‘Star Wars: A New Hope’ Set For IMAX 70mm Re-Release

Lucasfilm is expected to announce its upcoming theatrical Star Wars projects at Star Wars Celebration in London this April, according to a report from The Hollywood Reporter cited by The Direct. The studio has not released a film in theaters since Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in December 2019, a gap of over three years. Disney has two untitled Star Wars movies dated for December 19, 2025, and December 17, 2027, though development status suggests these dates may shift.

Multiple filmmakers are attached to projects in various stages. Damon Lindelof, creator of Watchmen, is developing a post-sequel trilogy film. Taika Waititi, director of Thor: Ragnarok and Thor: Love and Thunder, has a mysterious project in the works. A previously announced Rogue Squadron movie from Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins "may never materialize," according to The Hollywood Reporter, despite Jenkins' previous comments suggesting otherwise. Additional projects from Kevin Feige and Rian Johnson have also been reported.

Rumors indicate a theatrical film could enter pre-production as early as "April or May," though which specific project remains unclear. Lucasfilm is reportedly mapping out a five-year plan for new Star Wars films, though this may not unfold under current president Kathleen Kennedy, who has led the studio since Disney's acquisition of Lucasfilm but may be ending her tenure as soon as this year. A Puck report cited by The Direct describes a "culture of fear and indecision" at Lucasfilm and a desperation to "[get] it right" regarding the next movie.

On the streaming side, Disney+ has a busy year ahead. The Mandalorian Season 3 is set for March 1, followed by Ahsoka starring Rosario Dawson and Skeleton Crew, produced by Jon Watts and starring Jude Law. Visions Season 2 is also coming. Andor Season 2 and Lando are further out and may not receive updates at Celebration. The Hollywood Reporter notes that while "Lucasfilm may ramp up" content output, "it will have to abide by the same fiscal discipline as the rest of the company." Bob Iger's return as Disney CEO is expected to make Star Wars movies a greater focus going forward.