JJ Abrams Returns To Star Wars, Directing Episode IX
Originally, the ninth episode of Star Wars — the third chapter to the sequel trilogy — was to be directed by Colin Trevorrow. It was hoped the director of Jurassic World could bring a bang-up finale to this new tale, but reports of script problems forced his exit. Fans were with him up until his universally panned The Book of Henry came out; now they’re not sure about him either.
He might’ve just been a bad fit, but when you look at the record, Kathleen Kennedy has thrown out a LOT of people: Josh Trank, Gareth Edwards, Rian Johnson, Phil Lord, Chris Miller, and now Treverrow. It’s beginning to appear like no one can please her. So who does that leave? Nothing left but to get Abrams back on the phone. Lucasfilm announced today he’s been hired again.
JJ Abrams’ take on Star Wars, Episode VII: The Force Awakens, was controversial. Some Star Warsians enjoyed how much the flick authentically felt like a classic movie from the OT, while others rejected it for the same reason. The concern is, we’re up to our ninth movie and we will need something fresh and new — and this guy has played the franchises he’s gotten control of incredibly safe so far. Star Trek: Into Darkness was little more than a retread of Wrath of Khan and Force Awakens was largely a pastiche of plot elements from previous SW films.
They’re still figuring out the script for Episode IX and the management changeover means it’ll just take longer. Originally planned for May of 2019, Star Wars Episode IX will now be released December 20, 2019.