Han Solo directors exit Star Wars spinoff
In a shocking turn of events, directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller have left the Han Solo spinoff movie.
Lucasfilm announced on Tuesday that the directing duo would no longer be taking part in the Star Wars standalone film, which they’ve been working on as of 2015.
“Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are talented filmmakers who have assembled an incredible cast and crew, but it’s become clear that we had different creative visions on this film, and we’ve decided to part ways. A new director will be announced soon,” Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy stated.
“Unfortunately, our vision and process weren’t aligned with our partners on this project. We normally aren’t fans of the phrase ‘creative differences’ but for once this cliché is true. We are really proud of the amazing and world-class work of our cast and crew,” Lord and Miller said in a statement of their own.
Lord and Miller’s previous screen credits include the 21 Jump Street films and The Lego Movie. Given their rich body of work, the two seemed like a perfect match for the Star Wars universe, especially with Alden Ehrenreich as Han Solo and Donald Glover as Lando Calrissian on-board. Alas, it appears that this match just wasn’t meant to be.
As for who will replace Lord and Miller, three names have already been rumored. Sources claim that Oscar-winner Ron Howard is in contention to take over. This wouldn’t be the only time Howard explored outer space, as he previously directed Apollo 13. Lawrence Kasdan, who worked on The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and The Force Awakens, is also reportedly being considered. Then there’s Joe Johnston, who’s best known for helming Captain America: The First Avenger.
This isn’t the first time a Star Wars movie has endured behind the scenes drama. Rogue One faced significant reshoots, but it still turned out alright. Likewise, Edgar Wright exited Ant-Man, another property owned by Disney, but that film was also a big hit with critics and audiences. Will everything come together for the untitled Han Solo spinoff as well? Who should take over directing duties? In any case, one thing’s for certain: Lord and Miller shot first.
The Han Solo movie hits theaters on May 25, 2018… assuming they hire a new director before then.