Welcome to the Next Era of Star Wars Storytelling
Just announced at Star Wars Celebration Japan, the galaxy far, far away is about to expand once again—this time in a bold new direction. Star Wars: Starfighter is the next theatrical installment in the legendary franchise, arriving in theaters on May 28, 2027.
This all-new cinematic adventure marks the first Star Wars feature film to follow the events of The Rise of Skywalker, offering fans a glimpse into the post-Skywalker saga universe with brand-new characters and unexplored stories.
Ryan Gosling Pilots the Future of the Franchise
Leading the charge is none other than Ryan Gosling, who will take on the film’s central role. While Lucasfilm is keeping character details under wraps for now, the casting alone has fans buzzing. Gosling’s track record of nuanced performances in sci-fi epics (Blade Runner 2049, anyone?) makes this an exciting move.
The film will be directed by Shawn Levy, best known for his work on Stranger Things and the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine. Levy brings an impressive balance of spectacle and emotion to his projects, and Starfighter promises to uphold this standard.
Screenwriter Jonathan Tropper, who previously collaborated with Levy on The Adam Project, is crafting the story—one that takes place five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker, according to official sources.
What Is Star Wars: Starfighter About?
Lucasfilm describes the movie as “an entirely new adventure featuring all-new characters set in a time that has not been explored on screen yet.” This is not a reboot. It’s not a prequel. It’s an original narrative, free from the legacy of the Skywalkers while still rooted in everything that makes Star Wars… well, Star Wars.
The project joins an evolving slate of Star Wars stories in development, including The Mandalorian & Grogu, slated for release on May 22, 2026. With Starfighter launching just one year later, Disney is clearly doubling down on a strong cinematic return for the franchise.
Star Wars: Starfighter comes to theaters on May 28, 2027. #StarWarsCelebration pic.twitter.com/dsbVb3VdBY
— Star Wars (@starwars) April 18, 2025
Production Timeline and What’s Next
Production for Star Wars: Starfighter is expected to begin in fall 2025. That leaves plenty of time for additional cast announcements, plot reveals, and trailer debuts. Expect updates to trickle in throughout 2026, leading to what’s sure to be one of the most anticipated theatrical events of 2027.
Want to catch up before it hits the big screen? Now is a great time to revisit The Rise of Skywalker on Disney+ and theorize about what’s to come next in the canon.
Our Thoughts
This is precisely what the franchise needs. A fresh start, a new voice, and a reason to gather in theaters once again. While we’re still riding the high of The Mandalorian and Ahsoka on Disney+. But there is something special about a new Star Wars movie. It’s also an opportunity to answer the question: What are Rey and Ben doing five years later? Will we find out?
iF the title Starfighter rings any nostalgic bells—it should. While the film is not officially tied to the 2001 Star Wars: Starfighter video game, longtime fans are sure to appreciate the nod to one of the saga’s original starship battle experiences.
Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan or just joining the Resistance, this new chapter has something for everyone.
