Wow. If you haven't heard by now,
it was announced Tuesday that Disney is buying Lucasfilm, and all that comes with it, for a reported $4 billion in cash and stock. While that alone would be news-worthy, the thing that everyone is talking about is the plan for new Star Wars films, beginning with Episode VII (7!) in 2015. Additional films would then follow at the rate of every 2-3 years. Along with many of you, I'm guessing, I have very mixed feelings about this news. On one hand, it saddens me that there could be films that further tarnish the legacy of the franchise, while on the other hand, hey - at least George won't be writing/directing anymore, which at least opens up the possibility of a decent set of films, that we might just like. With this is mind, let's start thinking about directors that could tackle the gargantuan job of helming what would surely be the most anticipated film of the year (whether 2015 or not). This list is not going to please everyone, and I assure you, I'm taking this seriously, and not just throwing together the typical list of fanboy/girl favorites. Nolan, Aronofsky, etc, are not on this list. Nothing against them, but this list is not for them. Read on to find out which 7 directors we think should be on the shortlist. But first...
Wildcard/Longshot: Gore VerbinskiWhy it could be him: After successfully helming the Pirates of the Carribean trilogy, and wisely avoiding the 4th, he's proven he can handle a mega-budget effects-heavy summer blockbuster, and do it well. He's got a working relationship with Disney already, with The Lone Ranger coming out next year.
Why it won't be him: The many documented delays and production woes surrounding The Lone Ranger might lead to either party taking a breather from their partnership.