Why Rian Johnson Was Offered a New Trilogy After The Last Jedi: A Closer Look at Creative Vision and Box Office Success

Why did Disney and Lucasfilm decide to offer Rian Johnson, the director of 'The Last Jedi', a new trilogy? This article explores the innovative creative vision, the financial success of Johnson’s previous works, and the potential for new and diverse narratives within the Star Wars franchise.

Johnson's Failing with The Last Jedi

Some critics and fans have pointed out the perceived failings of 'The Last Jedi', suggesting it was a misguided venture. However, this article delves into the underlying reasons behind Disney and Lucasfilm’s decision to offer Johnson a new trilogy, presenting a more nuanced perspective.

Creative Vision

Johnson brought a unique perspective to the Star Wars franchise. His approach to storytelling was not only innovative but also deeply engaging. Creed and Knives Out demonstrated his ability to weave compelling narratives, which aligned with Disney and Lucasfilm’s aspirations for the franchise.

Critical Acclaim and Box Office Performance

Although 'The Last Jedi' faced criticism, it still managed to achieve a significant box office performance. Johnson’s involvement in such high-profile projects showcased his expertise and financial prowess, making him an attractive option for future ventures.

Future Potential and Commitment to New Stories

Disney and Lucasfilm saw potential in Johnson’s approach to storytelling and his ability to explore new characters and settings within the Star Wars universe. The commitment to new stories could breath fresh life into the franchise, potentially attracting a new generation of fans.

The Decision Behind Offering a New Trilogy

The final decision to offer Johnson a new trilogy reflects a combination of his creative capabilities, the financial success of his previous work, and the desire to explore new directions within the franchise. Johnson, through his willingness to defy the fans and create new narratives, fit nicely into Kathleen Kennedy’s plans for the Star Wars franchise.

Kathleen Kennedy’s Vision for the Future

Kathleen Kennedy, the head of Lucasfilm, sought to shed the old fans and make Star Wars for the next generation. Despite her promises to protect the Star Wars legacy, she had a different vision for the franchise. Her plans to prioritize new narratives over legacy characters required a director who was not bound by the complexities of the past.

Rian Johnson and His Role

Rian Johnson was perfectly aligned with Kennedy’s vision. His willingness to deviate from the established narrative and create a fresh direction for the franchise set the stage for his new trilogy. However, the backlash from fans and the critical response to 'The Last Jedi' complicated his position, leading to a difficult reception for his subsequent work.

Financial Performance and Box Office Success

While 'The Last Jedi' saw a slight drop in box office performance compared to 'The Force Awakens', the financial success of Johnson’s previous projects and the strong female characters and diversity in 'The Last Jedi' provided a solid foundation for his new trilogy.

Community Reactions

Not every fan was pleased with Johnson’s involvement in the franchise. Many canceled their streaming subscriptions and expressed their disappointment. However, the film's success, largely driven by critical and financial support, paved the way for future projects.

It is worth noting that the growing dissatisfaction with the Star Wars franchise, particularly with the direction taken by 'The Last Jedi', reflects a deep divide within the fanbase. Overall, the decision to offer Rian Johnson a new trilogy was primarily rooted in his potential to bring fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling to the franchise.