Rian Johnson

With ‘The Last Jedi’ not even in theaters yet and a final third (or twelfth) film a couple of years off, it was a pretty major shock when Disney announced that they were developing a brand new ‘Star Wars’ trilogy.  (Then again, considering what a cash cow the franchise is, it shouldn’t be that big a shock.)  It was also surprising that, with ‘The Last Jedi’ still unseen by fans, its helmer Rian Johnson had already been selected as the visionary behind the new trilogy.

Obviously, there are a million questions for all involved.  While Johnson is busy putting the finishing touches on ‘The Last Jedi’ he did break his silence to address the announcement.  Unfortunately, if you were hoping for any major scoops, you’ll be disappointed.  But Johnson showed a sense of humor when he returned to Twitter after an absence.

It’s obviously WAY too early to start speculating on this new trilogy.  But the pressure is on.  While Johnson directed this installment, he will not be behind the camera on the yet-to-be-entitled third and final film in this cycle.  (J.J. Abrams will– controversially– be back to close out that chapter.)

Johnson has the necessary vote of confidence from perhaps the most important figure in this realm, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy who said:

“We all loved working with Rian on The Last Jedi.  He’s a creative force, and watching him craft The Last Jedi from start to finish was one of the great joys of my career. Rian will do amazing things with the blank canvas of this new trilogy.”

At this time, it is planned that Johnson will write and direct all three new movies, which he stated will explore a corner of the ‘Star Wars’ universe that has yet to be depicted.

What do you think?  Are you excited to see ‘Star Wars’ branching off for years to come?