Rian Johnson Calls Playing It Safe the “Worst Sin” for Star Wars

Director Rian Johnson has made a bold statement about the Star Wars franchise. He says the series’ biggest mistake is being afraid to take risks. Johnson shared this view in a recent interview about his work.

His comments come on the eight-year anniversary of Star Wars: The Last Jedi. That film, which he directed, famously divided the fanbase. Johnson argues that challenging audiences is essential for the saga’s legacy.

Every Film Sparks Controversy Before Acceptance

Johnson pointed to a clear pattern in Star Wars history. He noted that every major film since The Empire Strikes Back initially faced backlash. Fans often react strongly to new directions before eventually embracing them.

According to Variety, this cycle includes the Ewoks and the prequel trilogy politics. Even the beloved Ahsoka Tano character was initially met with fan resistance. Johnson believes this friction is a sign the material is being treated seriously, not with “kid gloves.”

The director’s own film, The Last Jedi, is a prime example. Its choices regarding Luke Skywalker and Rey’s lineage sparked intense debate. Yet, many now view it as a bold and necessary evolution of the mythos.

The Current Path of the Galaxy Far, Far Away

This debate touches on the current strategy for Star Wars storytelling. Recent projects show a mix of safe bets and creative gambles. The next film, The Mandalorian & Grogu, adapts a proven hit from television.

However, the critically acclaimed series Andor proves risks can pay off. It delivered a grounded, mature story that expanded what Star Wars can be. This contrast highlights the franchise’s ongoing struggle to balance innovation with familiarity.

The consequence of playing it safe was seen in The Rise of Skywalker. That film’s attempt to course-correct pleased few. It underscores Johnson’s warning that the true danger lies in not shaking the box.

Rian Johnson’s warning about Star Wars highlights a core tension in blockbuster filmmaking. The franchise must innovate to survive, even if it risks alienating fans momentarily. His view suggests the worst sin for Star Wars isn’t controversy, but irrelevance.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What did Rian Johnson direct for Star Wars?

Rian Johnson wrote and directed Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The film was released in December 2017 and is the second chapter in the Sequel Trilogy.

Why was The Last Jedi so controversial?

It made unexpected choices with classic characters, like a disillusioned Luke Skywalker. It also subverted several fan theories about Rey’s parentage and the nature of the Force.

Is Rian Johnson making another Star Wars movie?

A new Star Wars trilogy was announced with Johnson attached years ago. Its current status is uncertain as Lucasfilm has shifted focus to other projects in development.

What is Rian Johnson working on now?

He is currently finishing Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. It is the third film in his popular Benoit Blanc detective series.

What does he mean by “playing it safe”?

He means repeating familiar story beats and character arcs without innovation. It refers to prioritizing fan service over narrative ambition and new ideas.