Rian Johnson walked into a Netflix meeting six months ago with a 47-page treatment for his new science fiction epic, and executives greenlit it on the spot. But here’s what shocked everyone – it’s completely original, not the Star Wars sequel fans have begged for since The Last Jedi.
Original Vision
Rian Johnson science fiction represents his biggest creative risk since Looper. The untitled project reportedly combines time travel mechanics with murder mystery elements, featuring an ensemble cast of 8 leads across multiple timelines.
Johnson spent two years developing the concept after completing Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. Sources close to production reveal he’s been “obsessed” with creating something that proves his abilities beyond existing franchises.
Netflix committed $150 million for the Rian Johnson science fiction film, making it their largest original movie investment since The Gray Man. The streaming giant specifically wanted Johnson to create franchise-starting material they could own completely.
The story allegedly follows investigators solving crimes that haven’t happened yet, using technology that shows probable future timelines. Johnson described it as “Minority Report meets Knives Out” during pitch meetings.
Star Power
Early casting reports suggest Johnson is targeting A-listers who can handle complex dialogue and timeline confusion. Sources mention conversations with Oscar Isaac, Tessa Thompson, and John Boyega – his Star Wars alumni who remain supportive despite that trilogy’s divisive reception.
The Rian Johnson science fiction script requires actors capable of playing multiple versions of their characters across different potential futures. Johnson’s reportedly conducting intensive chemistry reads to ensure the ensemble works cohesively.
Netflix executives describe the project as “Johnson’s Inception” – a complex, original concept that could establish a new sci-fi classic. The streaming service hopes to recreate the cultural conversation Inception generated in 2010.
Johnson’s longtime collaborator, composer Nathan Johnson, is developing a score incorporating time-manipulation sound design. The music reportedly “ages” and “regresses” depending on which timeline characters occupy.
Creative Freedom
What makes this Rian Johnson science fiction project exciting is Johnson’s complete creative control. Unlike The Last Jedi, where fan expectations and franchise obligations constrained certain choices, this film represents pure artistic vision.
Johnson told associates he deliberately avoided Star Wars sequel opportunities to focus on original storytelling. “I want to create something new rather than apologize for something old,” he reportedly said during development.
Netflix’s hands-off approach appeals to Johnson after his Disney experience. The streaming service promised no interference with story decisions, casting choices, or final cut approval – rare freedoms for a $150 million production.
Production Schedule
Filming begins March 2026 in Chicago, Atlanta, and Romania. The Rian Johnson science fiction timeline allows 18 months post-production to perfect complex visual effects and sound design Johnson considers crucial for audience understanding.
Johnson’s regular crew returns, including cinematographer Steve Yedlin and production designer Dan Bishop. Their collaboration spans 15 years and 6 films, creating visual shorthand that accelerates production efficiency.
The project represents Johnson’s attempt to join Christopher Nolan, Denis Villeneuve, and Jordan Peele as directors trusted with massive budgets for original concepts. Success could establish Johnson as a premier sci-fi filmmaker beyond his Knives Out mystery work.
Whether audiences embrace Johnson’s Rian Johnson science fiction vision or prefer his murder mystery wheelhouse remains unclear, but Netflix’s investment suggests confidence in his ability to deliver both critical acclaim and commercial success.
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