Two days after directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller were let go from directing the untitled Han Solo movie, it has been announced that Ron Howard will take over as director.
Phil Lord and Chris Miller were let go from the Star Wars Han Solo movie over creative differences with the screenwriter, Lawrence Kasdan. Lord and Miller are known for their comedic and improvisational tones in their movies with examples such as 21 Jump Street and The Lego Movie. Meanwhile, it is said that Lawrence Kasdan much prefers sticking to what is written in the script, word for word.
With reports that the movie is already through three-quarters of its principal photography, it is really unheard of for a new director to be brought into a project this late in development.
The Star Wars Han Solo film was scheduled to shoot for three and a half more weeks but filming has been on pause since the firing of Lord and Miller.
Ron Howard has directed 1995’s Apollo 13 and has won an Oscar for his role in directing 2002’s A Beautiful Mind. His name was one of the first on people’s lips once the initial news of Lord and Miller’s leaving was announced.
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy has given a statement on the decision:
“At Lucasfilm, we believe the highest goal of each film is to delight, carrying forward the spirit of the saga that George Lucas began forty years ago,” said Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm, in a statement. “With that in mind, we’re thrilled to announce that Ron Howard will step in to direct the untitled Han Solo film. We have a wonderful script, an incredible cast and crew, and the absolute commitment to make a great movie.”
The Star Wars Han Solo film is still expected to be in theatres May 25, 2018.
