Earlier today, we reported on the fact that dynamicdirecting duo,Phil LordandChris Miller, are far too busy to return to theirJump Streetfranchise to direct23 Jump Street. While they will still produce that movie, they have bigger fish to fry. The pair are responsible for two other very importantfranchise moviesset up at different studios. They will be directing theSpider-Man Animated Moviefor Sony, which arrives in 2018 following the studio’s live-actionSpider-Manreboot in 2017. And they will also be directing theStar Wars Anthology: Han Solo Moviefor Disney and LucasFilm, which is expected to hit that same year.
The pair made a name for themselves with the animated hitCloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. And proving that was nofamily friendlyfluke, they created a blockbuster out ofThe Lego Movie, something most thought was impossible. Now they are taking on two of the most popular characters in pop culture history. Speaking withIGN,Chris Millerteased how he and his partner are tackling such a monumental task.
“It’s a huge pressure. We always try and find something that’s gonna… give fire to our bellies and do a really good job. And this feels like there’s a lot of pressure to not screw this up. So we’ve definitely got that motivation and then the rest of it is about trying to give audiences a fresh experience that doesn’t feel like you’re just trying to check off some checklist of beats that you’re expecting and make something that feels new and exciting for people, but at the same time honoring what was so great about that character.”
Lawrence Kasdan, who wroteStar Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Backand this year’sStar Wars: The Force Awakens, is penning theStar Wars Anthology: Han Solo Moviewith his son Jon Kasdan. The plot will focus on a youngHan Solo, with a story that tells how he became a space pirate and smuggler before teaming up with Luke and Ben Kenobi on a mission to save a Princess and destroy aDeath Star.Chris Millerknows that bringing this tale to the big screen for the first time is important, but relies on childhood memories in seeing it to the finish line.
“When I was a kid on the playground fights were about who got to play Han Solo. He’s just one of the best characters ever created… I could talk to you for a day about why he is the perfect blend of rogue-ish cowboy… Morally ambiguous, but has a clear moral compass. He’s funny. He’s off the cuff.”
Adding to the pressure is the fact thatHarrison Fordhimself is returning to reprise the character inStar Wars: The Force Awakens, adding even more history and gravitas to Han Solo. There is no word yet on who will play the young Han Solo. Nor has it been confirmed thatTom Holland, who played Peter Parker in the 2017Spider-Manreboot, will be back to voice the character in the Spider-Man Animated Movie.Chris Millerpromises that movie is being approached with a fresh approach as well.
“I will say, it is not just another Peter Parker origin story that you’ve seen 400 times. It is something totally unique and different and not like anything you’ve seen. That’s all I can say… and you’re going to love it!”
Do you thinkPhil LordandChris Millerhave what it takes to bring Han Solo and Peter Parker back to the big screen with a fresh twist that will appeal to old and young fans alike? Or will it be too much of a challenge? Both films are scheduled to hit the same summer, making 2018 one of the biggest yet. Are you excited? Or is it too soon?
