Ryan Gosling's Impact on the Film Industry: From "The Fall Guy" to "Star Wars: Starfighter"

Released in 2024, "The Fall Guy," directed by David Leitch and starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, did not achieve significant box office success. However, its impact on the film industry was notable, particularly in relation to the Academy Awards. In April 2025, the Academy announced the introduction of a new competitive category, the Academy Award for Achievement in Stunt Design, which will be awarded starting in 2028. This decision was influenced by the advocacy surrounding "The Fall Guy," which highlighted the importance of stunt coordinators and designers in filmmaking. Leitch noted that the film helped change the conversation about stunts as a legitimate craft, akin to production and costume design. The hope is that this new category will encourage future films to invest more in stunt work.

This Ryan Gosling Flop With 82% On Rotten Tomatoes Had A Big Impact On The OscarsStar Wars: Starfighter Movie Gets New Production UpdateShawn Levy Doubles Down On His Star Wars Movie's Place in The Faraway Galaxy'Starfighter' Director Shawn Levy Confirms New 'Star Wars' Movie Isn't a Prequel or Sequel [Exclusive]

Following "The Fall Guy," Ryan Gosling is set to star in "Star Wars: Starfighter," directed by Shawn Levy. This film, announced in April 2025, is positioned as an original story within the Star Wars universe, distinct from previous sequels or prequels. Levy emphasized that the film will introduce new characters and a fresh timeline, while still paying homage to legacy themes from the franchise. Filming began in late August 2025, and as of November 2025, production is reported to be past the halfway mark. The film is scheduled for release on May 28, 2027.

Deadpool and Wolverine director Shawn Levy says his Star Wars film "inherits legacy themes," but is "really trying" to be "something fresh, something new"

Shawn Levy expressed his excitement about the project, stating, "It is surreal and awesome every day walking onto this set, to have made up a new and original Star Wars story that is neither a sequel nor a prequel." He highlighted the creative freedom afforded by Lucasfilm, allowing the film to explore new narratives without being constrained by existing storylines. Gosling has also praised Levy's directorial vision, calling him "the perfect filmmaker for this particular story."

Shawn Levy Doubles Down On His Star Wars Movie's Place in The Faraway Galaxy

While the introduction of the Stunt Design category has been largely welcomed, some critics argue that it may not adequately address the broader issues of recognition and compensation for stunt professionals in the industry. The effectiveness of this change in genuinely elevating the status of stunt work remains to be seen.

This Ryan Gosling Flop With 82% On Rotten Tomatoes Had A Big Impact On The Oscars

As anticipation builds for "Star Wars: Starfighter," audiences can expect more promotional materials and updates as filming progresses. The film aims to deliver a unique cinematic experience while maintaining the core elements that define the Star Wars franchise. Meanwhile, the Academy's new stunt category may influence how future films approach action sequences and stunt work.

Star Wars: Starfighter Movie Gets New Production Update

• “It did change the conversation,” — David Leitch, Director of "The Fall Guy."

This Ryan Gosling Flop With 82% On Rotten Tomatoes Had A Big Impact On The Oscars

• “It is surreal and awesome every day walking onto this set, to have made up a new and original Star Wars story that is neither a sequel nor a prequel to anything,” — Shawn Levy, Director of "Star Wars: Starfighter."

Shawn Levy Doubles Down On His Star Wars Movie's Place in The Faraway Galaxy

• “There is not a more perfect filmmaker for this particular story than Shawn,” — Ryan Gosling on Shawn Levy

Shawn Levy Doubles Down On His Star Wars Movie's Place in The Faraway Galaxy