tone and feel through the show means that ‘Skeleton Crew’ stays entertaining.

    The writers have crafted some appealing characters here, and also layered in more than one mystery without coming across as some frustrating puzzle box overpowering everything.

    Watts, who handles the first episode (and the last), has assembled a batch of heavy hitters to direct the various other episodes, including ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ duo Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, Bryce Dallas Howard (an old hand at ‘Star Wars’ TV at this point, ‘Twisters’ Lee Isaac Chung, ‘Beef’ helmer Jake Schreier and ‘The Green Knight’s David Lowery.

    While only the first three episodes were given the press, the show has a style all of its own already, especially given the starting point on a colony world that has its own secrets, but whose appearance puts you in mind of movies such as ‘E.T.’ and, as previously referenced, ‘The Goonies.’

    Once things go off-world, the show still maintains a unique vibe, crammed full of pirates and other disreputable types as one of the first stops is a hive of scum and villainy (no, not that one, a space port with its own identity). And the first episode is nimbly edited by Andrew S. Eisen, who brings a sense of energy and helps define the tone of the show early on.

    Performances

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Jude Law might be the star name here, but the focus is also on the young performers, and they all acquit themselves well.

    Ravi Cabot-Conyers as Wim

    Wim is our initial anchor point, a young man who is struggling with future plans (as in, he’s not sure he has many, aside from a wistful dream of becoming a Jedi) and has an oft-absent father (played by Tunde Adebimpe’s kindly but busy widower) who, along with his nervier best friend Neel, is often getting into scrapes.

    Cabot-Conyers brings him to life in entertaining fashion, without ever coming across as being annoying.

    (L to R) Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) and Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers) with hoverbikes in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) and Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers) with hoverbikes in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Robert Timothy Smith as Neel

    Neel, Wim’s best friend, is an appealing, sweet character who resembles a young Max Rebo from ‘Return of the Jedi’ (but is reportedly his own species), and a bundle of nerves who is nevertheless loyal to Wim.

    Smith, playing the part with the help of some complex prosthetics and CG, is a superb sidekick and works well as a character.

    Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Fern

    Armstrong brings spirit and some sly humor to the tomboyish character of Fern, who loves nothing more than racing speeder bikes and pushing back against her officious mother (Kerry Condon).

    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) KB (Kyriana Kratter) and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Kyriana Kratter as KB

    Fern’s best friend, KB has her own technological secrets, but is also a great addition to the foursome. She’s careful and logical, but willing to go along with their schemes.

    Jude Law as Jod Na Nawood

    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Law comes across as a blend of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Han Solo, and while that might sound strange, it actually works here.

    He’s also something of a mystery, but never one that is frustrating –– and Law naturally has nuclear levels of charm, clearly reveling in the chance to cut loose and have fun.

    Other Notable Characters

    Vane (Marti Matulis) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Vane (Marti Matulis) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Though we can’t talk about many of the characters who show up even in these early episodes because of spoilers, there are some good supporting performances going on here, including some pirates and a wealth of other aliens.

    Final Thoughts

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ is a worthy addition to the ranks of small-screen stories set in the galaxy far, far away. Watts and collaborators have created a lively, funny and adventurous series, that, while it takes a moment to get going, heads to some entertaining places with characters you’ll root for.

    ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ receives 8.5 out of 10 stars.

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    What is the plot of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    Four children (Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Robert Timothy Smith and Kyriana Kratter) end up on an adventure to make their way home after being lost in the galaxy following a discovery they make on their home planet.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    • Jude Law as Jod Na Nawood
    • Ravi Cabot-Conyers as Wim
    • Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Fern
    • Kyriana Kratter as KB
    • Robert Timothy Smith as Neel
    • Tunde Adebimpe as Wendle
    • Kerry Condon as Fara
    • Nick Frost as the voice of SM 33
    • Jaleel White as Gunter
    • Fred Tatasciore as Brutus
    • Mike Estes as Pax
    • Dale Soules as Chaelt
    Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Other ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy ‘Star Wars’ Movies On Amazon

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  • ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ Exclusive Interview: Jude Law

    Jude Law stars in 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+.
    Jude Law stars in ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+.

    Premiering on Disney+ December 3rd is the latest ‘Star Wars’ series entitled ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, which was created by director Jon Watts (‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’) and screenwriter Christopher Ford (‘Cop Car’).

    The series stars Jude Law (‘Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore’), Ravi Cabot-Conyers (‘Encanto’), Ryan Kiera Armstrong (‘Black Widow’), Kyriana Kratter (‘The Healing Garden’), Robert Timothy Smith (‘Wolfs’), Kerry Condon (‘The Banshees of Inisherin’), and Nick Frost (‘Shaun of the Dead).

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with Jude Law to talk about his work on ‘Skeleton Crew’, joining the ‘Star Wars’ universe, his character, influences he drew from, working with the cast of young actors, and collaborating with show creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford.

    Related Article: Actor Hayden Christensen Talks Disney+’s ‘Obi Wan Kenobi’

    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) is closely examined by security droid eyestalks while his young partners stand back in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Moviefone: To begin with, what is it like as an actor to join the ‘Star Wars’ universe and did it meet your expectations?

    Jude Law: For me, personally, it was stepping into a very familiar world. I was one of the millions of kids in the late ’70s whose lives were changed when they were taken to the cinema by their parents to see the first film. So, I’ve always had a soft spot for it. I played it as a kid running around pew-pewing and collecting the figures and cards. So, it just felt very familiar actually. What really kind of lured me in was the curiosity of how they make these things and the different parameters or rules that apply for it to be or feel like an authentic ‘Star Wars’ show or film. I think, from that perspective, it absolutely lived up to expectation. The on-camera puppetry and animatronics and all of that was wonderful to experience.

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Without giving away any spoilers, what can you say about your character and the way you wanted to approach portraying him?

    JL: Well, when he was described to me, the character was clearly just full of potential and possibilities. He’s very mysterious, he’s different things to different people with different names, and he keeps you guessing right up to the end. The big question is are his intentions good or bad? That I don’t want to spoil, but the fun aspect was, because of this multifaceted sort of nature, I was able to touch on inspiration from characters throughout the canon. There were times for humor, times for drama, times for menace, and times for heroism. He really does touch on all of those, and it meant that it was very rewarding to play.

    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law) and Neel (Robert Timothy Smith) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: To follow up on what you just said, were there particular characters from the ‘Star Wars’ universe that were touchstones for you in creating this character?

    JL: Well, I felt like Han (Solo) and Lando (Calrissian) and just the world that those two mixed in was close to what Jod (Na Nawood) is experiencing. So, there’s a little bit of him inspired by them. I’d say that’s about it really. Otherwise, it was a case of taking tones as an inspiration.

    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Wim (Ravi Cabot-Conyers), Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law), KB (Kyriana Kratter), Neel (Robert Timothy Smith), and Fern (Ryan Kiera Armstrong) in Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Can you talk about working with the kids in the cast, and when you are working with young actors, do you have to adjust your performance at all? What did you learn from watching them work?

    JL: I certainly didn’t adjust anything. I mean, they approached it and appeared day one as very professional young actors. They knew what they were doing, and they were confident, and they were very able and well-prepared, and they took it seriously. Then they were kids, so they were also being silly and funny and laughing, making everyone laugh, and they brought a lovely sense of joy. I mean, every day felt kind of fun and special and as it should on a show like this. What was interesting and what we played into was that Jod doesn’t really understand what childhood is or who kids are. So, my role really was to also bring that element to the relationships. He’s kind of aghast that they don’t know how to look after themselves or that they get hungry, or they miss their parents and seemingly can’t fly ships or firing blasters or any of that. I enjoyed that dynamic. I thought there was a lot of humor in it and, if I’m honest, the way I saw it was it is a relationship that evolves over an adventure. So, we didn’t try to build some kind of relationship before we started. We just got on with it. Then, really, you are watching me and them and the characters getting to know each other. As the adventure evolves over months and months and months, we are learning about each other too.

    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Kyrianna Kratter, Ryan Kiera Armstrong and Jon Watts on the set of Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Finally, what was it like working with Jon Watts and Christopher Ford and helping them execute their specific vision for this ‘Star Wars’ project?

    JL: Very specific vision. I mean, so much of the heavy lifting had been done in the script work and the concept. It was so clear and executed through the scripts, which were just rich and fun. They were great springboards to then perform from. The same goes for the guys. They were just very approachable. I came at them with so many questions. I have a process where I must understand where my character’s been born and what happened in their past, and they agreed that we could draw all that out so that we knew exactly and in fact, they drew on it. You’ll see towards the end, they kind of drew on some of the ideas we had about his childhood, and throughout they were just incredibly clear and passionate. I mean, it’s not an easy job also setting something up and then stepping back and letting other directors come in, especially directors of the pedigree that they got. But it was a very inclusive experience.

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    What is the plot of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    Four children (Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Robert Timothy Smith and Kyriana Kratter) end up on an adventure to make their way home after being lost in the galaxy following a discovery they make on their home planet.

    Who is in the cast of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?

    Lucasfilm's 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

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  • Simon Kinberg to Write and Produce New ‘Star Wars’ Trilogy

    (Left) The cast of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'. Photo: Lucasfilm. (Right) 'Invasion' series creator Simon Kinberg.
    (Left) The cast of ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’. Photo: Lucasfilm. (Right) ‘Invasion’ series creator Simon Kinberg.

    Preview:

    • Simon Kinberg is reportedly developing a ‘Star Wars’ movie trilogy.
    • He’d write the movies and produce them with Kathleen Kennedy.
    • This trilogy is apparently about new characters.

    Stop us if you’ve heard this one before.

    A respected name in filmmaking (and particularly in this case, genre producing) has been hired by Lucasfilm to come up with new ‘Star Wars’ movies. Yes, it’s a story we’ve heard multiple times in the past –– more on that below –– with little to show for it so far.

    Still, shoving cynicism aside for a moment, we’re certainly intrigued to learn via Deadline that Simon Kinberg is reportedly making a deal with Disney and Lucasfilm to develop, write and produce a new trilogy set in that galaxy far, far away.

    And it’s not like Kinberg –– who has worked on a variety of projects in the past, including 20th Century Fox’s ‘X-Men’ movies, the ‘Deadpool’ films and a host of others more as a writer/producer –– doesn’t also already boast ‘Star Wars’ bona fides.

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    He co-created animated series ‘Star Wars Rebels’ with Dave Filoni and Carrie Beck, with the show running for four seasons from 2014-2018, and certainly influencing the direction of the current live-action ‘Star Wars’ shows.

    Kinberg was also a consultant on ‘Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens,’ the J.J. Abrams-directed movie that kicked off Disney’s expansion of the galaxy after it bought Lucasfilm.

    And talking of the companies, we must still take all of this with enough salt to sate a Sarlacc, since neither Disney nor Lucasfilm is officially commenting just yet. Deadline mentions that Kinberg’s deal has closed, but these things usually have to wait for more solid confirmation, often at an event such as Star Wars Celebration, a Comic-Con or Disney’s D23.

    What would the Simon Kinberg ‘Star Wars’ movies focus on?

    1977's 'Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope.' Credit: Lucasfilm.
    1977’s ‘Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope.’ Credit: Lucasfilm.

    That question is, for now at least, largely a mystery.

    While Deadline initially heard that it would continue the “Skywalker Saga” (AKA Episodes I through IX, which kicked off back in 1977 with the original ‘Star Wars’ before spawning the prequel and then sequel trilogies), that has since been shot down like a TIE Fighter by the Falcon, with focus now apparently on a new story with different characters (but with the door open for familiar faces to potentially appear).

    Related Article: Simon Kinberg Reportedly to Oversee Future ‘Star Trek’ Movies for Paramount

    A bigger issue is whether this actually comes to fruition. After all, as recently as this May, Kinberg was reported as being involved with driving the ‘Star Trek’ movie franchise for Paramount, who we’re sure aren’t looking to repeat the situation with J.J. Abrams, who oversaw the first two movies of the studio’s rebooted ‘Trek’ movie universe before jumping ship to ‘Star Wars.’

    And the future of ‘Star Wars’ on the big screen has seemed a little shaky of late, with famous genre names announced (or rumored) as working on new ‘Wars’ projects, only for nothing to come to screen.

    Which brings us to…

    Who else has been reported as involved with new ‘Star Wars’ movies?

    (L to R) Director James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.
    (L to R) Director James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy at Star Wars Celebration 2023.

    The list for this is fairly long, with little to show for it thus far.

    Right now, we have current co-overlord of the ‘Star Wars’ TV universe, Jon Favreau, in post-production on a ‘Mandalorian and Grogu’ movie, which is scheduled to be on screens in May 2026.

    Still in development are projects from Favreau’s main collaborator, Dave Filoni (who, like his colleague, would likely draw from their TV universe), James Mangold (who has been working on a film chronicling the birth of the Jedi order) and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, who is aboard to direct a movie featuring Daisy Ridley’s Rey as she continues her own quest.

    (L to R) Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Daisy Ridley at Star Wars Celebration 2023.
    (L to R) Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Daisy Ridley at Star Wars Celebration 2023.

    That latter movie has been having some issues getting its script together, with ‘Peaky Blinders’ Steven Knight the latest writer to depart.

    Then we have Taika Waititi, who keeps talking about how he wants to move forward with his idea, while Donald Glover continues work on a story about Lando Calrissian, which was being touted as a Disney+ series but currently appears to be a movie.

    As for those who have been reported as developing ‘Star Wars’ output that has yet to see much forward movement? They include ‘The Last Jedi’s Rian Johnson (who was apparently going to make a trilogy but is currently busy with his big Netflix deal for the Benoit Blanc mystery movies and crime series ‘Poker Face,’ Patty Jenkins (whose ‘Rogue Squadron’ movie flits between active development and being grounded in a hangar) and ‘Game of Thrones’ duo David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, who likewise were going to produce a new trilogy but are instead adapting beloved sci-fi novel ‘The Three Body Problem.’

    What can we actually expect coming up from ‘Star Wars’?

    'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ will be premiering on Disney+ in 2023.
    ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ will be premiering on Disney+ in 2023.

    Besides Favreau’s ‘Mando’ movie, the next confirmed ‘Star Wars’ releases will be on the small screen, with ‘Skeleton Crew’ a ‘Goonies’–inspired adventure launching on Disney+ on December 3rd, and Season 2 of ‘Andor,’ due next year.

    We also know that Filoni is at work on a second season of ‘Ahsoka,’ though that has yet to land a date.

    (L to R) Adam Driver and Daisy Ridley in 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.' Photo: Lucasfilm.
    (L to R) Adam Driver and Daisy Ridley in ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.’ Photo: Lucasfilm.

    Other ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

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  • Legendary Actor James Earl Jones Dies Aged 93

    James Earl Jones in 'Coming to America.' Photo: Paramount Pictures.
    James Earl Jones in ‘Coming to America.’ Photo: Paramount Pictures.

    Preview:

    • Legendary actor James Earl Jones passes away at 93
    • He was best known for his role as the voice of Darth Vader
    • Jones is one of the few actors who have won the EGOT

    Distinguished actor James Earl Jones passed away this Monday in his home in Dutchess County, New York, at the age of 93. Jones is known for roles such as the voice of Darth Vador in ‘Star Wars’, Terence Mann in ‘Field of Dreams,’ and the voice of Mufasa in ‘The Lion King.’

    Jones had a prominent career both on the big screen and on stage, and is known as one of the few actors to have won the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony). During his 60-year career, Jones has about 200 credits, including ‘Star Wars,’ ‘The Field of Dreams,’ ‘The Lion King,’ ‘Conan the Barbarian,’ ‘The Sandlot’ and more.

    A Look Back At His Work

    James Earl Jones as Darth Vader in 'Star Wars'. Photo: Lucasfilm.
    James Earl Jones as Darth Vader in ‘Star Wars’. Photo: Lucasfilm.

    James Earl Jones was born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, MS. Overcoming his stutter as a child, Jones made his Broadway debut in the play ‘The Egghead’ in 1957. Soon, he became one of the best-known Shakespearean actors of the time, acting in plays such as Othello, King Lear, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ and more.

    He made his film debut in Stanley Kubrick’s ‘Dr. Lovestreange or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb’ as young Lt. Lothar Sogg. In 1970, Jones played the lead role of Jack Johnson in ‘The Great White Hope’, which will earn him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. He was the second African-American male performer to be nominated for the award.

    Jones went on to make his mark as the voice of Darth Vader in the ‘Star Wars’ trilogy in 1977. A voice so iconic and commanding, with quotes like “No, I am your father.”, “I find your lack of faith disturbing” is forever ingrained in pop culture

    Stars Remembering James Earl Jones

    (L to R) James Earl Jones, Kevin Costner and Amy Madigan in 'Field of Dreams.' Photo:
    (L to R) James Earl Jones, Kevin Costner and Amy Madigan in ‘Field of Dreams.’ Photo:
    Universal Pictures.

    During his long career, Jones worked with an extensive list of actors, directors, and producers, who paid tribute to to him:

    Mark Hamill wrote “RIP dad” next to a heartbreak emoji on his X account, as well as the below statement to The Associated Press:

    “One of the world’s finest actors whose contributions to ‘Star Wars’ were immeasurable. He’ll be greatly missed.”

    Actor LeVar Burton also wrote on X:

    James Earl Jones… there will never be another of his particular combination of graces.

    — LeVar Burton (@levarburton) September 9, 2024

    Disney CEO Bob Iger released the following in a statement:

    “From the gentle wisdom of Mufasa to the menacing threat of Darth Vader, James Earl Jones gave voice to some of the greatest characters in cinema history. A celebrated stage actor with nearly 200 film and television credits to his name, the stories he brought to life with a uniquely commanding presence and a true richness of spirit have left an indelible mark on generations of audiences.”

    Actress Octavia Spencer posted her sentiment on Instagram:

    “Legendary doesn’t even begin to describe his iconic roles and impact on cinema forever. His voice and talent will be remembered always. Sending love to his family, friends and countless fans in all the galaxies, far, far away.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Octavia Spencer (@octaviaspencer)

    Jones was married to Cecilia Hart, who passed in 2016. He is survived by his son, Flynn Earl Jones.

    James Earl Jones as the voice of Mufasa in 'The Lion King'. Photo: Disney.
    James Earl Jones as the voice of Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’. Photo: Disney.

    James Earl Jones Movies:

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  • ‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ Cancelled After One Season by Disney+

    (L to R) Vernestra Rwoh (Rebecca Henderson) and Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (L to R) Vernestra Rwoh (Rebecca Henderson) and Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Preview:

    • ‘The Acolyte’ has been canceled after one season.
    • The series, set during ‘Star Wars’ High Republic era, was a mixed bag, critically.
    • In other ‘Star Wars’ news, Boba Fett may not show up in the ‘Mandalorian’ movie.

    Bad news today for anyone who enjoyed the vengeful, High Republic storyline of ‘The Acolyte’.

    The series, which aired its first season on Disney+ this past June and July, has not been renewed for a second, according to Deadline’s sources. Neither Disney nor Lucasfilm has made an official statement on the matter, but the companies generally tend to let underperforming shows quietly fade like a Jedi becoming a Force ghost.

    While ‘The Acolyte’ received mixed-positive reviews from critics, it was the target of hate from certain toxic portions of the ‘Star Wars’ fandom and didn’t seem to gain the attention of the wider community that other series have.

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    What was the story of ‘The Acolyte’?

    Mae (Amandla Stenberg) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    Mae (Amandla Stenberg) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    Created by ‘Russian Doll’s Leslye Headland, ‘The Acolyte’ was set in a galaxy of shadowy secrets and emerging dark-side powers in the final days of the High Republic era.

    It focused on Osha Aniseya (Amandla Stenberg), a former Jedi padawan-turned-engineer, who is unexpectedly reunited with the Jedi who was training her, Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae of ‘Squid Game’) when a mysterious assassin starts killing members of the Jedi order.

    As it turns out –– spoiler alert for those who haven’t watched the show –– the killer is her twin sister Mae (also Stenberg), who is on a vengeful quest to track down the people responsible for her community’s destruction.

    The cast for the show also included Manny Jacinto, Jodie Turner-Smith, Dafne Keen, Rebecca Henderson, Charlie Barnett, Dean-Charles Chapman and Carrie-Anne Moss.

    Related Article: TV Review: ‘The Acolyte’ 

    What’s happening with ‘Star Wars’?

    'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ will be premiering on Disney+ in 2023.
    ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ will be premiering on Disney+ in 2023.

    Despite the loss of ‘The Acolyte’, the wider ‘Star Wars’ universe is still thriving on big and small screens.

    Fellow series ‘Ahsoka’ has already scored a second season, and the latest series set in that galaxy far, far away, the ‘Goonies’-alike ‘Skeleton Crew’, docks on Disney+ in December.

    Darker, and more morally grey show ‘Andor’ will be back next year.

    And what is still the most successful Lucasfilm TV effort to date, ‘The Mandalorian’ is headed to cinemas, with Jon Favreau at work on ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’, due in theaters on May 22nd, 2026.

    What about Boba Fett?

    (L to R) Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen in 'The Book of Boba Fett' on Disney+
    (L to R) Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen in ‘The Book of Boba Fett’ on Disney+

    While ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ offers the chance for the TV characters to make their movie debut, it doesn’t appear everyone is along for the ride.

    Spilling some Boba tea at a panel at Fan Expo Chicago at the weekend, actor Temuera Morrison indicated that bounty hunter Boba Fett seems unlikely to show up.

    Here’s what Morrison said (via Screen Rant):

    “I’m still waiting for a phone call to be quite honest. I think we’re just on the shelf for a little bit. Maybe we come off the shelf later.”

    It’s perhaps not too surprising given that Mando spin-off series ‘The Book of Boba Fett’ failed to capture the public imagination (at least not until it effectively became ‘The Mandalorian’ Season 2.5).

    So, ‘The Acolyte’ has been cancelled. Perhaps Boba Fett is cancelled for now too…?

    (Center to right) Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon (Dafne Keen) and Master Lakshay (Paul Bullion) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.
    (Center to right) Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon (Dafne Keen) and Master Lakshay (Paul Bullion) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

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  • Ben Mendelsohn Reportedly Back for ‘Andor’ Season 2

    Ben Mendelsohn as Orson Krennic in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story'.
    Ben Mendelsohn as Orson Krennic in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’. Photo: Lucasfilm.

    Preview:

    • Ben Mendelsohn is reportedly back for ‘Andor’ Season 2.
    • The ‘Star Wars’ series has already shot the season.
    • Mendelsohn will reprise his role as Orson Krennic.

    Much like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Team ‘Star Wars’ is famously circumspect when it comes to revealing information.

    But, as with the Death Star plans, leaks do occur. Which brings us to ‘Andor’, the Disney+ prequel series that leads into the events of ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’, where Death Star plans played a slightly important role.

    Season 1 of the show launched in 2022 to great acclaim, and executive producer Tony Gilroy and his team have been hard at work on Season 2.

    And now, according to an unusual source, we’ve learned that the new season will reportedly see the return of Ben Mendelsohn’s Imperial Director Orson Krennic.

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    What was the story of ‘Andor’ Season 1?

    Diego Luna plays Cassian Andor in Lucasfilm's 'Andor,' exclusively on Disney+.
    Diego Luna plays Cassian Andor in Lucasfilm’s ‘Andor,’ exclusively on Disney+.

    ‘Andor’ focuses on the character of Cassian Andor (played in ‘Rogue One’ and the series by Diego Luna). It’s the story how a young man went from an orphan whose people were attacked by Imperial Forces to a resistance fighter recruited by the Rebel Alliance to focus his anger.

    Along the way, he learns that the fight against the oppressive regime is far from the black-and-white-conflict usually portrayed in the movies, and even ended up spending time in a high-tech Imperial prison.

    Related Article: Diego Luna Talks Reprising ‘Rogue One’ Character in Disney+’s ‘Andor’

    How does Imperial Director Krennic fit into the story?

    Ben Mendelsohn as Orson Krennic in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story'.
    Ben Mendelsohn as Orson Krennic in ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’. Photo: Lucasfilm.

    We first met Krennic at the start of ‘Rogue One’, striding across a windswept plain in a magnificent cape to bring Galen Erso (Mads Mikkelsen), chief designer of the Death Star back from where he has been hiding out to track down an issue with it –– an issue Erso himself created.

    The Playlist talked to Mexican filmmaker Alonso Ruizpalacios for his new movie, and he revealed that not only had he been given the chance to direct the last three episodes of ‘Andor’s 12-episode second season, and that he had worked with great actors such as Stellan Skarsgård, Forest Whitaker and Mendelsohn.

    It makes sense that since the end of ‘Andor’ Season 2 is designed to directly dovetail into the start of ‘Rogue One’, Krennic would eventually show up. And what of Mikkelsen? We’ll have to wait and see on that front.

    Disney and Lucasfilm have of course not confirmed the casting, so keep that grain of salt ready for now, though Luna himself said at the recent ACE Superhero Comic Con that we can expect to see some familiar ‘Rogue One’ faces in the second season.

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    When will ‘Andor’ Season 2 arrive on screens?

    Disney has yet to officially confirm when the new season will land on its streaming service, but early 2025 would appear to be a possibility given how far along it is in the process.

    'Andor' season 1 will premiere on Disney+ September 21st.
    ‘Andor’ season 1 will premiere on Disney+ September 21st.

    Other ‘Star Wars’ Movies and TV Shows:

    Buy ‘Star Wars’ Movies On Amazon

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  • Mel Brooks and Josh Gad Developing ‘Spaceballs’ Sequel

    (Left) Mel Brooks in 'Spaceballs'. Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. (Right) Josh Gad in 'The Wedding Ringer'. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
    (Left) Mel Brooks in ‘Spaceballs’. Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. (Right) Josh Gad in ‘The Wedding Ringer’. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

    Preview:

    • Josh Gad is aboard to star in, produce and co-write a ‘Spaceballs’ sequel.
    • Mel Brooks, creator and star of the original, is aboard to produce.
    • Josh Greenbaum is directing for Amazon/MGM.

    Follow-ups to Mel Brooks movies have apparently become a thing. We’ve already seen 1981’s ‘History of the World: Part I’ spawn Hulu limited series ‘History of the World: Part II’ last year (which was driven by Nick Kroll and David Stassen, but with Brooks as producer and occasionally on screen).

    While Brooks would probably crack that it’s all happening now before it’s too late, another of his comedies is seeing a return –– this time, a sequel to 1987 ‘Star Wars’ spoof ‘Spaceballs’.

    Josh Gad is now developing the new movie for Amazon/MGM (since MGM released the original and Amazon has been looking for ways to use the IP it inherited since buying the company), with Brooks involved as a producer and –– assuming he wants to –– once again stepping before cameras.

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    What was the story of ‘Spaceballs’?

    John Candy, Joan Rivers, Daphne Zuniga and Bill Pullman in 'Spaceballs'.
    (L to R) John Candy, Joan Rivers, Daphne Zuniga and Bill Pullman in ‘Spaceballs’. Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.

    The original ‘Spaceballs’, directed by Brooks from a script he wrote with Thomas Meehan and Ronny Graham, starred Bill Pullman as Lone Starr, a scruffy hero in the Han Solo mold who has to stop the nefarious President Skroob (Brooks) from stealing the atmosphere of the peaceful planet Druidia.

    Along the way, he comes to the aid of Princess Vespa (Daphne Zuniga) and her sarcastic robot maid Dot Matrix (voiced by Joan Rivers). John Candy plays Starr’s faithful half-man/half-dog sidekick Barf and Rick Moranis is superb Vader spoof Dark Helmet. Oh, and Brooks also plays diminutive Yoda-alike wisdom-spewer Yogurt, who also has a nice line in merchandising.

    ‘Spaceballs’ doesn’t just target George Lucas’ work, however: there are also riffs on the likes of ‘Planet of the Apes’, ‘Star Trek’ and in one particularly memorable moment, ‘Alien’.

    Though the movie didn’t exactly triumph at the box office (it ended up with $38.1 million worldwide) but has long since been considered a cult classic.

    Plot details for the new film have yet to be revealed.

    Related Article: Director Josh Greenbaum Talks ‘Strays’ Starring Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx

    Who is making the new ‘Spaceballs’?

    Director Josh Greenbaum with Reggie on the set of 'Strays.'
    Director Josh Greenbaum with Reggie on the set of ‘Strays.’

    With Gad on board to star and produce, he’s also co-written the script with Benji Samit and Dan Hernandez, who worked on ‘Pokémon: Detective Pikachu’.

    Josh Greenbaum, who made ‘Strays’ (for which Gad provided a voice) and ‘Barb and Star go to Vista Del Mar’, is in the director’s chair. He feels like a good fit for a new ‘Spaceballs’, since he’s proved he can handle wacky comedy with some emotional undertones.

    The news was originally broken by Jeff Sneider, with Gad confirming via an enthusiastic Instagram post:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/C8YF7rKyTYL/

    When will the ‘Spaceballs’ sequel be on screens?

    With development at an early stage, Amazon/MGM has yet to announce any sort of release date for the movie. We’ll have to wait see –– casting and actually shooting the movie must come first.

    Rick Moranis and George Wyner in 'Spaceballs'.
    (L to R) Rick Moranis and George Wyner in ‘Spaceballs’. Photo: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.

    Other Mel Brooks Movies:

    Buy Mel Brooks Movies on Amazon

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  • TV Review: ‘The Acolyte’

    Mae (Amandla Stenberg) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    Mae (Amandla Stenberg) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    Related Article: The Jedi Are Under Threat in the Trailer for ‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’

    Does ‘The Acolyte’ offer something new?

    Vernestra Rwoh (Rebecca Henderson) and Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    (L to R) Vernestra Rwoh (Rebecca Henderson) and Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    ‘The Acolyte’: Script and Direction

    Amandla Stenberg , set PA Taylor Young, director Leslye Headland and director of photography Chris Teague on the set of Lucasfilm's The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    (L to R) Amandla Stenberg , set PA Taylor Young, director Leslye Headland and director of photography Chris Teague on the set of Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    Jedi Master Kelnacca (Joonas Suotamo) sitting next to Jedi speeder bike in a scene from Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    Jedi Master Kelnacca (Joonas Suotamo) sitting next to Jedi speeder bike in a scene from Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    ‘The Acolyte’: Performances

    Mae (Amandla Stenberg) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    Mae (Amandla Stenberg) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    Lee Jung-jae as Sol

    Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    Dafne Keen as Jecki Lon

    Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon (Dafne Keen) and Master Lakshay (Paul Bullion) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    (Center to right) Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon (Dafne Keen) and Master Lakshay (Paul Bullion) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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.

    Other Notable Performances

    Jedi Master Indara (Carrie-Anne Moss) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    Jedi Master Indara (Carrie-Anne Moss) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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 Acolyte’: Final Thoughts

    Yord Fandar (Charlie Barnett), Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon (Dafne Keen) and Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    (L-R, front row) Yord Fandar (Charlie Barnett), Jedi Padawan Jecki Lon (Dafne Keen) and Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

    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…

    Who else is in ‘The Acolyte’?

    ‘The Acolyte’ also features Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Charlie Barnett, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo and Carrie-Anne Moss.

    (L to R) Mae (Amandla Stenberg) and Jedi Master Indara (Carrie-Anne Moss) in Lucasfilm's 'The Acolyte', exclusively on Disney+.
    (L to R) Mae (Amandla Stenberg) and Jedi Master Indara (Carrie-Anne Moss) in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Acolyte’, exclusively on Disney+. ©2024 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved.

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