Patty Jenkins is reportedly still directing Star Wars spinoff movie Rogue Squadron despite a delay over creative differences. The upcoming project was announced during Disney's Investors Day in December 2020 and scheduled for a December 2023 release, making it the first new Star Wars movie since The Rise of Skywalker. During the reveal, Jenkins spoke passionately about Rogue Squadron, using her personal love of flying as a springboard to tell a story in the galaxy far, far away. With Jenkins helming the successful Wonder Woman movies for WB, there was much excitement to see what she could bring to Star Wars.
Unfortunately, Rogue Squadron has had some trouble getting off the ground. Earlier this year, it was announced Rogue Squadron was delayed, with reports citing creative differences between Jenkins and Lucasfilm. Since Disney purchased Lucasfilm in 2012, these kinds of behind-the-scenes issues have been quite common, raising questions if Jenkins would stick around or leave the project altogether. Based on the newest info, it sounds like Rogue Squadron is still on her docket.
In Deadline's report on Jenkins stepping down from directing Cleopatra, it's mentioned her decision was made so she could focus on franchise installments Wonder Woman 3 and Rogue Squadron. The outlet does not mention how far along Rogue Squadron is, or how close the previous problems are to being resolved. As of now, Rogue Squadron is still slated for a 2023 release.
Typically, if a director experiences creative differences with a studio, it ends with them departing the project. But based on this, it sounds like Jenkins and Lucasfilm are still committed to working together. Perhaps whatever disagreements the parties have aren't so severe, and Jenkins will be able to rework the story so it better aligns with Lucasfilm's overall vision for the Star Wars franchise. Of course, there's still a chance Jenkins eventually steps down from Rogue Squadron should these differences persist, but it's encouraging to hear she remains on board for the time being. After some public falling outs with high-profile filmmakers, it would be nice if Lucasfilm was able to make things work with Jenkins.
It will be interesting to see if Wonder Woman 3 or Rogue Squadron comes to fruition first. The former does not have a release date, but the Wonder Woman 3 script is currently being worked on and it will definitely be a priority for WB moving forward. At the same time, Gal Gadot is still starring in Cleopatra despite Jenkins moving to a producing role, which could impact the Wonder Woman 3 timeline. Since Paramount decided to bring Kari Skogland in to direct Cleopatra, they seem keen on getting that one into production sooner rather than later. Depending on Gadot's schedule, Jenkins may ultimately choose to make Rogue Squadron before Wonder Woman 3.
Source: Deadline
