Denis Villeneuve on Star Wars and Star Trek: No Interest Despite Love for Sci-Fi
Denis Villeneuve is undeniably one of the most respected directors in recent years, especially for his work in the science fiction genre with films like Arrival and Dune. However, fans hoping to see him venture into a galaxy far, far away or among the stars of the Starfleet will be disappointed. The director has made it clear that he has no interest in directing a Star Wars or Star Trek film, dashing the hopes of fans who dreamt of seeing his touch on these iconic universes.
Villeneuve and His Relationship with Star Wars
Villeneuve is currently immersed in the development of Dune Messiah, the third and final chapter of his trilogy based on Frank Herbert’s work. Considering that Dune inspired George Lucas in creating Star Wars, it’s no surprise that Villeneuve is a fan of the saga. However, his enthusiasm has clear boundaries. In an interview on The Town podcast, the director explained how he felt everything went wrong with the release of Return of the Jedi in 1983:
“The problem is that everything went wrong in 1983 with Return of the Jedi. It’s a long story. I was 15, and my best friend and I wanted to take a taxi to go to Los Angeles to talk to George Lucas – we were so angry! To this day, the Ewoks… It became a children’s comedy. Star Wars crystallized into its own mythology, very dogmatic, seemed like a recipe, no more surprises. So I don’t dream of making a Star Wars because it seems like the code is very codified.”
Villeneuve considers The Empire Strikes Back the peak of the saga, but he has no kind words for Return of the Jedi. The director is not a fan of the Ewoks, and he’s not alone. However, many fans and critics disagree with him, considering Return of the Jedi one of the most beloved chapters of the saga. Even George Lucas has often mentioned that Star Wars was intended for a young audience.
No Interest in Star Trek
If Star Wars fans have little to hope for, Star Trek fans have no chance. During the same interview, Villeneuve simply said:
“I’m not a Trekkie.”
There are no shades or possibilities of changing his mind: Villeneuve will never direct a Star Trek film. However, it’s worth noting that J.J. Abrams, director of the 2009 Star Trek reboot, was not a big fan of the saga before accepting the project, yet his film was a success.
Villeneuve’s Bond with Star Wars
Villeneuve still has a deep connection with the original Star Wars trilogy. He was the perfect age when the first film was released in 1977, and it left an indelible mark on him:
“I was the target audience. I was 10 years old. The film hit me like a silver bullet. I became obsessed with Star Wars. The Empire Strikes Back is the film I’ve been waiting for all my life. I saw it a billion times in the cinema. I was traumatized by The Empire Strikes Back. I love Star Wars.”
Despite his love for the original saga, Villeneuve is not interested in being a part of it as a director, believing that the franchise has lost its innovative spirit.
The Future of Star Wars
Disney and Lucasfilm are gearing up for the return of Star Wars to the big screen with several projects slated for 2026. Among these will be a film by Jon Favreau focused on The Mandalorian and Grogu, a new project by Simon Kinberg, and a film directed by James Mangold set in the early days of the Jedi Order. Despite these developments, Villeneuve will not be involved in any way.
Here is the Italian trailer for Blade Runner 2049:
FAQs
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What is Denis Villeneuve’s stance on directing a Star Wars film?
Denis Villeneuve has made it clear that he has no interest in directing a Star Wars film due to what he perceives as the franchise’s codified nature and lack of surprises.
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Why does Villeneuve have a deep connection with the original Star Wars trilogy?
Villeneuve was the perfect age when the original Star Wars film was released in 1977, which left a lasting impact on him and fueled his love for the saga.
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Will Denis Villeneuve ever direct a Star Trek film?
No, Denis Villeneuve has stated that he is not a fan of Star Trek and has no interest in directing a film within that franchise.
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What projects are in the pipeline for the future of Star Wars?
Disney and Lucasfilm have several projects planned for the return of Star Wars to the big screen, including films focused on The Mandalorian, Grogu, and the early days of the Jedi Order.
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What does Villeneuve think went wrong with Return of the Jedi?
Villeneuve believes that Return of the Jedi derailed the Star Wars saga in 1983, particularly due to what he sees as a shift towards a more child-friendly tone with the Ewoks.
Tags:
Denis Villeneuve, Star Wars, Star Trek, Sci-Fi, Film, Director, Franchise, George Lucas