Star Wars: Starfighter: Unpacking the Fresh Galactic Adventure and Its Star-Studded Cast

Imagine being Matt Smith, gearing up for your next big role in a galaxy far, far away. You’re not just memorizing lines; you’re meticulously trying on costumes, day after day, making sure that cape or those boots feel just right. That’s precisely what the former Doctor Who star has been doing, offering a rare peek behind the curtain of the highly anticipated Star Wars: Starfighter as he prepares to finally join the set this December.

TL;DR

• Star Wars: Starfighter is a brand-new, standalone film, breaking from the sequel/prequel mold, set to release on May 28, 2027.
• Director Shawn Levy (Deadpool & Wolverine) is crafting a fresh story with new characters, aiming for the spirit of big-hearted adventure and levity reminiscent of A New Hope.
• Ryan Gosling leads an ensemble cast including Matt Smith, Mia Goth, and Amy Adams, with Smith reportedly playing one of the film's villains and joining filming in December.

A Fresh Start in a Galaxy Far, Far Away: What Shawn Levy's Vision Means for Fans

For years, Star Wars fans have journeyed through prequels, sequels, and spin-offs, each adding layers to an already rich canon. But what if the next big screen adventure threw out the rulebook and started fresh? That's exactly what director Shawn Levy is doing with Star Wars: Starfighter.

Levy, known for hit projects like Deadpool & Wolverine and Stranger Things, is at the helm of a film described as an "all-new non-sequel, non-prequel adventure" (Source: Collider, "Shawn Levy Doubles Down on How His 'Star Wars' Movie Is Different," November 7, 2025). This marks a significant departure, as Starfighter will be the first Star Wars movie since 1977's original to not directly follow or precede existing storylines. It's a bold move, and one Levy is clearly passionate about.

Unveiling Shawn Levy's Cinematic Inspirations for Starfighter's Distinct Tone

Levy recently shared his excitement, stating, "It is surreal and awesome every day walking onto this set, to have made up a new and original Star Wars story that is neither a sequel nor a prequel to anything" (Source: Entertainment Weekly, "Shawn Levy Says Star Wars: Starfighter Is 'Neither a Sequel nor a Prequel'," November 10, 2025). He emphasizes that while the movie "inherits legacy themes," it's truly "trying to give Star Wars [fans] — and just movie audiences — something fresh, something new."

His North Star for the film's tone? The original A New Hope. Levy aims for "a spirit of play and big-hearted adventure with moments of real levity that, frankly, A New Hope had in a revolutionary way." This suggests a return to the classic blend of wonder, humor, and thrilling action that defined the saga's origins. It’s an exciting prospect for fans eager for new tales.

Behind the Camera Magic: Crafting Starfighter's Visceral and Visually Groundbreaking Experience

To bring this fresh vision to life, Levy has teamed up with acclaimed cinematographer Claudio Miranda. Miranda's previous work includes visually stunning films like Life of Pi and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, as well as the high-octane action of Top Gun: Maverick and F1.

Levy showered praise on Miranda, calling him "a huge gift to a Star Wars movie." He highlighted Miranda's unique ability to design innovative camera platforms and think about lenses in groundbreaking ways, all aimed at making Starfighter "break some new ground visually and be a visceral kinetic ride." Miranda's expertise in "putting people in the action in a visceral way... in that cockpit, in that driver's seat" promises an immersive cinematic experience unlike any other in the Star Wars universe. Source: Collider, "Shawn Levy Doubles Down on How His 'Star Wars' Movie Is Different," November 7, 2025.

Meet the New Faces Taking Flight in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

The cast for Star Wars: Starfighter is nothing short of stellar, featuring some of Hollywood's most sought-after talent. Ryan Gosling leads the charge, and his excitement for the project is palpable. He shared his enthusiasm at the 2025 Star Wars Celebration, praising the "great story with great and original characters... so much heart and adventure" (Source: CBR, "Shawn Levy’s Star Wars Movie Will Stay True To The Source Material," November 7, 2025).

Joining Gosling are a remarkable ensemble, including Flynn Gray, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Daniel Ings, Jamael Westman, and Amy Adams. While plot specifics remain under tighter wraps than Death Star plans, we know the story is set five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker. It will reportedly focus on Gosling's lead character protecting his young nephew, played by Flynn Gray, from "evil pursuers" (Source: CinemaBlend, "Matt Smith Is Preparing to Enter ‘Star Wars’ Later This Year," November 5, 2025).

Matt Smith's Villainous Turn and His Intricate Path to the Star Wars Universe

One of the most intriguing casting announcements is Matt Smith, who is reportedly stepping into a villainous role. Smith himself confirmed his involvement, revealing that he'll begin filming in December 2025. This comes months after principal photography officially kicked off in the UK in late August (Source: ScreenRant, "Matt Smith Shares When He Will Begin Filming Star Wars: Starfighter," November 5, 2025).

Smith's late start has sparked some speculation about the size of his role. However, the actor clarified that he’s been deeply involved in "trying to find a costume, and sometimes you don’t know if you love a costume until you’ve worn it for a couple of days" (Source: A Rabbit's Foot interview via Star Wars News Net, "Filming Has Been Ongoing for Star Wars: Starfighter Since Late August, Yet Matt Smith [...] Has Still Not Shot a Frame of Footage on the Set," November 6, 2025). This meticulous process suggests a significant, carefully crafted character, rather than a fleeting appearance.

Mia Goth is also rumored to be portraying another antagonist, suggesting Starfighter will feature multiple formidable foes for our heroes to contend with. Interestingly, this isn't Smith's first dance with Star Wars; he was previously cast in an undisclosed role for The Rise of Skywalker but ultimately didn't appear in the film. Now, his official journey into the saga begins, promising a compelling performance.

Navigating Production Realities: Understanding Filming Timelines and Character Development

The fact that Matt Smith is joining filming in December, several months into principal photography, might lead some to believe his role is minor. However, the emphasis on his costume development suggests the opposite. Major villains often have elaborate designs that require extensive testing and collaboration, delaying their on-set presence but ensuring their impact. This meticulous attention to "the look" indicates a character crucial enough to warrant such a dedicated pre-production phase, implying a substantial role rather than a brief cameo.

There are also rumors, originating from unofficial production listings, that cameras for Starfighter might stop rolling in December. While exciting, this should be taken with a grain of salt. Past Star Wars productions, like The Mandalorian & Grogu (five months of filming) and The Rise of Skywalker (six months), typically require longer schedules. A rapid wrap-up for a project of this scale would be unusually swift, highlighting the complexities and variable nature of film production schedules that depend on many factors beyond initial filming dates.

"We're really trying to sort of take that tone as a North Star every day. My crew, my DP, Claudio Miranda, Gosling is my kind of central collaborator in the lead role. It's certainly been a dream come true. My 10-year-old self is on set with me every day."

— Shawn Levy, Director of Star Wars: Starfighter (Source: Collider) A Director's Lifelong Dream Takes Flight: From Homages to the Real Deal

Shawn Levy's connection to Star Wars runs deep, long before he was handed the keys to his own galactic adventure. He candidly admits, "Star Wars has always been the defining influence on my filmmaking sensibility" (Source: Entertainment Weekly, "Shawn Levy Says Star Wars: Starfighter Is 'Neither a Sequel nor a Prequel'," November 10, 2025). This isn't just talk; his past work is peppered with nods to the saga.

For example, in his time-traveling sci-fi film The Adam Project, starring Ryan Reynolds, Levy intentionally included an action sequence reminiscent of Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa's speeder chase in Return of the Jedi. Reynolds' character also wields a staff that Levy describes as "a little bit like a lightsaber." This long-standing admiration now culminates in his dream come true, bringing a genuine fan's perspective to the franchise.

Levy also credits his experience on Stranger Things for teaching him the art of secrecy, which proved invaluable in keeping major casting news, like Ryan Gosling's involvement, under wraps for a considerable period. "Stranger Things taught me to keep my mouth shut," he quipped (Source: CBR, "Shawn Levy’s Star Wars Movie Will Stay True To The Source Material," November 7, 2025). This discretion allowed the team to build anticipation and control the narrative around this exciting new chapter in the Star Wars universe.

What This All Means for Star Wars Fans Awaiting a New Saga

So, what's the big picture for you, the dedicated Star Wars enthusiast? Star Wars: Starfighter isn't just another entry; it's a significant marker in the franchise's evolution. Here are the key takeaways:

• A Truly Original Narrative: Get ready for a fresh storyline with entirely new characters and a timeline distinct from previous sagas. This is a chance for Star Wars to explore uncharted territory without the weight of established lore.
• Back to Basics Tone: Expect a film that aims to capture the thrilling, adventurous, and light-hearted spirit of A New Hope, balancing serious stakes with moments of levity and wonder.
• Visually Stunning Action: With cinematographer Claudio Miranda onboard, anticipate a movie that pushes visual boundaries and delivers incredibly visceral, immersive action sequences, especially involving the "starfighter" element hinted at in the title.
• Star-Powered Ensemble: Ryan Gosling leads a cast filled with talent, including Matt Smith and Mia Goth in reportedly villainous roles, promising dynamic performances and compelling new antagonists.
• A Passionate Director's Vision: Shawn Levy, a lifelong Star Wars fan, is pouring his cinematic influences and love for the saga into this project, ensuring a film made with genuine reverence and innovative spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Star Wars: Starfighter When is Star Wars: Starfighter being released? The movie is scheduled to blast into theaters on May 28, 2027. Who is directing Star Wars: Starfighter? Shawn Levy, known for directing Deadpool & Wolverine and producing/directing for Stranger Things, is at the helm. Is Star Wars: Starfighter a sequel or prequel? No, it's an all-new, standalone adventure with fresh characters and a new timeline, set five years after The Rise of Skywalker. Who is writing Star Wars: Starfighter? Jonathan Tropper (The Adam Project) is credited as a writer. Some sources also list George Lucas. Who is in the cast of Star Wars: Starfighter? The ensemble cast includes Ryan Gosling, Matt Smith, Flynn Gray, Mia Goth, Amy Adams, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Daniel Ings, and Jamael Westman. Sources

• CinemaBlend, "Matt Smith Is Preparing to Enter ‘Star Wars’ Later This Year," November 5, 2025.
• Collider, "Shawn Levy Doubles Down on How His 'Star Wars' Movie Is Different," November 7, 2025.
• CBR, "Shawn Levy’s Star Wars Movie Will Stay True To The Source Material," November 7, 2025.
• Entertainment Weekly, "Shawn Levy Says Star Wars: Starfighter Is 'Neither a Sequel nor a Prequel'," November 10, 2025.
• IGN, "Star Wars: Starfighter Actor Matt Smith Reveals His Filming Schedule for the Upcoming Lucasfilm and Disney Movie," November 6, 2025.
• ScreenRant, "Matt Smith Shares When He Will Begin Filming Star Wars: Starfighter," November 5, 2025.
• Star Wars News Net, "Filming Has Been Ongoing for Star Wars: Starfighter Since Late August, Yet Matt Smith [...] Has Still Not Shot a Frame of Footage on the Set," November 6, 2025.