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Simon Kinberg takes the helm for new “Star Wars” trilogy
When the announcement broke that Simon Kinberg had been tapped by Lucasfilm to steer the next “Star Wars” trilogy, it sent shockwaves throughout the industry. Kinberg, a key force behind much of the “X-Men” franchise, is a seasoned writer, producer, and director whose work spans from the successful “XXX: State of the Union” to the blockbuster “Mr. and Mrs. Smith.” But as promising as this pedigree sounds, the choice raised eyebrows both within Lucasfilm and across Hollywood.
A calculated gamble or risky move?
Kinberg’s body of work is impressive by any measure. His films have raked in over $3.3 billion globally, establishing him as a formidable screenwriter and producer. Beyond the “X-Men” films, he’s left his mark on productions like “Cinderella,” ”The Martian,” and Kenneth Branagh’s “Hercule Poirot” series. With such success, it’s easy to see why Lucasfilm considers Kinberg a sensible and safe choice. His unique ability to communicate effectively with film executives about the nuances of franchise filmmaking mitigates their concerns about creative decisions potentially impacting the bottom line.
However, Kinberg’s career has not been without its missteps. “Dark Phoenix,” his directorial debut in 2019, became the lowest-grossing and worst-reviewed film in the ”X-Men” franchise. Additionally, he produced “The New Mutants,” a film plagued by delays and complications following Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox, leaving it as the first major release during the pandemic with underwhelming results. His 2022 spy thriller, ”The 355,” featuring Jessica Chastain, was also a financial disappointment, grossing just $18.9 million worldwide.
Is Lucasfilm taking a chance on Kinberg, hoping for a turnaround in his fortunes? Or do they see something in him that offsets these recent failures?
Deep-rooted connections
A major factor in Kinberg’s hiring is his continued collaboration with Lucasfilm executives Carrie Beck and Dave Filoni. Kinberg worked closely with both on the well-regarded animated series “Star Wars Rebels” between 2014 and 2018, building strong creative relationships. Yet, it was Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy who made the decisive call, inviting Kinberg to create a live-action “Star Wars” film. Kennedy’s confidence in him might stem from his participation in the “Star Wars” brain trust back in 2012, alongside screenwriters Michael Arndt and Lawrence Kasdan. The goal was to brainstorm ideas for Disney’s first three “Star Wars” films, although most of their work was later shelved.
Kinberg, along with director James Mangold, was also commissioned in 2018 to develop a standalone Boba Fett feature. However, due to a series of setbacks following the box office failure of “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” and Disney’s strategic pivot towards streaming content, the project was ultimately canceled.
What is Lucasfilm planning?
Despite ongoing speculation, studio insiders are keen to clarify that Kinberg’s upcoming “Star Wars” movies are in their embryonic stage. Reports suggesting that these films will continue the Skywalker Saga as Episodes X, XI, and XII are premature. Kinberg’s vision aims to craft a new saga, with specific plot details and characters still lightyears away from their final form. The franchise remains deeply committed to evolving while retaining its core ethos, and this new trilogy could play a pivotal role in that evolution.
Multitasking with other franchises
Kinberg’s commitments extend beyond the galaxy far, far away. He is also onboard to produce the next Star Trek movie for Paramount, directed by Joby Harold and written by Seth Grahame-Smith. Additionally, he’s working with Edgar Wright on producing “The Running Man,” slated for a November 2025 release. Juggling these massive projects means Kinberg’s “Star Wars” endeavors may not materialize anytime soon.
For Kinberg, the stakes are sky-high. He’s balancing the weight of historical franchise expectations and his recent track record, which presents a blend of incredible highs and notable lows. Lucasfilm is betting on his accumulated experience and his creative rapport with key figures to navigate the future of “Star Wars.”
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