Ever since Disney have announced that they will release a new
Star Wars trilogy last month, rumors have been overflowing the internet. Perhaps the most popular one is the director for
Episode VII, which is currently being targeted for a 2015 theatrical release. The biggest rumor going around right now is that
X-Men: First Class helmer Matthew Vaughn is set to direct the film, but has yet to be officially confirmed or denied. Another heavily speculated candidate is
Iron Man's Jon Favreau, who recently expressed his excitement for the new trilogy. According to
Deadline, Favreau is "panting after" the highly coveted gig. The choice makes sense, as the director is a big
Star Wars fan and helped launch one of Disney's biggest franchises in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Personally, Favreau would be my top choice for the job if Vaughn doesn't get it.
Additionally, Deadline say that David Fincher (
Fight Club,
The Social Network) "might be game" to direct one of these new
Star Wars films. This choice also makes sense, due to the director's prior relationship with LucasFilm. Fincher is also attached to helm Disney's
20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, which the studio are currently deciding whether or not to greenlight.
Interestingly, Disney studio chairman Alan Horn recently spoke with
Vulture about the secrecy of the studio's LucasFilm purchase, and he also discusses when we can expect the director of
Star Wars: Episode VII to be announced.
"I would say you'll know soon. And it's got to come from Kathy Kennedy — we don't have the company yet!" He also refused to comment on the Matthew Vaughn rumors.
In the meantime,
Episode VII is currently being written by Michael Ardnt (
Toy Story 3). Lawrence Kasdan (
The Empire Strikes Back) and Simon Kinberg (
X-Men: Days Of Future Past) recently signed on to pen the screenplays for two more
Star Wars films, which are said to be spin-offs and not a part of the main series.