Rian Johnson Reflects on Star Wars Backlash and New Knives Out Film

Director Rian Johnson addressed the intense fan reaction to his Star Wars film. He spoke at the Newport Beach Film Festival. Johnson received the festival’s Director Award for his work on Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.

The filmmaker expressed a surprisingly positive view of the experience. He emphasized his lifelong fandom and understanding of the passionate Star Wars community. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Johnson stated the interaction ultimately strengthened his appreciation for the fanbase.

Embracing the Passion of Star Wars Fandom

Johnson described the response to The Last Jedi as his most positive experience. He has connected with many people who have deep attachments to the movie. The director insists the passionate debates are a natural part of Star Wars culture.

He understands that fans love and hate content fiercely. This has been happening since the original trilogy films. Johnson came out of the experience loving the fandom more than before.

Knives Out Success and Future Mysteries

The Benoit Blanc detective series became an unexpected hit. Johnson initially wrote the first film as a one-off project. He had been developing structural ideas for a murder mystery for over a decade.

Many were skeptical about the first Knives Out film. Friends and studios questioned his choice after directing a Star Wars movie. Three films later, Johnson hopes to continue making these mysteries for life.

He and Daniel Craig feel they are strong creative partners. They aim to try something new with each installment. Johnson would be happy to make these films indefinitely if audiences remain engaged.

The director’s journey from galactic epic to intimate whodunits shows his unique path. Rian Johnson continues to defy expectations with each new project. His upcoming Knives Out mystery promises another fresh take on the beloved genre.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Rian Johnson say about Star Wars fans?

He expressed deep appreciation for their passion. Johnson stated the debates are a natural part of fandom. He emerged from the experience with greater love for the Star Wars community.

How many Knives Out movies are there?

There are currently three films in the series. The latest is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. All feature Daniel Craig as detective Benoit Blanc.

Will Rian Johnson make more Knives Out films?

He hopes to continue making them for the rest of his career. This depends on audience interest and creative freshness. Johnson and Craig plan to stop if the work feels repetitive.

What awards has Rian Johnson won?

He has won Directors Guild and National Board of Review awards. Johnson received two Oscar nominations for his Knives Out screenplays. TIME magazine named him one of the world’s most influential people.

Why won’t Johnson make a Knives Out Muppet movie?

He respects both franchises too much to combine them. Having Muppets murdered would feel wrong for their brand. Placing Blanc in a Muppet movie would break the character’s reality.