An upcoming Star Wars movie, which is now in the scripting stage, will be directed by Pakistani filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, according to a Lucasfilm announcement.
Since Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker in 2019, the entertainment firm has primarily focused on TV projects including The Mandalorian, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Andor. The movie will be their first significant big-screen release since that time. Obaid-Chinoy, who received Oscars for her documentary shorts Saving Face and A Girl in the River, will collaborate with Damon Lindelof on the screenplay.
Daisy Ridley will reprise her role as Rey in her film, which is set after the events of The Rise of Skywalker, as she creates a new Jedi Order. The script was written by Steven Knight of Peaky Blinders. The undertaking represents several turning points for the series, including Obaid-Chinoy becoming the first female and person of color to serve as director of a Star Wars film. Three new live-action Star Wars movies are in development, according to Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm, with directors Dave Filoni, James Mangold, and Obaid-Chinoy already attached.
Just revealed at #StarWarsCelebration, Kathleen Kennedy welcomes James Mangold, Dave Filoni & Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on stage as future directors of three new upcoming Star Wars films. pic.twitter.com/v2os1tdHJH
— Star Wars (@starwars) April 7, 2023
The renowned director said in an exclusive interview with Express Tribune that “I have always been drawn to the stories of the underdogs who have succeeded against every challenge. The Davids and Goliaths conflict. The athletic team surprised everyone by defeating the untouchable champions. Nelson Mandela fought for freedom for many years, never giving up, and won. These stories are what the world needs more of!” Obaid-Chinoy continued, “The plotlines of the things we see on television should be grounded in truth. In my opinion, the essence of Star Wars is in the real-world warriors I’ve met throughout my life who have fought against insurmountable challenges and emerged victorious from the most oppressive of empires. The idea of a new Jedi Order and everything the Jedi stand for are what initially drew me to them. I can’t wait to tell the world about this.”
The director posted on Instagram, saying, “It has been quite a day in London. The word is out! News has already been released! Daisy Ridley’s return to the galaxy and my upcoming role as director of the next Star Wars film have me incredibly excited. The hero’s journey has always drawn me in, and we need more heroes in this world.
As soon as the news surfaced, a number of Pakistani celebs posted heartfelt messages on their individual social media pages. According to Mehwish Hayat, “And it starts in a galaxy far, far away.” I’m happy for you, Sharmeen. With your incredible achievements, you continue to inspire pride throughout the entire nation. I wish you the best and am excited to witness the magic you will bring to the Star Wars universe. May the force be with you. On the filmmaker’s post, Mahira Khan left a remark with the phrase “Insane! Very cool indeed! MashAllah! Congratulations.”
Mahira Khan also congratulated Obaid-Chinoy on Instagram via her story. The Superstar actor tweeted, “Represent!” “I’m so, so proud. Make us proud by continuing to do so! MashAllah!” On the director’s Instagram post, Wajahat Rauf and Adnan Malik both left comments. Congratulations,” Rauf wrote. While Malik wrote, “What a journey you are about to begin! I am really happy for you! And us.”
