Everyone is so excited about the upcoming Han Solo, er, solo movie that even the most jaded fans and naysayers are itching to see how it will be done. But let’s take a step back now and think about one thing. Is it going to matter all that much if it has to be directed by someone else? Signs usually point to yes, yes it will, but all is not lost yet. The movie is still set for its initial release in 2018, but for any director that gets brought in, which is a distinct possibility, it’s bound to be a nightmarish and utterly thankless job.
What Happened?
Well the popular theory is that the directors, now former directors, had massive “creative differences” with the producer and executive producer. Most of us that have been around a few years probably understand that “creative differences” usually means that someone wasn’t willing to give in and someone else threw a huge hissy fit before taking their metaphorical ball and going home. Whatever really happened, the result is that whoever gets chosen to step in and make sense of the notes and ideas of the former directors is going to have one heck of a time deciphering what is supposed to work and what’s being dumped in favor of re-shoots. Ah yes, a thankless, tireless job indeed.
Another possible reason that’s been given is that Lord and Miller, the now former directors, didn’t seem willing to give in to the idea that they might be able to take direction from the producers. Some might call them prima donnas and others might call them victims of a tightly run ship with no room for error. But few if any directors ever just get up and walk away from a chance to direct a Star Wars film, so the incompatibility between directors and individuals must have been as volatile as relations between Solo and Fett. It’s okay to laugh if you get the reference.
A Few Possible Directors
There are some names being kicked around at the moment such as Ron Howard and Joe Johnston, who would bring a much more serious feel to the film if they were to step on board. One thing about both directors however is that their track record for delivering hit films on time is impeccable. They’re also well known for creating films that people want to watch largely because they stay faithful to the source material. One of the arguments that goes against Lord and Miller, who were responsible for hits like The Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, is that they like to inject a very large dose of comedy into their films.
While it’s alright to crack wise and inject a bit of humor into a Star Wars movie, die hard fans would likely revolt if Han Solo was turned into the kind of character that is portrayed as a goofball with few serious or dramatic moments to his name. In fact it would kind of be an insult to the character is how many people feel, considering that Solo is sarcastic, opportunistic, and more likely to offer a biting remark rather than a witty one-liner. So while it’s possible that Lord and Miller could have pulled off this film, it’s also likely that it wouldn’t have been something that us hardcore Star Wars fans would have fully enjoyed. That’s right, I said it, I am a proud fan of Star Wars and want to see it done right. Can you blame me?
So as of now, the Han Solo spinoff is still on track to be made, but any director that comes in has to know that they’re going to be looking a lot of sleepless nights and a possible need to credit Lord and Miller despite their decision to abandon the project. They did something, just not everything, so it’s only right that they get at least a mention.
Follow Us
