Shawn Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter Promises Stranger Things Vibes

Shawn Levy, who’s just wrapped up work on Deadpool and Wolverine, is now steering his next big project into the Star Wars universe. He’s set to direct Star Wars: Starfighter, and he’s already drawing comparisons between this new sci-fi adventure and his previous work on Stranger Things. Levy reckons the key to handling such a massive franchise is not to get bogged down by the pressure of fan expectations.

If I’ve learned anything on Stranger Things, it’s that you can get intimidated by the scale of franchise expectation. But you will lose your way if that’s your focus. I’ve learned the need to stay rooted in character, and themes and relationships on screen. Yes, there’s spectacle and scale, just like Stranger Things. And of course, Star Wars and Starfighter has spectacle and scale and adventure at a level I’ve never done in my whole career.

He’s keen to keep the story grounded, even with all the big set pieces and action. Levy says,

But like Stranger Things, it’s also very much anchored in a human-scale character-sized story. I think that if I can balance the epic and the intimate the way the Duffers have with Stranger Things, I’ll make a film and an original and new Star Wars adventure that can be really satisfying to fans and audiences.

Fresh Faces and a New Direction

Starfighter is set to feature Ryan Gosling in the lead, with a supporting cast that includes Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Amy Adams, Adam Pierre, and Flynn Gray. Levy has made it clear that this isn’t a sequel or a prequel, but a completely new story within the Star Wars universe. He’s aiming to introduce fresh characters and a new timeline, while still holding onto the classic themes that have made the franchise so popular.

Levy describes the project as an attempt to offer something different for both die-hard Star Wars fans and casual filmgoers. He wants to bring a sense of fun and adventure, along with moments of genuine humour and heart, much like what made A New Hope stand out when it first hit cinemas.

Balancing Spectacle with Heart

While the film promises all the action and visual effects you’d expect from a Star Wars outing, Levy is focused on making sure the story doesn’t lose its emotional core. He’s looking to strike a balance between the grand scale of the universe and the personal journeys of the characters, a blend he feels worked well in Stranger Things.

Levy’s approach is to keep the audience invested in the people at the centre of the story, not just the battles and special effects. He’s hoping that by doing so, Starfighter will stand out as a unique entry in the Star Wars saga, offering both excitement and a bit of heart.

What’s Next for Fans

As Stranger Things wraps up its run with the season five finale, fans can look forward to seeing how Levy brings his signature style to a galaxy far, far away. With a new cast, a fresh storyline, and a director who values both spectacle and substance, Star Wars: Starfighter is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases for locals and sci-fi punters alike.

For those keen to keep up with the latest in the Star Wars universe, there’s plenty more on the horizon, with new films and series in the works. But for now, all eyes are on Levy and his team as they prepare to launch a new adventure that promises to blend the best of epic storytelling with a down-to-earth touch.