Daisy Ridley was a relatively unknown actress when she landed the role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Now, for millions of hardcore Star Wars fans, she is the scavenger-turned-Jedi, Rey (or Rey Skywalker?). Back in April, Ridley surprised fans with her appearance at Star Wars Celebration 2023, but the true gift for her fans was the announcement of a new film, with Rey returning.
Fans really look forward to her return, given the mixed response to the third film in the sequel trilogy, where Rey last appeared. Ridley has now hinted at some details about her movie and whether there’s any scope for a trilogy format.
Daisy Ridley Reveals New Star Wars Film Is Not What She Expected
Daisy Ridley never thought she would return to her Star Wars role and even confirmed to some news outlets that she wouldn’t do another film. However, when Lucasfilm presented her with a lucrative offer, she found it too tempting to decline. The Chaos Walking actress received a grand reception at the Star Wars Celebration, which dispelled any lingering uncertainties in her about accepting the role.
When she interviewed with Collider recently, Ridley confirmed that she came across the storyline for one film and was very excited. The Sometimes I Think About Dying actress also added that while she had not read the entire script, the story was not something she expected. Ridley shared with Collider:
“I’m very excited. The story is really cool. I’m waiting to read a script because, obviously, I don’t have any other updates. It’s not what I expected, but I’m very excited.”
The interviewer further wanted to know whether this was a one-off role or if Ridley would return for other Star Wars films. While the Ophelia actress did not provide a definitive answer, she left room for hope among fans. She shared that she was told about only one film, but added, “That’s not to say that that’s all it is.” Ridley also remained uncertain about the beginning of production or potential release. The Murder on the Orient Express actress told Collider:
“I know the storyline for one film. That’s not to say that that’s all it is, but that’s what I was told about. And I imagine it will be the next film, I think. I mean, again, I don’t know, post strikes and everything, how quickly everything will start up again. But yes, so far, I know the story of one film and I think people will be very excited.”
Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, known for her work on Ms. Marvel, is set to direct the new film, with Steven Knight of Peaky Blinders fame as the screenwriter.
What Is The New Daisy Ridley Led Star Wars Film About?
In an interview with IGN, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy provided hints about the direction the new film takes. According to her, the new film will be set 15 years after the events of Rise of Skywalker and the story will explore Rey’s efforts to rebuild the Jedi Order based on the teachings found in the books. Kennedy explained to IGN:
“Well, we’re 15 years out from ‘Rise of Skywalker,’ so we’re post-war, post-First Order, and the Jedi are in disarray. There’s a lot of discussion around, ‘Who are the Jedi? What are they doing? What’s the state of the galaxy?’ She’s attempting to rebuild the Jedi Order, based on the books… based on what she promised Luke. So, that’s where we’re going.”
Kennedy also shut down one of the fan rumors about the film. It was speculated that Mark Hamill would possibly return as a Force ghost in the new film after a de-aged Hamill appeared in The Mandalorian. Kennedy revealed that the film will focus on Daisy Ridley’s character and the new world order, rather than dwelling on flashbacks or Force ghosts.
Also Read: The Marsh King’s Daughter Review: Daisy Ridley Highlights Conventional but Effective Crime Drama
With the strikes over, production is set to resume shortly and more updates about the new film will reach fans soon.
