Star Wars: Rey’s New Jedi Order Movie to Explore Divisive Politics

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Summary

  • Writer George Nolfi will explore political themes in the upcoming Star Wars movie.
  • Nolfi plans to honor the established Star Wars tradition while integrating his own story into the New Jedi Order screenplay.
  • Fans’ criticisms of Star Wars’ perceived political agenda and push for diversity contrast with the franchise’s longstanding political themes.

Writer George Nolfi, who’s just joined Star Wars: New Jedi Order, has signaled his intention to delve deeper into a theme that George Lucas often touched upon in the Star Wars universe.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I was thrilled to learn about “Star Wars: New Jedi Order” at the bustling 2023 Star Wars Celebration event. It was there that Daisy Ridley confirmed her return as Rey Skywalker, with the upcoming movie focusing on her character establishing a new Jedi Order, fifteen years after the dramatic conclusion of “The Rise of Skywalker.”

Since then, numerous writers have come and gone from this project. However, it was in January 2025 that Michael Nolfi officially joined “Star Wars: New Jedi Order.

In an interview with Film Stories, it was hinted at potential political aspects that could appear in Nolfi’s Star Wars script. Nolfi, who has a background in politics and philosophy, seemed to affirm these speculations, acknowledging that the original Star Wars films were deeply rooted in broad political ideas. Similar to other fans and writers, Nolfi pointed out the similarities between the Galactic Empire and Nazi Germany, the rise of the Roman Empire and the fall of the Galactic Republic, and how power can be utilized for order yet ultimately oppress citizens. However, Nolfi emphasized that Star Wars is capable of delving into political themes without feeling like a lecture on politics or philosophy.

While not directly referring to modern times, there’s a parallel between the Empire in Star Wars and elements of Nazism and the Roman Empire. The democratic decline of the Roman Empire into an empire, and humanity’s constant struggle against disorder, often results in oppressive systems to maintain order. This seems to be a key theme that George Lucas intended to explore. One of the great aspects of science fiction like Star Wars is its ability to discuss profound issues without feeling like a lecture or a current news article. Instead, it can delve into significant matters while maintaining an entertaining and imaginative narrative.

Previously in this interview, an online publication questioned how Nolfi would incorporate his personal touch into a renowned franchise like Star Wars. As a third writer for Ridley’s New Jedi Order Star Wars film (preceded by Damon Lindelof & Justin Britt-Gibson and Steven Knight), with Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy as the director since 2022, Nolfi is joining an already impressive team. Yet, Nolfi clarified that he intends to build upon the ideas presented by his predecessors while crafting his unique story, all the while respecting the established foundation.

In my method, I examine the past events and the overarching concepts they aim to achieve. Essentially, this involves thinking like a writer, arranging story elements coherently. I envision characters and scenarios, always keeping in mind the need to uphold a rich legacy that spans decades of excellence.

Many enthusiasts are likely excited about Nolfi’s intentions to delve into profound themes in the upcoming New Jedi Order film. Yet, a segment of fans have expressed preferences for the Star Wars series to steer clear of political matters. These individuals (who might lean towards conservative views) contend that Star Wars has been advocating a specific political ideology since Disney obtained the intellectual property. They claim the franchise has grown too “woke,” with many expressing displeasure over what they perceive as an excessive push for diversity in casting. It’s worth noting that this criticism is often seen as merely a complaint about diverse representation. This was evident when Star Wars: The Acolyte faced review-bombing by trolls. While there are valid criticisms to be made regarding The Acolyte and the entire Star Wars franchise, it’s important to acknowledge that a significant group of ‘fans’ were only upset by Lucasfilm’s commitment to featuring more women, people of color, and individuals who weren’t white cis males.

Indeed, as Nolfi and others have pointed out, the Star Wars saga has consistently addressed political themes. George Lucas himself acknowledged that Star Wars drew partial inspiration from the Vietnam War and the Nixon administration, with the Galactic Empire serving as a metaphor for the U.S. government at the time. Although the prequel trilogy was met with mixed reviews when it first came out, more recent analyses suggest that they display political acumen. The trade dispute depicted in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace was initially criticized, but gained renewed relevance following U.S. President Donald Trump’s implementation of a trade war against Canada, Mexico, and China. In essence, Star Wars has consistently tackled politics and weighty issues and appears set to continue doing so in the future.

Star Wars: New Jedi Order is in development at Lucasfilm.

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2025-02-05 01:58