The Star Wars franchise is accelerating into a fresh narrative era with the upcoming theatrical release of Star Wars: Starfighter. Directed by Shawn Levy and slated to arrive in theaters on May 28, 2027, the film introduces a high-performance spacecraft that shatters every previously established speed benchmark within the universe’s spacecraft hierarchy.
Unveiling the Fastest Starfighter in Franchise History
According to reports originating from a private footage presentation at Disney’s D23 Expo, the movie’s protagonist-pilot Kade Auberon, portrayed by Ryan Gosling, takes the helm of a decommissioned G17 Imperial Reaper. Within the narrative, this heavily modified vessel is explicitly described as the fastest starfighter ever built.
Lucasfilm has not yet released the trailer online and quickly moved to remove unauthorized fan-recorded versions circulating on social media. However, the D23 presentation provided a clear look at the scale of the project. The footage showcased Auberon preparing the ship, a new water planet, high-stakes chases, and troopers firing on escaping vessels.
Plot Timeline and Creative Direction
Set approximately five years after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Star Wars: Starfighter follows Kade Auberon alongside a young boy played by Flynn Gray. During the D23 event, Gosling summarized his character’s plight, describing Auberon as “a guy from the wrong side of the galaxy whose fate is intertwined with the fastest starfighter ever built.”
Industry leaders have already expressed high enthusiasm for the project. IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond visited the set and praised the film as “a throwback to the Harrison Ford kind of Star Wars.” Meanwhile, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige shared his reaction after viewing early material, stating that it delivered authentic franchise nostalgia while bringing a brand-new energy to the universe.
A Star-Studded Cast and Crew
Beyond Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray, the film features an ensemble cast including Mia Goth, Matt Smith, Amy Adams, Aaron Pierre, and Daniel Ings. Ings recently spoke about the collaborative environment on set, crediting director Shawn Levy and co-star Ryan Gosling for creating a playful, creative space that helped alleviate the pressure of stepping into a massive global legacy.
As production continues toward its May 28, 2027 premiere, Star Wars: Starfighter stands positioned as a major cinematic milestone, blending classic space-adventure roots with cutting-edge velocity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the release date for Star Wars: Starfighter?
Star Wars: Starfighter is scheduled to release in theaters on May 28, 2027.
Who is directing Star Wars: Starfighter?
The movie is directed by filmmaker Shawn Levy.
What is the name of Ryan Gosling’s character?
Ryan Gosling plays pilot Kade Auberon.
What makes the spacecraft in the movie unique?
Kade Auberon pilots a decommissioned G17 Imperial Reaper, which is established in the film as the fastest starfighter ever built in the Star Wars franchise.
When is the movie set on the timeline?
The story is set approximately five years after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.
