Rian Johnson’s New Sci-Fi Movie: Details & 2026 Filming Plan
Rian Johnson Charts a Course Back to ‘70s Thrillers with New Sci-Fi Project
Following the release of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, director and writer Rian Johnson is setting his sights on a new, original sci-fi thriller, drawing inspiration from the paranoid suspense films of the 1970s. The announcement, made during a recent interview with Variety, signals a deliberate shift in tone for the filmmaker, known for both his blockbuster work on Star Wars and the critically acclaimed Knives Out franchise.
Johnson described the project as having “a light sci-fi element,” but emphasized that the core of the story lies in the atmosphere and tension reminiscent of classics like The Conversation (1974) and Three Days of the Condor (1975). This represents a departure from the large-scale space opera of Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017), a film that, despite grossing $1.33 billion worldwide, proved deeply divisive among fans. The film’s reception highlighted the challenges of navigating established franchises and satisfying passionate, often vocal, fanbases.
Navigating the Post-Franchise Landscape
The new project comes at a pivotal moment in Johnson’s career. While his work on the Knives Out series has been met with consistent praise and commercial success – the latest installment, Wake Up Dead Man, features an all-star cast including Daniel Craig, Glenn Close, and Mila Kunis – his planned trilogy expansion of the Star Wars universe remains indefinitely shelved. Lucasfilm put the project on hold following the mixed reaction to The Last Jedi, a decision that underscored the studio’s cautious approach to expanding the franchise beyond its core narratives. This experience likely informs Johnson’s current focus on original storytelling.
The current cinematic landscape is increasingly dominated by intellectual property (IP), with studios heavily reliant on established franchises to drive box office revenue. According to a recent report by the Motion Picture Association (MPA), theatrical revenue from sequels and remakes consistently outperforms original films. Johnson’s decision to prioritize an original script, even after the success of Knives Out, demonstrates a commitment to creative risk-taking and a desire to explore new narrative territory. This is a move that resonates with a growing audience appetite for fresh, innovative content.
The Allure of the ‘70s Thriller
The 1970s represent a golden age for paranoid thrillers, a genre defined by its exploration of themes like government surveillance, political conspiracy, and the erosion of trust. Films like All the President’s Men (1976) and Klute (1971) tapped into a collective anxiety about power and control, reflecting the turbulent political climate of the era. The genre’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to create a sense of unease and suspense, prompting audiences to question the reality around them.
Johnson’s interest in this period is not surprising. His previous work, particularly Knives Out, has demonstrated a knack for intricate plotting and character-driven narratives. The ‘70s thriller aesthetic – characterized by its gritty realism, atmospheric cinematography, and morally ambiguous characters – provides a fertile ground for exploring these strengths. The director plans to begin shooting the project in 2026, giving him ample time to refine the script and assemble a team capable of capturing the distinctive mood of the era. Fans can find more about Rian Johnson’s work on worldys.news’ Entertainment section.
A Lingering Connection to a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Despite the stalled Star Wars trilogy, Johnson hasn’t entirely closed the door on returning to the franchise. “A part of my brain will always be in Star Wars,” he told Variety, acknowledging the profound impact the series has had on his creative development. This sentiment reflects the enduring cultural significance of Star Wars, a franchise that continues to captivate audiences across generations. The ongoing success of Disney+ series like The Mandalorian and Andor demonstrates the continued demand for Star Wars content, suggesting that Johnson’s future involvement in the universe remains a possibility.
For now, however, Johnson is focused on forging his own path, embracing the challenges and opportunities of original storytelling. His new sci-fi thriller promises to be a compelling blend of genre conventions and stylistic influences, offering a glimpse into the mind of one of contemporary cinema’s most innovative filmmakers.