Director Shawn Levy has unveiled an exciting new production photo from the set of the upcoming film, Star Wars: Starfighter. The image features stars Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray aboard what appears to be a futuristic sci-fi vessel, instantly igniting excitement among fans.
In the photo, Gosling embodies a rugged, Han Solo-esque charm, leaning casually against a console. He sports a distinctive look with tousled hair, a bruised cheek, and a loose-fitting shirt reminiscent of classic Star Wars attire, complemented by thick, practical gloves.
Flynn Gray’s character mirrors Gosling’s adventurous style, also sporting scruffy clothes and gloves. While their exact roles are still a mystery, their on-screen chemistry already suggests a compelling ‘uncle and nephew’ dynamic.
Naturally, the photo has sparked a wave of fan theories. Given the prominent sci-fi boat, many are speculating about a watery setting. One popular theory points to Maramere, an aquatic world introduced in the 2002 video game Star Wars: Jedi Starfighter.
Though Maramere and its unique inhabitants, the Mere—humanoid creatures with spiny arms, orange fur, and both nasal and gill-based breathing—are currently part of Star Wars Legends, their potential inclusion in the official Disney canon is exciting.
Other imaginative fans have pondered if the setting could be Kamino, the iconic ocean planet where the Republic’s clone army was created, or even Naboo. However, it’s generally believed that Starfighter will forge its own path without delving into existing planet backstories.
Gosling’s rugged aesthetic has also led some to compare him to Dash Rendar, a beloved smuggler from the Legends continuity who has also made minor appearances in official canon. Despite the resemblance, Gosling’s age suggests he won’t be portraying Rendar in the Disney sequel timeline.
Director Levy clarified the film’s scope at Star Wars Celebration 2025, stating, “This is a standalone. It’s not a prequel, not a sequel. It’s a new adventure. It’s set in a period of time that we haven’t seen explored yet.” The screenplay was penned by Jonathan Tropper, known for The Adam Project.
Production for Starfighter is currently underway off the picturesque coast of Sardinia in the Mediterranean, with a theatrical release set for May 28, 2027. The impressive cast includes Matt Smith (Doctor Who) as the film’s villain, alongside Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Amy Adams, Jamael Westman, and the comedic talent of Simon Bird from The Inbetweeners.
Fans may recall a previous set photo that showed Gosling and Gray seated in a vehicle reminiscent of a landspeeder, a familiar sight for anyone who cherishes 1977’s Star Wars: A New Hope.