Disney clearly likes to keep its trusted filmmakers close. Jon Watts, the director behind Marvel’s Spider-Man Home trilogy, has reportedly been tapped to direct Star Wars: Episode X, which kicks off a new trilogy written by Simon Kinberg. That makes him the third straight MCU director to take on a Star Wars film.
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MCU Directors Who Crossed Over to Star Wars
| Director | MCU Work | Star Wars Project |
|---|---|---|
| Jon Watts | Spider-Man: Homecoming, Far From Home, No Way Home | Episode X (reported); co-created Skeleton Crew |
| Jon Favreau | Iron Man, Iron Man 2 | The Mandalorian; directed The Mandalorian & Grogu |
| Shawn Levy | Deadpool & Wolverine | Star Wars: Starfighter |
Why Jon Watts?
Watts already has a foot in the Star Wars door. He co-created the Disney+ series Skeleton Crew, so Lucasfilm trusts him. Now he gets the theatrical upgrade and the keys to the franchise’s biggest future bet.
Not everyone is cheering, though. Some fans see him as a safe pick rather than an inspiring one. His reputation has also taken a hit among some MCU fans since Spider-Man: Brand New Day arrived and was widely viewed as an upgrade over the Home films.
A Divisive Trilogy
Episode X was never promised, and it will reportedly continue the Skywalker Saga, even though Disney once marketed The Rise of Skywalker as the saga’s end. Rey, played by Daisy Ridley, is expected to return, though her role size is unclear. For a fanbase that’s always been split during the Disney era, that’s bound to spark debate.
The Favreau and Levy Stories
Jon Favreau kicked off the MCU with Iron Man and has played Happy Hogan since day one. At Star Wars, he created The Mandalorian and later directed The Mandalorian & Grogu. Its lackluster box office is reportedly part of why Watts’ film is happening now.
Shawn Levy directed Deadpool & Wolverine, which earned over $1.3 billion worldwide. Lucasfilm quickly hired him for Starfighter with Ryan Gosling, but Marvel is now bringing him back to direct Ghost Rider. It seems Disney’s directors really do float between franchises.
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Conclsuion
Whether you see Watts as a safe choice or a smart one, Disney is clearly betting on familiar talent. The real question is whether the Skywalker Saga needs another chapter. What do you think? Tell us in the comments.
FAQs
Who is directing Star Wars: Episode X?
Jon Watts has reportedly signed on, with Simon Kinberg writing the new trilogy.
Will Rey return in the new trilogy?
Daisy Ridley is reportedly set to appear, but the size of her role hasn’t been confirmed.
