Hayden Christensen, the actor revered (and debated) for his portrayal of Anakin Skywalker, recently shared a pair of standout picks when asked about his favourite films in the Star Wars galaxy. From the original trilogy and into the new era, here’s what he chose—and what it tells us about the man behind the suit. 🎬 His Picks Why The Empire Strikes Back Tops His List The Empire Strikes Back has long been hailed by many fans (and critics) as the pinnacle of the Star Wars saga: darker tone, richer character arcs, the unforgettable moment of “I am your father,” and a cliffhanger that changed the way sequels were made. It makes sense that an actor like Christensen—who himself lived through one of cinema’s most infamous sequel arcs—would connect strongly with this film. For someone deeply invested in Skywalker lore, choosing this film signals admiration for its risk-taking, emotional stakes, and…
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Lucasfilm Tells Shawn Levy: “Do Something New” for His Star Wars Movie
It looks like Lucasfilm is finally ready to chart a new course for Star Wars films — and director Shawn Levy just gave us the clearest confirmation yet. In a new interview with KCRW’s The Business, the Starfighter director revealed that Lucasfilm has specifically encouraged him not to use existing Star Wars characters in his upcoming movie. According to Levy, every time he’s floated the idea of borrowing a familiar face from the films, he gets the same answer: “Every time I’ve asked, ‘Should I use this character that was maybe in that movie?’ Every time it’s, ‘You know what? People have seen that. Do something new.’” Source That’s a surprising — and frankly refreshing — creative directive. For years, new Star Wars projects have often leaned heavily on legacy characters, cameos, and nostalgia-driven storytelling. Whether it’s Luke Skywalker showing up in The Mandalorian or familiar Clone Wars characters weaving…
Rian Johnson’s Star Wars Trilogy Is “Effectively Dead,” Says The Hollywood Reporter
It’s the end of a long-running Star Wars mystery:Director Rian Johnson’s planned Star Wars trilogy — announced all the way back in 2017 — is now “effectively dead,” according to The Hollywood Reporter’s new profile on the filmmaker. While Johnson is currently busy celebrating the premiere of his new film Wake Up Dead Man, the article finally gives us a clear update on the trilogy many fans assumed had quietly vanished into hyperspace. Now, we have confirmation: it’s not happening. And maybe never really was. From The Last Jedi to “What Could Have Been” Johnson’s relationship with Star Wars began with The Last Jedi (2017), one of the most talked-about and debated films in the franchise’s history. THR notes that Johnson created TLJ in what he describes as a “beautiful, fearless little bubble,” focused entirely on the creative work and not the outside noise. That noise, of course, arrived later…
The Acolyte Creator Leslye Headland Says She Has “No Regrets” — And Why That Matters for Star Wars
After nearly a year of silence following the cancellation of Star Wars: The Acolyte, series creator Leslye Headland has finally broken her silence in a new and remarkably candid interview with The Wrap. And if there’s one thing she makes clear from the start, it’s this: “I love my show, I have no regrets, and I know that it was wonderful.” For a series that sparked passionate debate across the fandom, Headland’s comments offer the clearest picture yet of what went into the show — and what ultimately led to its abrupt cancellation. “The Acolyte Was Always a Major Risk” Headland doesn’t shy away from acknowledging that The Acolyte was a gamble from day one. Rather than leaning on familiar Star Wars elements, the show plunged into the High Republic era, a timeline that had never been depicted in live action before. “It was a new part of the timeline….
Happy 62nd Birthday to Ming-Na Wen — The Voice, the Warrior, and the Legend
Today, we celebrate the birthday of an absolute Star Wars icon: Ming-Na Wen, who turns 62 years old and continues to be one of the most unstoppable forces in the galaxy — on-screen and off. Whether you know her as Fennec Shand, the elite assassin from The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, and The Bad Batch, or as the voice behind legendary characters in Disney and Marvel projects, Ming-Na Wen has carved out a career that spans generations, fandoms, and entire cinematic universes. Quite literally — she’s one of the few actors who has appeared in Star Wars, Marvel, and Disney animation, earning her the nickname “The Queen of Franchise Multiverses.” That’s power. That’s range. That’s Ming-Na Wen. Fennec Shand: The Elite Assassin Fans Can’t Get Enough Of Ming-Na’s role as Fennec Shand instantly captured the attention of the Star Wars fanbase. Sleek, deadly, fiercely loyal (when she chooses…
Daisy Ridley to Lead Action-Thriller ‘The Good Samaritan’ — But What It Means for Star Wars Fans
The ever-versatile Daisy Ridley — best known to Star Wars followers as Rey — has signed on to star in an upcoming action-thriller titled The Good Samaritan, directed by Pierre Morel (of Taken fame). theplaylist.netIn the film’s logline: Ridley plays Dr Rosalind Carver, an entrepreneur who rescues a wounded man off the coast of Indonesia, only to find herself thrust into a deadly conspiracy involving pirates, corrupt officials and disappearing yachts. Punch Drunk CriticsProduction is expected to begin spring 2026 on the Gold Coast / Australia. GeekTyrant Why Star Wars Fans Should Care We know Daisy Ridley as Rey — the woman who helped reshape the Skywalker legacy in the sequel trilogy. Her pivot into hard-edged action-thrillers shows a career evolution that goes beyond the galaxy far, far away.But for fans of the Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker era and the upcoming next chapter (whatever timeline it lands in),…
Happy Birthday to the Man Behind the Mask of Kylo Ren: Adam Driver Turns 42!
Today we celebrate the birthday of one of the most compelling actors to join the Star Wars galaxy in the modern era—Adam Driver, the man who brought Kylo Ren to life with a mix of rage, vulnerability, and that unmistakable, simmering intensity that made the character unforgettable. Whether you loved Kylo as the conflicted villain of the sequel trilogy, admired Ben Solo’s final heroic turn, or simply appreciated Driver’s raw acting power, there’s no denying the impact he’s had on the franchise. Few modern Star Wars performances have sparked as much debate, analysis, and “wait… is he actually hot?” discourse across the fandom. A Complex Villain for a New Era Kylo Ren could have easily been a one-note character—a masked dark side enforcer trying too hard to be Darth Vader 2.0. But thanks to Adam Driver’s ability to balance anger, insecurity, and emotional depth, Kylo became something else entirely: a…
Rosario Dawson Teases a Lighter, More Joyful Ahsoka Season 2
If you thought Ahsoka Tano was all gravitas, lightsabers and stoic Jedi-resolve in Season 1 of Ahsoka, you’re in for a fresh twist. In a recent interview, Rosario Dawson revealed that the character will be entering Season 2 with more joy, connection and community than ever before. SFFGazette.com Dawson explained: “She had more of a strong gravitas at the beginning, and she was a little bit more unflappable. And I’m liking that she’s relaxing, she’s kind of getting back into her joy. I think those moments with Hayden and Anakin were so important for her to heal something so she could be more present.” SFFGazette.comAnd she added:“I’m really glad that we get to add more joy into her life and see her relax a little bit more and work in community a little bit more than she has.” LRMonline Here’s why this shift matters — both for the story and…
Millie Bobby Brown Considers Tattoo of Han & Leia’s Iconic “I Love You” / “I Know” Exchange
What happens when a major pop culture actress, a Star Wars classic line, and a meaningful personal moment collide? The result: Millie Bobby Brown revealed she’s seriously thinking about getting a tattoo of the legendary exchange from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back — the moment when Han Solo tells Princess Leia “I love you,” and she responds “I know.” The actress says the line is “so cute,” and that she and husband Jake Bongiovi even play-quote it to each other. EW.com Why This Tattoo Idea Resonates Brown already wears her fandom openly — with a growing tattoo collection that includes the number 11 (a nod to her TV character), butterflies, a rose, and her husband’s initials. So the fact that she’s considering immortalizing a Star Wars line makes perfect sense: it blends personal meaning, pop-culture fandom, and relationship connection. She explained: “Star Wars. ‘I love you.’ ‘I know.’ ……
Is Mark Hamill Playing the King of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda Movie? Here’s What We Actually Know
A rumor is sweeping across social media faster than a cucco on caffeine: Mark Hamill is reportedly playing the King of Hyrule in the upcoming The Legend of Zelda live-action movie.It’s the kind of casting news that instantly sounds right. Hamill has the voice, the gravitas, the geek-culture royalty status, and the energy to rule Hyrule with authority (and probably a few well-timed dad jokes). But here’s the important part: this casting has not been officially confirmed by Nintendo or Sony. So let’s break down what’s real, what’s speculation, and why fans are already celebrating anyway. The Legend of Zelda Movie: What’s Official So Far Nintendo’s live-action Zelda film is very real — and very high-profile. Here’s what has been confirmed: The project is massive, and for good reason. After The Super Mario Bros. Movie shattered the box office, Nintendo clearly wants another cinematic hit. Where the Mark Hamill Rumor…
John Boyega Says He Knows Nothing About the New Jedi Order Movie — And Drops a Perfect Tom Holland Joke
John Boyega is back at it with the best Star Wars energy imaginable.During a panel at Liverpool Comic Con, the actor behind Finn was asked—again—whether he knows anything about the upcoming New Jedi Order movie starring Daisy Ridley as Rey. His answer?Peak Boyega. Peak chaos. Peak honesty. “Trust me I’m like the Tom Holland of Star Wars, once I know something I’ll let you know.” Somewhere out there, Lucasfilm PR felt a disturbance in the Force. Boyega’s “Tom Holland of Star Wars” Quote Is Instantly Legendary If there’s one thing Boyega has mastered over the years, it’s turning every interview into a mix of sincerity and stand-up comedy. Comparing himself to Tom Holland—the king of accidental Marvel spoilers—is perfect. He’s basically saying: Honestly, respect. But the bigger takeaway?Boyega insists he knows nothing about the film… at least not yet. So What Does This Mean for Finn in the Post-Episode IX…
John Boyega Wants Finn and Poe Back – But Only on the Big Screen
The sequel trilogy bromance might not be over just yet—but according to John Boyega, there’s only one place he wants to see Finn and Poe reunite: the cinema. Speaking at Liverpool Comic Con, Boyega made it clear that while he loves the idea of stepping back into Finn’s boots, there’s a condition attached. A big one. “Me and Oscar are very stubborn and we believe the bromance should only be on the big screen.” And honestly? That might be the most Finn-and-Poe statement ever. The Finn–Poe Bromance: A Highlight of the Sequel Era If there’s one thing all Star Wars fans can agree on, it’s that Finn and Poe had chemistry—real chemistry. From the moment Poe handed Finn his jacket and said, “It looks good on you,” the fandom collectively lost its mind. Their dynamic brought levity, charm, and genuine warmth to the sequels. It felt natural. It felt fun….
Oscar Isaac Says He’d Return to Star Wars—But Only If Disney “Figures Out” Its Free-Speech Issues
When Oscar Isaac last appeared in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, he looked like a man ready to put the galaxy behind him. And now, years later, it seems he really meant it. The actor has made it clear he’s not coming back to a galaxy far, far away — at least not until Disney gets its house in order when it comes to, as he puts it, “free speech.” The Galaxy According to Oscar Isaac In a recent chat on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Isaac opened up about his post-Star Wars outlook and didn’t shy away from some pointed remarks about Disney. When asked whether he’d ever return as the lovable Resistance pilot Poe Dameron, Isaac didn’t dance around it: “I think I’d have to see Disney figure out its free speech problem before I’d consider going back.” That’s about as subtle as a thermal detonator. The comment follows…
Rian Johnson Says Star Wars Fandom Division Is “Part of the Fun”
Star Wars fans have argued for decades — about prequels vs. sequels, Luke vs. Rey, or even the correct viewing order — but according to director Rian Johnson, that’s not a problem. In fact, he believes it’s part of what makes the fandom so special. Speaking recently, Johnson reflected on the passionate, often divided nature of the Star Wars community. “The notion that Star Wars has been this kind of Shangri-La, united fandom, and that nothing could split that apart is false,” he said. “The reality is Star Wars has always been something that has meant different things to different people. And I think that’s part of the fun and the passion of it as fans — arguing about it respectfully.” It’s a statement that feels especially relevant as the franchise nears its 50th anniversary. Star Wars Has Never Been One Thing Johnson’s comments cut to the core of what…
John Williams to Score His 30th Steven Spielberg Film – A Legendary Collaboration Continues
Hollywood legends John Williams and Steven Spielberg are teaming up once again — this time for Spielberg’s upcoming UFO-themed film set for release in 2026. This project marks their 30th collaboration, extending a creative partnership that has defined the sound of cinema for nearly half a century. A Partnership That Defined Movie Magic The story of Williams and Spielberg’s collaboration began in 1974 with The Sugarland Express, and since then, the two have become an inseparable part of Hollywood history. Together, they’ve shaped the emotional and musical tone of generations through unforgettable scores such as Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, and Schindler’s List. Now, at 93 years old, John Williams continues to compose with the same brilliance and energy that made him a five-time Academy Award winner and one of the most decorated composers in history. Spielberg’s next film — still untitled — will explore themes of…
The Canceled The Hunt for Ben Solo: A Star Wars What-Could-Have-Been
When Adam Driver revealed that he and Steven Soderbergh had quietly developed a new Star Wars film centered on his character Ben Solo, fans sat up and took notice. But what started as one of the most anticipated continuations after the sequel trilogy turned into one of the most frustrating “almosts” in Star Wars lore. The working title: The Hunt for Ben Solo. The story: Ben Solo alive and missing after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, his fate’s a mystery, and the galaxy’s obsession is on. The team: Soderbergh directing, Driver starring, and Scott Z. Burns penning a reportedly finalised script. What’s shocking is how far the project got before it died. Reports say the script was complete, the budget and start date proposed, Lucasfilm had approved internally—but when it hit the desk of Bob Iger and Alan Bergman at Disney, it was rejected. Their reason?…
Rian Johnson Still Loves Star Wars — and Says He’d Be “The Happiest Person” to Return
A Filmmaker’s Renewed Affection for the Galaxy In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Rian Johnson opened up about his affection for the Star Wars universe—despite stepping away from it after directing The Last Jedi. According to the talk, Johnson remarked: “I love Star Wars. And if someday it makes sense to come back to it, for both of us, it would be the most wonderful thing in the world.” That statement comes amid a creative moment for Johnson: he’s prepping his next project, a ’70s-style paranoid sci-fi thriller, but he clearly hasn’t shut the door on a Star Wars return. What’s Next for Rian Johnson Though Johnson is currently focused on brand-new genre territory—he describes his upcoming film as “light sci-fi” with a nod to classic thrillers—he emphasizes that the Star Wars “cog” in his head remains turning. Here is what that means in practical terms: What This Means…
The Hunt for Ben Solo: The Canceled Star Wars Sequel That Nearly Redeemed Kylo Ren
In a galaxy full of untold stories, one nearly made it past the Disney gates: The Hunt for Ben Solo — a bold, character-driven Star Wars sequel that would have resurrected Adam Driver’s conflicted Jedi-turned-Sith-turned-savior for one final redemption arc. According to newly surfaced details and fan discussions lighting up X (formerly Twitter), this project was meant to pick up right after The Rise of Skywalker, diving deep into Ben Solo’s survival, guilt, and search for peace. But in true Star Wars irony, the same studio that brought back Emperor Palpatine with a single line — “somehow, Palpatine returned” — decided this resurrection was a step too far. Now, The Hunt for Ben Solo has become the greatest Star Wars film never made. What Was The Hunt for Ben Solo? Imagine this: Ben Solo — son of Leia Organa and Han Solo, grandson of Darth Vader — awakens in the…
Giancarlo Esposito Heads to Comic Con Stockholm Winter – A Must-Attend for Fans of Star Wars & Beyond
A Legendary Guest Lands in Stockholm 🎬 Convention-goers, clear your calendars! Giancarlo Esposito, celebrated for his roles in The Mandalorian, Better Call Saul, and Breaking Bad, is set to appear at Comic Con Stockholm Winter on November 1–2 2025 at the Stockholmsmässan. If you’ve ever wanted a chance to meet the actor behind characters like Moff Gideon or Gus Fring, this is your opportunity. From photo ops and autograph sessions to panel talks and exclusive insights, Giancarlo’s presence brings a major boost to the event. Why His Appearance Matters Giancarlo Esposito’s career is a masterclass in versatility. Whether he’s leading a crime syndicate in Breaking Bad or commanding Imperial forces in Star Wars, his performances resonate deeply across fandoms.^1 With big-screen roles mounting — including upcoming appearances in major franchises — his arrival in Stockholm adds serious star power to the con lineup. For Star Wars fans especially, Esposito’s appearance is a highlight: his journey from small-screen…
Bryce Dallas Howard Is Back in the Director’s Chair for Ahsoka’s Next Chapter
Bryce Dallas Howard coming aboard Ahsoka Season 2 as a director isn’t just a star cameo—it’s more like having a seasoned Star Wars captain navigate key scenes. She already has credits across the Star Wars galaxy, and her involvement now signals that those two episodes might carry extra weight. Her Star Wars Direction Credits: More Than Just Ahsoka Let’s talk about her Star Wars credits—because she has more than just one: So when Howard steps into Ahsoka, she’s not new to the Star Wars set. She’s practically been hanging backstage, picking up know-how. What Her Episodes Might Feel Like Given her track record—and how emotional Skeleton Crew’s “Zero Friends Again” turned out—her Ahsoka segments may lean more into: And yes, if romance shows up a little more than before, I won’t be surprised. Howard’s description (“beautiful, thrilling, romantic”) suggests she’s weaving in layers the show hasn’t always spelled out. Why…
Rick Moranis Returns from Retirement as Dark Helmet in Spaceballs 2
Big news for fans of intergalactic parody: Rick Moranis is officially coming out of (nearly three decades of) retirement to reprise his iconic role as Dark Helmet in Spaceballs 2. This return is especially significant given Moranis’s long hiatus from live-action films. His last on-screen appearance was back in Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves (1997). Since then, he’s largely stepped away from acting to focus on his family, preferring behind-the-scenes work and occasional voice roles. What We Know About Spaceballs 2 Cast & Returnees Production & Format Why Moranis’s Return Matters Iconic Role, Iconic Actor Dark Helmet is arguably one of Spaceballs’ most recognizable figures—an absurd parody of dark lords in sci-fi lore. Having Moranis return restores a major part of the film’s charm and continuity. World-Building & Nostalgia Longtime fans have long hoped for Moranis’s return. Mel Brooks himself had previously stated he would not make a proper sequel unless…
Hondo Ohnaka Is Back—and Could Swing into Live Action Sooner Than You Think
Big news for Star Wars fans: Legendary voice actor Jim Cummings recently confirmed that Hondo Ohnaka, the loveable pirate-rogue from Star Wars: The Clone Wars, is officially “not done yet.” That’s right—Hondo’s next adventure is brewing. Hondo’s Return: What We Know Cummings dropped the teaser during a promo event for Andreas Deja: 30 Years of Disney Villains, telling fans to “stay tuned.” His wink—not subtle in the least—suggests Hondo may soon resurface, possibly in the upcoming animated sequel Maul: Shadow Lord. Given Hondo’s dynamic history with Maul in The Clone Wars, the pairing would be dramaturgically delicious. Where Might Hondo Land Next? 1. Maul: Shadow Lord (Animated) This upcoming Disney+ series (2026) follows Darth Maul’s criminal empire-building post-Clone Wars. It’s the most natural fit for Hondo—after all, he’s tangled with Maul before and always lands back in shady—but hilarious—circumstances. 2. A Standalone Hondo Animated Special Lucasfilm could go flashier and…
Meet the Voices Driving Star Wars: Beyond Victory—Stars New & Familiar Alike
Hold onto your podracers, folks—Star Wars: Beyond Victory just got a vocal upgrade. The brand-new mixed reality playset has officially revealed its cast, spotlighting a fun mix of fresh talent, clever comedic chops, and beloved legacy voices returning to familiar roles. A Voice Cast Genetically Engineered for Immersion In the reveal trailer, the voices behind the characters instantly set the tone—playful, impactful, and unmistakably Star Wars. Why This Cast Matters for Fans (and Why You Should Care) What This Signals for Beyond Victory This isn’t a stunt cast. Every actor was clearly chosen to elevate the world of Beyond Victory—a podracing, imaginative, immersive Star Wars adventure built for Meta Quest 3 and 3S. Whether you’re racing, storytelling, or sandbox-building, the voices you’ll hear are tailor-made for pulling you deeper into the galaxy. Final Thought When you fire up Star Wars: Beyond Victory on October 7, you’re not just hearing a…
Celebrating Timothy Zahn: The Architect Behind Thrawn and Mara Jade
Today we raise a glass of Corellian brandy (or maybe just caf) to Timothy Zahn, the man who gave the Star Wars Expanded Universe some of its most unforgettable characters and stories. Best known for creating Grand Admiral Thrawn and Mara Jade, Zahn’s work has left a lasting mark on Star Wars lore, bridging the galaxy between Return of the Jedi and the modern era. Heir to the Empire: A New Dawn for Star Wars Books Back in 1991, when many thought Star Wars was finished, Timothy Zahn dropped Heir to the Empire. This bestselling novel not only revived fan interest in the galaxy far, far away but also introduced Grand Admiral Thrawn, a calculating Imperial genius unlike any villain we’d seen before. The book kicked off the Thrawn Trilogy, which includes Dark Force Rising and The Last Command. For many fans, this series was the Star Wars sequel trilogy…