Fans of both Star Wars and Rian Johnson's unique filmmaking style have long wondered about the fate of the ambitious Star Wars trilogy Johnson was developing with Lucasfilm. Now, the acclaimed director has finally shed light on why those plans ultimately fell apart. In a recent interview, Johnson explained that the success and demands of his critically lauded murder mystery, Knives Out, ultimately led him to prioritize that project, effectively sidelining his Star Wars trilogy.

The story began in 2017 when Johnson, fresh off the divisive but undeniably impactful Star Wars: The Last Jedi, was tapped by Lucasfilm to create a new trilogy set within the Star Wars universe. This was a significant move, signaling a desire to diversify the franchise and bring in fresh creative voices. Johnson, known for his clever narratives and distinctive visual style, seemed like a perfect fit.

However, around the time Johnson was beginning to flesh out his Star Wars ideas, he was approached with the concept for Knives Out. This project, a twisty, star-studded whodunit, resonated deeply with Johnson's creative instincts. He found himself increasingly drawn to the story and the opportunity to work on a smaller, more contained project with a quicker turnaround.

“It really just came down to the fact that Knives Out just sort of took over,” Johnson explained. “I was developing both at the same time, but Knives Out just grabbed me in a way that wouldn’t let go. And then, as it got closer to actually making Knives Out, it just became clear that I couldn't do both at once.”

The production of Knives Out proved to be a massive success, both critically and commercially. The film garnered rave reviews for its sharp writing, witty performances, and clever plot. Its success opened doors for a sequel, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, further solidifying Johnson's position as a leading force in the mystery genre.

While some Star Wars fans may be disappointed that Johnson’s trilogy never materialized, his decision to prioritize Knives Out ultimately led to the creation of two highly entertaining and innovative films. Johnson's explanation highlights the unpredictable nature of creative endeavors and the challenges of juggling multiple projects, even for a filmmaker of his caliber. The Star Wars universe remains vast and open to new stories, and while Johnson's vision for it remains unseen, his contribution to the franchise with The Last Jedi continues to be debated and analyzed.

Looking ahead, Johnson is undoubtedly focused on expanding the Knives Out universe, and fans are eagerly anticipating what mysteries he will unravel next. His story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected detours can lead to the most rewarding creative journeys.