The dynamic duo behind the hit HBO series Game of Thrones is about to become one with the Force. The official Star Wars website has confirmed today that D.B. Weiss and David Benioff, who have successfully turned Game of Thrones into a cultural phenomenon, have been tasked with both penning and producing their own Star Wars film series.
This will not be the only saga in the making! There is another: an unrelated previously-announced trilogy, which will be handled by the creator of the most recent Star Wars movie: director Rian Johnson. In fact, Johnson was given the reigns to complete trilogy even before audiences and critics had the chance to express their thoughts on The Last Jedi, which eventually achieved mixed reviews.
Kathleen Kennedy, who occupies the role of the president of Lucasfilm, had this to say: “David and Dan are some of the best storytellers working today. Their command of complex characters, depth of story and richness of mythology will break new ground and boldly push Star Wars in ways I find incredibly exciting.”
As of now, there are no exact specifications of what “new ground” is to be explored, nor how “bold” the films will be, leaving a question for audiences to ponder: given Benioff and Weiss’ repertoire, how will their work make its mark in the Star Wars universe?
We have at least a hint as to the chronology of the films! Disney CEO Bob Iger has given hints about Weiss and Benioff’s projects, saying that they will be “focused on a point in time in the Star Wars mythology.”
Nonetheless, Benioff and Weiss sound passionate and enthusiastic about getting started in their press statement: “In the summer of 1977 we traveled to a galaxy far, far away, and we’ve been dreaming of it ever since. We are honored by the opportunity, a little terrified by the responsibility, and so excited to get started as soon as the final season of Game of Thrones is complete.” Currently, the company has yet to determine a date for the first film’s arrival in theaters.
There will be an enormous amount of pressure to deliver films that meet or exceed fans’ expectations, but if their masterful handling of Game of Thrones is anything to go by then Star Wars will be in good hands. Let’s just hope they aren’t too afraid of the responsibility. After all, “Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.”
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