New Star Wars Films Face Delays and Progress

The Star Wars franchise is buzzing with activity, as several new movies are in development, though not all are moving at the same pace. Fans have plenty to look forward to, with some projects gaining momentum while others hit roadblocks.

One film locked in for release is The Mandalorian & Grogu, directed by Jon Favreau. It’s set to arrive in theaters on May 22, 2026, bringing the popular Baby Yoda and his protector to the big screen. This project is moving forward steadily, giving fans a clear date to mark on their calendars.

Other directors, including Shawn Levy, James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and Taika Waititi, are also working on their own Star Wars films. Most of these are still in early development, with details trickling out slowly. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on what these projects will bring to the galaxy far, far away.

Shawn Levy’s film, currently titled Starfighter, is picking up speed. Levy, known for Deadpool & Wolverine and Stranger Things, began talks for a Star Wars movie in 2022. Progress paused during the 2023 writers’ strike, but things are now back on track. In mid-2024, Jonathan Tropper, who worked with Levy on The Adam Project, was brought on to write the script. Early this year, Ryan Gosling entered discussions to star, boosting the project’s priority. The story will take place about five to six years after Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, according to Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. It’s slated to follow The Mandalorian & Grogu in the release lineup.

James Mangold’s film is also moving forward. Titled Jedi Prime, it will explore a new era called Dawn of the Jedi, set far back in the franchise’s timeline. Mangold, who directed Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, is crafting a grand, epic tale inspired by classic biblical films. He’s working on the script alongside Beau Willimon, a writer from Andor, with producer Simon Emanuel attached. Mangold is juggling this project with others, including a Bob Dylan biopic and a Swamp Thing film for DC, but Jedi Prime is making steady progress.

Meanwhile, the Rey-focused movie has hit another snag. After losing its original writer, the project has been put on hold, though not canceled. Updates have been scarce, and it’s unclear how it fits into a new trilogy reportedly being developed with writer Simon Kinberg. The constant changes in writers and lack of clear direction have left fans uncertain about Rey’s next chapter.

While some Star Wars films are charging ahead, others remain in limbo. The franchise continues to grow, but not without challenges.

The Star Wars universe is full of potential, but the delays with the Rey movie are disappointing. Fans love her character, and a clear plan for her story would help keep the excitement alive. On the other hand, projects like Jedi Prime and Starfighter sound fresh and bold, which could bring new energy to the franchise. What do you think about the direction of these new Star Wars films? Share your thoughts in the comments below!