Ryan Gosling to Star in Shawn Levy’s Standalone Star Wars Film

The upcoming movie, directed by Shawn Levy and penned by Jonathan Tropper, will introduce new characters in a story set five years after The Rise of Skywalker, with filming expected to commence this fall.

At the ongoing Star Wars Celebration in Tokyo, director Shawn Levy and actor Ryan Gosling officially announced their collaboration on a new Star Wars film titled Star Wars: Starfighter. This standalone installment is set five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker (2019) and is scheduled to begin production this fall, aiming for a theatrical release on May 28, 2027.​

Levy emphasized the film’s unique position within the Star Wars universe, stating, “There are many rumors, some true, some not. … This is not a prequel, this is not a sequel. It’s a new adventure.” Gosling praised the story as “such a great story with great and original characters,” highlighting its “heart and adventure,” and expressed confidence in Levy’s vision, saying, “There is not a more perfect filmmaker for this particular story than Shawn.”

Star Wars: Starfighter comes to theaters on May 28, 2027. #StarWarsCelebration pic.twitter.com/dsbVb3VdBY

— Star Wars (@starwars) April 18, 2025

The project, co-written by Levy and Jonathan Tropper, has been in development for the past two years under Levy’s 21 Laps banner, in collaboration with Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy. While plot details remain under wraps, the film is confirmed to be a standalone narrative, separate from the Skywalker saga, and will explore new territories within the Star Wars universe.​

Gosling’s involvement marks a notable departure from the franchise’s tradition of casting lesser-known actors, bringing significant star power to the project. His previous experience in science fiction, notably in Blade Runner 2049, positions him well for this new venture into the galaxy far, far away.

This film is poised to be the second Star Wars theatrical release following a hiatus since 2019, with The Mandalorian & Grogu set to premiere in May 2026. Levy’s entry into the Star Wars franchise follows his success with Disney’s highest-grossing R-rated film, Deadpool & Wolverine, which grossed $1.33 billion worldwide.​

As anticipation builds, fans can look forward to a fresh and adventurous addition to the Star Wars legacy, helmed by a creative team eager to explore new horizons within the beloved universe.