Ron Howard Reveals How Paris Breakfast Led to Directing Solo Star Wars

The path to directing a Star Wars film is rarely straightforward, but Ron Howard’s journey to helm Solo: A Star Wars Story was particularly unexpected. In a candid recent interview with Vulture (October 2023), Howard detailed the surprising Parisian breakfast that abruptly placed him in the director’s chair, replacing original filmmakers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller mid-production.

How Did Ron Howard End Up Directing Solo?

Howard’s entry into the galaxy far, far away began not on a soundstage, but while vacationing in Paris with his wife, Cheryl. A side trip to London for a Hans Zimmer concert led him to reach out to Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. “I reached out to Kathy Kennedy just to say ‘hi,'” Howard recounted. “She said, ‘Do you want to come to breakfast?'” Over that London meal with Kennedy, the late producer Alli Shearmur, and writer Jon Kasdan, Howard was presented with a startling request: Lucasfilm had reached a “creative impasse” with Lord and Miller. Would Howard consider stepping in?

Upon reviewing footage, Howard grasped the core conflict. “There was a studio that liked the script the way it was and wanted a Star Wars movie, but there was a disconnect early on tonally,” Howard explained. “They weren’t convinced that what Phil and Chris were doing was working effectively… They were just seeing two different movies.” Howard agreed to oversee extensive reshoots, noting Lord and Miller were “incredibly gracious” during the transition, despite the creative divergence.

The Lucas Factor and Solo’s Legacy

Howard also shared crucial advice he received directly from Star Wars creator George Lucas during production: “Don’t forget the movie is for 12-year-old boys.” This reminder underscored the core audience expectation Lucas felt was paramount.

Despite Howard’s efforts and a star-studded cast led by Alden Ehrenreich, Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) faced significant challenges upon release. Its $393.2 million global box office take fell short against a reported $275 million budget, earning it the label of a financial disappointment. Debates persist among fans – some attributing the outcome to the directorial upheaval and production complexities, others questioning the fundamental need for a young Han Solo origin story. Yet, the film has cultivated a dedicated following over time, appreciating its adventurous spirit.

The production saga of Solo remains a fascinating case study in blockbuster filmmaking. Howard’s revelation sheds new light on the high-stakes decisions and unexpected turns behind one of Star Wars‘ most talked-about chapters. Will Solo: A Star Wars Story find greater appreciation as time passes, or does its troubled birth define its legacy? Share your thoughts on the film’s enduring impact below.

Must Know

Why did Ron Howard replace the original Solo directors?
Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy and the studio reached a “creative impasse” with original directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. They felt there was a “tonal disconnect” and that Lord and Miller’s approach wasn’t working effectively for the Star Wars film they envisioned, leading to Howard being brought in for reshoots and to complete the film.

What role did George Lucas play in Solo’s production?
While not directly involved in day-to-day production, Lucas offered key advice to Ron Howard. Howard revealed that Lucas specifically reminded him, “Don’t forget the movie is for 12-year-old boys,” emphasizing the core youthful audience for the Star Wars saga.

Was Solo: A Star Wars Story a box office success?
No, Solo is widely considered a box office disappointment. It grossed $393.2 million worldwide against a very high production budget estimated at $275 million (before marketing), failing to turn a significant profit during its theatrical run.

How did Phil Lord and Christopher Miller react to being replaced?
According to Ron Howard, Lord and Miller were “incredibly gracious” throughout the transition process, despite the creative differences that led to Lucasfilm seeking a new director to complete the film.

Do fans like Solo: A Star Wars Story now?
Reception remains mixed. While initially met with lukewarm box office and some criticism, Solo has developed a dedicated cult following over the years. Many fans appreciate its performances, action sequences, and expansion of Han Solo’s backstory, though debates about its necessity and production issues persist.