'Looper' director Johnson to write, direct 'Star Wars' VIII – reports
TAKING IT ON. Reports say that Rian will be helming 'Star Wars: Episode VIII.' File photo of Rian Johnson from Agence France-Presse
MANILA, Philippines – Action film director Rian Johnson is up for an inter-galatic adventure as he in talks of writing and directing Star Wars: Episode VIII and write for Star Wars: Episode IX, The Hollywood Reporter said.
Reports of Johnson's involvement have also been reported by Variety, Entertainment Weekly, and Deadline.
Johnson is known for writing and directing original projects like 2012's Looper, a time-travel saga. He also directed a few episodes of AMC's Breaking Bad, including the season finale.
Ram Bergman, who produced Looper, Don Jon, and Brick, will also be joining the Star Wars production bandwagon for the project, according to multiple sources.
Hiring the 40-year-old Johnson is part of Lucasfilm's strategy of recruiting directors who grew up with Star Wars, according to Entertainment Weekly.
Star Wars: Episode VII – being directed by action and sci-fi producer J.J. Abrams – is currently being filmed. Original Star Wars cast member Harrison Ford, reportedly broke his leg while filming. The latest movie is set for a December 2015 release.
Johnson did not directly comment. – Rappler.com
