Ryan Gosling, Flynn Gray: First look for Star Wars: Starfighter stars Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray revealed

The first official still from Star Wars: Starfighter has been released by director Shawn Levy. The image shows Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray standing on the deck of a vessel at sea, captioned “Somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea”. Gosling is positioned at a mounted harpoon-like device, wearing a black shirt and gloves, his face marked with dirt and bruises.

Gray appears beside him, wearing a beige shirt and blue trousers with tools fastened at his waist. His stance suggests he is steadying himself against the ship’s motion.

The background of the photo features clear skies and open water, with sunlight reflecting on the vessel’s equipment. According to Cosmic Book News, this choice of maritime setting is a departure from the more familiar Star Wars landscapes. The image points toward survival and confrontation themes within the new narrative.

As reported by Variety, Star Wars: Starfighter is scheduled for release on May 28, 2027. The standalone film is directed by Shawn Levy, written by Jonathan Tropper, and produced by Lucasfilm with 21 Laps Entertainment. It will take place five years after The Rise of Skywalker, marking a new chapter in the timeline.

Film overview and timeline

According to Deadline, Star Wars: Starfighter is set five years after Episode IX and will not continue the Skywalker plotline. Levy has clarified that it is a standalone story, opening a section of the Star Wars timeline that has not been depicted on screen.

Collider reported that this shift enables filmmakers to establish new conflicts and characters outside previously told arcs. The first look photo reinforces this by showing Gosling and Gray in a maritime scenario, suggesting travel and conflict in environments unexplored within the franchise.

Cast and characters of Star Wars: Starfighter

The central roles are played by Ryan Gosling and Flynn Gray. Gosling also serves as an executive producer, according to ScreenRant. Gray, noted as a newcomer, appears alongside him in promotional material, implying a major role.

Other cast members are Matt Smith, Daniel Ings, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Amy Adams, Simon Bird, and Jamael Westman. As reported by StarWars.com, the wide ensemble indicates multiple perspectives will feature in the storyline.

Production details

Filming began in the United Kingdom in 2025. Jonathan Tropper wrote the script after development delays linked to the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike. According to World of Reel, the released photo confirms that filming also took place on the Mediterranean Sea.

The practical ship setting suggests a distinct tone compared to the desert or urban landscapes common in earlier films. Production is under Lucasfilm and 21 Laps Entertainment, with distribution by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

Director’s vision and industry context

In an interview with Variety that was quoted, Shawn Levy said he enjoyed doing Star Wars: Starfighter as a career highlight. He explained his aim to bring a fresh feel that is still faithful to the existing cinematic universe.

Per WDWNT, the film is one of several planned by Lucasfilm as part of an overall plan to produce more theatrical releases following The Rise of Skywalker. Placed between such films as The Mandalorian & Grogu (2026) and other projects previously announced, the release makes up the next phase of franchise growth.