See You Space Cowboy: Kathleen Kennedy Calls Upcoming Han Solo Movie “A Heist or Western Type”

In an interview with Variety, J. J. Abrams and Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy talked about what we can expect from all the upcoming Star Wars movies. They’re not just excited about 7, 8, and 9, but also all the standalone films that will expand our view of the Star Wars universe. Let’s not forget about the other types of media as well, as Kennedy also confirms they will be exploring mixed-reality, VR and AR through their partnership with Magic Leap.

In praise of the universe George Lucas created, the Force Awakens director said, “There are other stories that we can tell in that same transportive and transcendent spirit. Going forward, you’re going to see movies that shift tonally, some that are grittier and tougher, and some more comedic in nature.” This means we’ll perhaps see the franchise play more with genre, which is exciting.

The Lucasfilm chief also adds that the upcoming young Han Solo movie “moves closer to a heist or Western type feel,” citing “[Frederic] Remington and those primary colors that are used in his paintings defining the look and feel of the film.” Remington was an artist who created iconic illustrations of the Old American West. His use of colors were criticized in his early career, but they’re praised now for how true to life they are with distinct earthly and bluish tones. Funny enough, the blue/orange contrast we see in Remington’s paintings feel extra cinematic now considering how popular that color scheme is now in films.

This reference to early cowboy paintings feels very appropriate for a crafty young Han, and I’m eager to see how it works out in the hands of The LEGO Movie‘s Chris Miller and Phil Lord. The film is set for a 2018 release, and the cast list currently includes Alden Ehrenreich as Han, Donald Glover as a young Lando Calrissian, and Emilia Clarke.

Are you excited to watch a Star Wars western?

(via Slash Film)

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