Key Takeaways:
– Donald Glover's portrayal of Lando Calrissian will now proceed as a film, not a series.
– Justin Simien, who initially spearheaded the project, sparked controversy with an ill-received analogy comparing the loss of the series to losing a child.
– Stephen and Donald Glover take on creative control following Simien's departure.
A Stirring Departure and a Fresh Start
Following a transformative debut as the younger Lando Calrissian in Solo: A Star Wars Story, renowned actor Donald Glover finds himself back in the iconic role. Initially, a Disney Plus spinoff series was on the cards for Glover. The project took a dramatic turn after the series' director, Justin Simien, walked away. Glover, alongside his brother Stephen Glover, took over the reigns, leading to the announcement that the series would transition into a film.
Unnerving Comparisons Stirring Controversy
Emmy-winning director Justin Simien, remembered for his work on Dear White People, opened up about the emotional rollercoaster of leaving the Lando project. Simien shared that his departure felt akin to losing a child, stating in an interview with Collider, “You pour so much of your heart and soul into something…it is a true grieving process.”
Simien's controversial analogy has raised many eyebrows, causing a barrage of criticisms from fans. Many find the comparison misplaced and insensitive, contesting that the demise of a TV show cannot mirror the heart-wrenching pain of losing a child. A slew of disheartened fans took to Twitter to express their disappointment at Simien's comments.
Redesigning Lando Calrissian's Story
Regardless of Solo: A Star Wars Story's subpar performance at the box office, Glover's depiction of Lando Calrissian was highly praised. Following the changing of hands and the controversy surrounding Simien's departure, the spotlight is now firmly placed on the Glover brothers. They have the monumental task of reprising the appreciated character of Lando in a fresh format.
While the Star Wars franchise boasts a track record of successful series like Ahsoka, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and The Mandalorian, its silver screen outings beyond the celebrated Skywalker Saga have had hit-and-miss results. Besides Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, solo character films, including solo: A Star Wars Story, have not fared well at the box office.
A Fresh Hope for a Lando Legacy
Stephen Glover mentioned on the Pablo Torres Finds Out podcast that the reinvented Lando project is currently shaping up as a film rather than a series. He added that a strike has contributed to a game of ‘telephone' where information twists and turns.
Although there is no confirmation about a new director for the film, both Glover brothers remain creatively involved. As lovers of Star Wars eagerly await more details about this reinvented project, they are fervently hoping this film will break the curse of the previously lackluster character-focused Star Wars ventures.
Despite the controversies and hardships, the Lando film project stands as a beacon of hope, holding potential in leaving an indelible mark on the Star Wars franchise and reviving the beloved character for a new generation.
