Quite a few names have been proposed for the coveted role of director for the upcoming film currently known as Star Wars Episode VII. One of those names is J.J. Abrams, known for his Star Trek reboot, Lost, Fringe, and Super 8. (In other words, he’s actually worked in the sci-fi genre, and was one of the proposed names that made a lot of sense).
But alas, his signature lens flares will have no place in Episode VII. Abrams declined the opportunity to direct the film after some early conversations. And truthfully, wouldn’t it be weird to have the same director for a Star Trek and a Star Wars film? Sure, there are plenty of fans of both, but there would be the unavoidable comparisons, and anyone who directs Episode VII will be under enough pressure as it is.
Abrams told the U.K. movie magazine Empire:
“[T]here were the very early conversations and I quickly said that because of my loyalty to ‘Star Trek’, and also just being a [‘Star Wars’] fan, I wouldn’t even want to be involved in the next version of those things.”
In an E Online article, he said,
“I guess the franchises could go up against each other, but I’m not thinking that far ahead!” Abrams added. “I’m a huge fan of Star Wars, Empire and Jedi, and the idea of the world continuing is exciting and will be amazing. [Star Wars producer] Kathy Kennedy is a friend and there are no smarter producers. It’s in great hands.”
It’s possible the actual director will be named sometime in January. In the meantime, the pool of possibilities is dwindling. My personal pick Steven Spielberg also showed no interest in tackling the massive project, along with Zack Snyder (Man of Steel) and Quentin Tarantino (Django Unchained).
Kathleen Kennedy served as producer on Seabiscuit, directed by Hunger Games’ Gary Ross. Ross isn’t working on the future films in the popular franchise, (which seemed surprising). Could he be up for the next Star Wars film? What about Frank Oz? He and Kennedy worked together on The Indian in the Cupboard, and Oz has prior experience with the Star Wars films. It’s unlikely, however, since Oz seems to have somewhat distanced himself from his role as Yoda and his days as a Muppeteer.
We will have to continue to be patient and await the announcement, but we do know that Abrams’ loyalty is with Star Trek and not Star Wars.
The Force is not with him.