Rian Johnson, director of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, reflects on the backlash his film faced and how it shaped his understanding of the franchise. He recalls his earlier criticisms of the Star Wars prequels and the evolution of fan opinions over time. While some fans appreciated The Last Jedi for its unexpected plot twists and character development, others found it a significant diversion from traditional Star Wars narratives. Johnson acknowledged the tension between old and new fan expectations, envisioning that shifts in perception may continue throughout the franchise's future. He expressed enjoyment while watching J.J. Abrams' Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, noting similarities in their storytelling approaches even though the film altered some of his original ideas. Upcoming Star Wars projects include a film about Rey rebuilding the Jedi Order set for 2027, alongside other exciting expansions of the universe.

What are Rian Johnson's thoughts on the backlash to The Last Jedi? nJohnson believes that his experiences as a Star Wars fan helped him contextualize the backlash, reflecting on the polarizing reactions as part of the franchise's ongoing dynamic. He asserts that new narratives often face scrutiny, which is a natural part of fandom.n

Star Wars, created by George Lucas, has seen continuous evolution since its debut in 1977. With a massive fanbase across generations, the franchise encompasses films, animated series, comics, and novels, significantly impacting pop culture. The Last Jedi was a pivotal installment, introducing fresh ideas and characters, yet it faced criticism from a segment of the fandom that felt it deviated from traditional storytelling. As the Star Wars universe expands with new films and series, debates about its direction remain lively and engaging.