Warning: Possible SPOILERS ahead for Han Solo
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Not long after Disney purchased Lucasfilm, they announced to many excited fans that the Skywalker family's adventure would continue. Equally exciting, they declared their intention to add “anthology” films, or features based on Star Wars characters and stories loosely connected to the main trilogies, into the mix. In 2015, Lucasfilm made Han Solo's youth the focus of their second standalone picture.
Transpiring roughly ten years before the first Star Wars trilogy, the Untitled Han Solo Anthology Film will chronicle Han's foray into smuggling, as well as his relationship with Wookiee copilot and best friend Chewbacca, his “Imperial Entanglements,” and so much more. Thus far, the Solo shot has suffered a few setbacks, including a bumpy production marred by major directorial changes. But things seem to have settled down. With a new director aboard and reshoots underway, the Han and crew are back on course.
Here’s everything we know about the scruffy-looking nerf herder’s anthology film so far.
The Movie Remains Untitled
When filming started last winter, the working title was listed as “Red Cup” -- a joke on the red, plastic cups made by the Solo Cup Company. The first scene was entitled “Han Solo first shot,” a reference to the debate over George Lucas’ Star Wars Special Edition, which digitally altered the scene to make Greedo shoot before Han (supposedly to make Han more kid-friendly).
Several months later, purported crew members tweeted two different versions of production shirts, suggesting the film will be titled Star Wars: Solo. One logo sported Han’s signature DL-44 blaster as the “L” in the logo while another featured the classic Star Wars font. Another possible name arrived via leaked images of Lego toys, which teased the film’s name as, unsurprisingly, Han Solo: A Star Wars Story.
So far, Disney hasn’t revealed the official title, so fans can only speculate whether either title might stick.
Lucasfilm Fired Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller
One of the most controversial aspects of the young Han movie was its directorial issues. Initially given full confidence, directors Chris Miller and Phil Lord apparently rubbed several key Lucasfilm personnel the wrong way. Four months into production, with several weeks of shooting left, they exited the film, citing creative differences. Soon after, reports of internal conflicts trickled out, and Lucasfilm admitted to firing the directors – a move criticized by some (notably John Landis) and defended by others.
The pair apparently felt creatively stifled by Lucasfilm, who found their comedic tone inappropriate for the franchise. They also butted heads with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy over not shooting enough takes (meaning less raw footage to choose from for the final edit). They also reportedly deviated from the script, earning the ire of writer Lawrence Kasdan.
In addition, Disney probably booted the directorial duo from the picture before Directors’ Guild rules awarded them control of the final cut. At this point, Lord and Miller could be allowed a director’s cut, although it’s unlikely. Lucasfilm quickly hired Ron Howard to finish the shoot. Fears that the production was doomed or unsalvageable will (hopefully) prove unfounded.
Ron Howard Replaces Lord and Miller
Lucasfilm took Lord and Miller off the Han Solo movie on June 20, 2017. Two days later, they hired Oscar-winner Ron Howard (In the Heart of the Sea) to finish production and engage in potentially extensive reshoots. Howard proclaimed his desire to “honor” the previous directors’ work and dove right in. Since taking over, he’s made a point of reassuring fans with continual social media updates and images from the set, becoming Lucasfilm’s least-secretive (though still spoiler-free) director to date.
Han Solo Is Probably Undergoing Extensive Reshoots
Even though much of the footage shot by Lord and Miller was usable, the duo was reportedly behind schedule. As a result, the Han Solo movie still required a good deal of further filming. Howard arrived to finish roughly 3 weeks of shooting and five weeks of reshoots. At present, he’s filmed for roughly 12 weeks (probably including principal photography and reshoots), but the production rolls on, even though several major players have wrapped.
The full extent of what Lord and Miller completed versus what Howard is changing and rearranging is unclear. However, Howard is presumably tweaking several aspects of the movie, reshooting some of the dialogue to adjust for tone, and filming coverage shots for editorial purposes. He’s already brought in several new actors for new scenes due to script changes, reshoots, and actor availability. Lucasfilm also may have tasked him with recreating certain several action scenes as well.
Alden Ehrenreich Stars as Han Solo
After a massive casting call featuring roughly 2500 actors, Alden Ehrenreich (Hail, Caesar!) landed the coveted (but daunting) job of stepping in Harrison Ford’s massive boots. The casting was mostly based upon his performance as one-trick cowboy star Hobie Doyle in the Coen Brother's offbeat comedy, although Ehrenreich boasts a solid filmography beyond Caesar!. After filming started, the first shots surfaced of him in full smuggler regalia, looking very much the part.
Several months later, though, hints of trouble emerged from the set. His performance apparently earned some scowls from Disney higher-ups. As a result, Lucasfilm reportedly hired an acting coach to coax the optimum nerf herder out of the young actor. Of course, this incident was revealed immediately after the film’s major directorial shift.
As such, Ehrenreich’s skills were likely less-problematic than the overall tone of the film. Since then, Disney seems pleased with the actor, at least according to his work in a sizzle reel. His costars have also supported his dedication to and take on the character.
Donald Glover Plays Lando Calrissian
When Disney announced the Han Solo anthology, fans wondered who else from his nefarious past would drop by – in particular, whether comrade and rival Lando Calrissian would play a role. After a brief search for the cosmic smoothie, one-time directors Lord and Miller announced that Atlanta and Spider-Man: Homecoming actor Donald Glover had landed the coveted role.
A multifaceted actor, writer, director, and musician, Glover is a fantastic choice for the role. His presence also lends the picture some indie cred. The actor later admitted he couldn’t refuse the opportunity. He even met up with original Lando actor Billy Dee Williams to discuss the suave future administrator of Cloud City. Most importantly, he nailed the Lando ‘stache and knows how to rock a cape or two.
Emilia Clarke Is Probably the Female Lead
Initially, reports held that producers were looking for a non-white lead, suggesting to fans that favorite comic book character Sana Starros would transition to the big screen. Shortly before production began, Lucasfilm announced that they’d cast Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) to “round out a dynamic cast of characters Han and Chewie will encounter on their adventures.” As one of the biggest names attached to the film, though, Clarke is plausibly the lead actress alongside Ehrenreich's Solo.
After several months of filming, her character’s name was probably revealed as Kira. Initially, she would be introduced to Han via Michael K. Williams’ character. Since Williams was cut, though, it’s unclear how she’ll link up with the young smuggler or even what her role in the film is. The name "reveal" also led to fan speculation that Clarke’s character is Rey’s mother, as Rey was originally named Kira in earlier versions of The Force Awakens' script. However, their characters are likely unconnected.
Woody Harrelson Plays Han’s Mentor
Woody Harrelson was one of the first big names cast for the production. Initially, Harrelson was reported to canonize Legends character Garris Shrike, Solo’s mentor and adversary from Ann C. Crispin’s novel The Paradise Snare. However, the actor’s response to a talk show question was apparently taken out of context. Lucasfilm Story Group head Pablo Hidalgo later disputed claims that Harrelson was playing Shrike.
Later, the Zombieland actor revealed his character name is Beckett, who, like Shrike, takes an orphaned Han under his wing, teaching him to survive and thrive in the seedy underworld. Despite all the confusion, Beckett probably skews close to Shrike in the story. He may even be an analog to Crispin’s character or another pre-existing Expanded Universe one, assuming he’s not an original creation.
Han Solo Has a Strong Supporting Cast
Initial casting wrapped up shortly before production began. In addition to Clarke, Glover, Harrelson, and Ehrenreich, Han Solo also features renowned actress Thandie Newton (Westworld) in a supporting role. Also, Joonas Suotamo reprised his The Force Awakens role as Chewbacca and Phoebe Waller-Bridge may be portraying a female droid or some manner of digitally generated character.
Since the directorial shakeup, other actors joined the production, including Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok from Return of the Jedi) in an undisclosed role and director Ron Howard’s brother Clint. Paul Bettany is the most recent addition to the company. Some speculated he was hired to replace Michael K. Williams’ character (more below).
At present, though, little is known about any of the secondary cast and most don't even have officially released names.
Michael K. Williams Is Out, Paul Bettany Is In
Originally, Williams’ character was supposedly integral to introducing Ehrenreich's Han to Emily Clarke’s "Kira." After Ron Howard replaced Lord and Miller, the film or script underwent some revisions. Unfortunately for Williams’ character, scheduling conflicts with another movie kept him from the reshoots. Further rumors suggested that Paul Bettany was hired to replace him.
Since then, though, it was revealed that Bettany plays a human character while Williams’ role was partially computer generated, in theory, discrediting those reports. Williams also confirmed that all his scenes were shot prior to the directorial shakeup but that his footage and role was chopped from the film for the most part.
The Plot
In 2015, screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan discussed the project, describing Han’s journey as:
“You know, he’s younger in this [spinoff] movie and that’s fun because you have to imagine him 10 years earlier in his early 20s. What was he like before he hardened up? Before he had some setbacks? Before he put on this cynical coat? What got him there?”
For certain, Han Solo will explore the galactic scoundrel’s formative years. Disney CEO Bob Iger announced that the film will cover six years of Han’s life, from ages 18-24. It could delve into his time as an Imperial cadet, depending upon whether they canonize certain aspect of Legends. The anthology will also deal with his relationship to seedy mentor Beckett (Harrelson). Given his established history, it's reasonable to assume the film will depict his competitive friendship with Lando Calrissian (Glover) up and to including the fabled sabacc game during which Han wins the Millennium Falcon.
Most importantly, the anthology should establish Han and Chewbacca’s friendship and explore events leading to Chewie's life debt to the lovable scoundrel – possibly depicting Han’s rescue of Chewie from Imperials or slavers. It will almost certainly include the legendary Kessel Run, perhaps even showcasing the infamous moment where the Millennium Falcon makes the dangerous hike in “12 parsecs.”
Han Solo Introduces Classic Star Wars Planets
Considering all the official and unofficial lore surrounding Han, his standalone film should introduce several notable but as of yet unseen planets. In particular, his homeworld of Corellia is of particular interest. It figured significantly into the Aftermath novel trilogy by Chuck Wendig – which explored details from Han's past, present, and set up his role in The Force Awakens. Both Corellia and Kessel (of the Kessel Run) are rumored to make their cinematic debut in the anthology.
Speaking of the latter, Howard recently tweeted a sneak peek at a mine-like setting, using the caption, "Spicey." The director is probably referring to the notorious spice mines of Kessel, the place C3PO feared the Empire would send the Rebel droids to be "smashed into who knows what," at the onset of A New Hope. This is exciting due to Han's time spent as a spice smuggler, running the illicit drug for Hutt gangs. Howard's image pretty much confirms Kessel's role in the film.
Another recent Ron Howard social media post hinted at a cantina scene, one reminiscent of Mos Eisley Spaceport in A New Hope. A different set photo also teased a desert-like environ, which some theorized was Corellia. However, Han’s homeworld is often described as heavily industrialized (shipbuilding is the primary industry), urbanized, and teaming with temperate forests as well. In theory, the saga could also tie into Tatooine (or even Nal Hutta), establishing his familiarity with the planet and setting up his fateful meet-and-greet with Obi-Wan. If Jabba plays a role in the film, a visit to the desert planet would also make sense.
The Millennium Falcon Will Be Brand New
Speaking of Star Wars lore, Han winning the Millennium Falcon from Lando remains a quintessential piece of his backstory. After Leia Organa, the Falcon is the love of his life. Any movie digging into the smuggler’s early years must explore his past with the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.
Supposedly, fans will watch Han win the ship from Lando during that fateful hand of sabacc. Not only that but we'll get to see the Falcon in its prime. The crisp, new ship is described as glistening white with blue highlights (think R2-D2 after his restoration in A New Hope). The young Falcon may also incorporate a cargo pod, used for smuggling, which increases its size and carrying capacity.
Han Solo Deals With The Empire
In his Expanded Universe tales, an orphaned Han Solo joined the Imperial Navy. At one point, he saved a Wookiee from being brutalized by his commanding officer. The act got him drummed out of the Navy but won him a lifelong friend in Chewbacca. Chuck Wendig’s Aftermath: Life Debt novel, which falls under official canon, refers to Chewie’s liberation but leaves most of the story untold. The Han Solo Movie should canonize some of his involvement with the Empire but to what degree is unclear.
Even if Han doesn’t serve as a cadet, he’ll still have plenty of opportunities for Imperial entanglements as a smuggler. Ron Howard already confirmed their presence in a recent set photo. Despite their galaxy-sized shadow, their influence in the film remains a mystery, although they'll definitely affect Han's life in some harmful manner.
Jabba the Hutt May Play a Role
Since the Han Solo picture may incorporate the planet Kessel, a desert world, and old (life) debts, it wouldn’t be surprising if Jabba turns up. There’s already a great deal of backstory to pack into Han’s story, though, so perhaps the slimy Hutt crime boss will merely get a mention or a bit role, hopefully as more than fan service. While reports of his appearance are little more than rumors at this point, Jabba's connection to the smuggler is undeniably long-term and impactful.
Who Is the Main Villain?
So far, Han’s principal enemy remains a closely guarded secret. The Empire will make an appearance, which would jive with Han’s possible stint in the Imperial Navy (EU or otherwise). At the same time, Lucasfilm may limit their use (to avoid franchise overexposure) and turn them into a secondary adversary. Another possible adversary is Harrelson’s Bennett. If he’s anything like Legends mentor Garris Shrike, who turns out quite vindictive, Han could disobey him, incurring his mentor's wrath.
Of course, Jabba could be the main villain... but probably isn’t. Rumors of a Boba Fett tie-in are the best sort of fandom wishful thinking, although a cameo is conceivable. The new character played by Paul Bettany might be a heavy, but like Michael K. Williams he might also simply be a "warrior" that Han teams up with or battles. Bettany's time on set seems too brief for a major adversary. Even Darth Vader’s name has cropped up from time to time but like Rogue One, he'd probably appear as a bit player or cameo.
Perhaps a single foe is too simple of an equation for Han Solo. The lovable scoundrel could face any combination of Imperial force, bounty hunters, and crime bosses.
The Film Has a “Heist or Western” Feel
Before production began, Kathleen Kennedy described the film as:
“[Han Solo] moves closer to a heist or Western type feel. We’ve talked about [Frederic] Remington and those primary colors that are used in his paintings defining the look and feel of the film.”
Since Han Solo was inspired by a gunslinger archetype, her account makes sense. Plus, he’s a smuggler. What better way to showcase a slick, nti-hero than by testing his capabilities in a series of impactful showdowns, with a heist or even a Kessel Run. Tacking closer to a heist or western also gives the anthology series a different feel from the space opera of the main trilogy.
Before Lord and Miller were removed, of course, the film apparently veered too close to straight comedy. With Ron Howard on board, though, the script is probably closer to the way Lawrence Kasdan envisioned it (with an outlaw dramedy feel?). Either way, if the higher-ups are happier with it, that probably means Han Solo is back in western/heist territory.
Han Solo Was Written By Lawrence Kasdan and His Son
Wary fans breathed a sigh of relief when Disney announced that Lawrence Kasdan would handle the film. The producer, director, and co-writer of Empire Strikes Back and The Force Awakens Kasdan is already a Star Wars icon and veteran. This time, he brought along his capable writer/director son, Jon Kasdan, as a co-writer. While the younger Kasdan isn’t as accomplished as his father, he brings several well-received credits to the table, as well as younger eyes to gaze at his father's wisdom.
Sadly, the elder Kasdan claims Han Solo will be his last creative effort in the Star Wars universe. Hopefully, Kasdan, or at least his son, remain with the franchise in future.
Composer John Powell Will Score Han Solo
Rogue One already broke with Star Wars tradition by using Pixar composer Michael Giacchino, rather than John Williams, to score the soundtrack. Similarly, Han Solo will diverge from the formula, bringing in British composer John Powell. Responsible for scoring several of the Jason Bourne films and How to Train Your Dragon, Powell is a nuanced industry veteran with dozens of moving soundtracks to his name. Lucasfilm also promised the anthology “will be scored in the style of the original Star Wars movies but retain Powell’s distinctive voice.”
Han Solo Likely Features New Ships and Vehicles
So far, the plot of Han Solo remains a relative mystery. What is clear: the young protagonist is no slouch with a speeder or a spaceship. Recently hired director Ron Howard wasted little time, posting an image of Han’s speeder car on social media. In addition, one previous set video showcased a speeder crash or “‘drag race’ with ‘odd looking vehicles.’” Considering the action-oriented nature of Star Wars, and Han’s own need for speed (Kessel Run, space races, etc.), fleet, new vehicles in his standalone are almost guaranteed. After all, entering a race is a great way to keep Hutt bounty hunters off your tail... at least in theory.
In addition to new speeders and a crisp Millennium Falcon, several other pieces of concept art have surfaced, showing off curious new designs. Some may not make it into the final film, but Lucasfilm loves to dream up new vehicles for fans (and Hasbro merchandising). Among the sketches are a boxy, officious-looking Imperial landing or patrol craft (the stormtroopers are a dead giveaway), an apparent AT-AT (or AT-ACT) undercarriage, an X-Wing inspired fighter, another stylish fighter or gunboat, a freighter or troop carrier, and something that looks suspiciously like a pod racer (*shudder*).
One way or another, Star Wars fans are guaranteed some hyperspeed action on land, in the air, and in space.
Maz Kanata Might Show Up
Rumor has it a certain ancient, Force-sensitive being could stop by the Han Solo anthology. During a San Diego Comic-Con interview, a Funko toy rep praised the film’s stellar cast, including Lupita NYong'o among them. Sure, the rep could’ve misspoken, seeing as NYong’o is also in The Last Jedi and The Force Awakens (as well as Marvel's Black Panther). Given Maz’s longevity and familiarity with Han, as well as the toy company’s potential insider knowledge – they have to plan their merchandise out well in advance to manufacture and ship by the appropriate release date – the wizened alien isn't an unreasonable castmate.
Han Solo Could Become a Trilogy
Lucasfilm's general attitude suggests that anthology films are one-shot deals (Rogue One, point in case). However, some speculated the Han Solo film is a trilogy in the works. An “insider” at the New York Daily News reported that Ehrenreich had signed a multi-film contract with Lucasfilm. If so, it could indicate three-parter in progress, something which there’s more than enough source material for, both in Legends and canon. Even so, any sequel plans are heavily dependent on a successful first outing.
Of course, Lucasfilm hasn’t confirmed a multi-picture deal for Ehrenreich. Even if he did sign on for more than one movie, it could indicate his presence in additional anthology films, unrelated projects, or Disney's desire to keep a consistent face on young Han Solo just in case.
Darth Vader (Probably) Won’t Be in It
At one point, there were rumors that Spencer Wilding (the imposing Vader actor from Rogue One) had joined the Han Solo cast. Wilding himself debunked the speculation on Facebook. Of course, his denial could be a smokescreen.
Yet another recent report pointed to another actor in the Sith Lord's costume lurking around the set. If true, the fallen Jedi might be a last minute addition to the film, much like in Rogue One. Of course, this isn’t proof of his appearance, merely hearsay.
True, including Vader in the movie has some understood perks, such as an instantly recognizable "face." At the same time, relying on their infamous evildoer to put butts in seats is a bad habit for Lucasfilm to get into – especially if the anthology films want to move away from the Skywalker tales and focus on less-connected characters.
Where Is Han Solo Filming?
Principle filming began on February 21st at Pinewood Studios in England, where Episode VII, VIII, and Rogue One also shot. According to IMDb, the anthology also filmed on Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, and the mountainous Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy. A shorter sequence was also shot in Southampton, England.
Han Solo Has a New Release Date
Despite the myriad problems and delays, the Untitled Han Solo Film is still slated to open on May 25, 2018. In addition, several LEGO sets also confirmed their own release date (several days prior), providing further indication that the production is on-course. This intimates Disney’s confidence in new director Ron Howard and the project, even though there’s still quite a bit of work left before post-production kicks into gear.
Given all the issues, no one would blame Lucasfilm for bumping the film’s release date back.
Han Solo and Star Wars Related News
Donald Glover ‘Would Be Honored’ to Direct a Star Wars Movie
Harrison Ford Would ‘Rather Not’ Return to Star Wars Again
John Landis Criticizes Lucasfilm For Star Wars Director Firings
Next: Han Solo Needs to Be Delayed to December 2018
Source: IMDb
