Of the three feature films announced at Star Wars Celebration 2023, the biggest surprise was that Daisy Ridley, who starred in the sequel trilogy, would be returning as Jedi Master Rey. After the release of Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker in 2019, many fans thought that it marked the end of the main franchise. However, the success of shows like The Mandalorian, The Bad Batch, and The Book of Boba Fett proved that there were still stories to tell in the Star Wars universe.
At Star Wars Celebration 2023, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy announced three new feature films, each set in a different era of the Star Wars timeline. One film will explore the “Dawn of the Force” with director James Mangold. Another film, directed by Dave Filoni, will unite aspects of The Mandalorian’s New Republic era. The third film will continue Rey’s story after the events of The Rise of Skywalker, directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
The release dates for the new Star Wars movies are May 22, 2026, December 18, 2026, and December 17, 2027. The Rey film is expected to be released on the May 2026 date. While there is no trailer for the film yet, it is likely that it will be released in theaters and on Disney+.
The project is currently in early pre-production with a director and star attached. Damon Lindelof was initially attached to write the screenplay, but he has since been replaced by Steven Knight. Filming is scheduled to begin in April 2024.
The film will pick up after the events of The Rise of Skywalker and will introduce “The New Jedi Order.” Rey will work to rebuild the Jedi Order after defeating Emperor Palpatine and the First Order.
Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is directing the film, making her the first female director of a Star Wars feature film. Steven Knight is writing the screenplay, and Kathleen Kennedy will serve as executive producer.
So far, Daisy Ridley is the only confirmed cast member for the film. It is unclear whether other actors from the sequel trilogy, such as John Boyega and Oscar Isaac, will also return. There is speculation that characters like Rose Tico and Maz Kanata could make a return, as well as the possibility of introducing a teenage version of Grogu from The Mandalorian.
While no sequels have been announced, it is likely that the film will lead to more projects in “The New Jedi Order” era.
All of Rey’s previous adventures from the sequel trilogy are available to stream on Disney+.
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