Star Wars: Starfighter Production Begins: Ryan Gosling Takes Flight

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By Mister Fantastic

The Force awakens from its theatrical hibernation as Star Wars: Starfighter officially enters production in the UK, with Lucasfilm releasing the first behind-the-scenes glimpse of Ryan Gosling alongside newcomer Flynn Gray. Director Shawn Levy’s standalone adventure promises to explore an entirely new period in Star Wars lore, set five years after The Rise of Skywalker.

Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray in Star Wars: Starfighter (2027)
Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray in Star Wars: Starfighter (2027). Photo by Ed Miller – © 2025 – Lucasfilm

Star Wars Starfighter Production

The Star Wars Starfighter production has attracted an impressive ensemble beyond Gosling’s leading role. Amy Adams, who previously collaborated with Levy on Arrival, reportedly plays Gray’s mother in the film. The cast also features Matt Smith and Mia Goth as antagonists, alongside Aaron Pierre (Rebel Ridge), Simon Bird (The Inbetweeners), and Jamael Westman.

Kathleen KennedyRyan GoslingShawn Levy, and Dave Filoni at an event for Star Wars: Starfighter (2027). © 2025 – Lucasfilm

“From the day Kathy Kennedy called me up, inviting me to develop an original adventure in this incredible Star Wars galaxy, this experience has been a dream come true,” Levy expressed about the Star Wars Starfighter production. The Deadpool & Wolverine director brings his proven blockbuster sensibilities to a galaxy far, far away.

Jonathan Tropper’s Original Vision

Unlike previous sequel trilogy films, Star Wars: Starfighter presents “an entirely original story set in a period of time never before explored in Star Wars”. Written by Jonathan Tropper (The Adam Project), the plot reportedly follows Gosling’s character protecting “a young ward from malevolent forces” in an expansive galactic quest.

Kathleen KennedyRyan GoslingShawn Levy, and Dave Filoni at an event for Star Wars: Starfighter (2027). © 2025 – Lucasfilm

The film marks Lucasfilm’s return to theatrical releases after a seven-year absence, with the May 28, 2027 release date strategically positioned for summer blockbuster season. Producers include Levy and Kathleen Kennedy, with Gosling, Dan Levine, and the McLaglen brothers serving as executive producers.

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