Starfighter Strives to Capture Return of the Jedi Vibe
Shawn Levy, known for directing films like “Deadpool vs. Wolverine” and “Free Guy,” is helming the upcoming “Star Wars: Starfighter.” Unlike many directors before him, Levy has chosen “Return of the Jedi” as a key influence rather than the more commonly cited “The Empire Strikes Back” or “A New Hope.”
Influence of “Return of the Jedi”
In a recent interview on the “On Film… With Kevin McCarthy” podcast, Levy detailed his nostalgic connection to “Return of the Jedi.” He expressed his admiration for its unique blend of themes, including adventure and heartwarming moments.
- Combination of themes: levity, adventure, heart, spectacle.
- Watched “Return of the Jedi” more times than the other original trilogy films.
Levy fondly reminisced about his childhood, stating that viewing the film in theaters significantly impacted his life. He conveyed a sense of wonder as he embodies the spirit of his younger self while directing.
Challenges Ahead for Levy
Stepping into the “Star Wars” universe comes with great responsibility. Levy acknowledged the pressure to meet audience expectations and create something original, noting,
- “Starfighter” is not a sequel or prequel.
- It features no legacy characters.
- Explores uncharted time periods within the galaxy.
He emphasized a determination to deliver a fresh narrative that avoids feeling derivative. The guiding principle provided by Lucasfilm’s Kathleen Kennedy was simple yet pivotal: create a story that is “original, warm-hearted, and fun.” Levy is committed to ensuring that “Star Wars: Starfighter” brings delight to fans and newcomers alike.
