Bye, Rian. No More Star Wars For You

Overview

This episode critiques Rian Johnson's controversial tenure with the Star Wars franchise, focusing on the fallout from The Last Jedi, the divisive reception among fans, and the eventual cancellation of his planned Star Wars trilogy. It also explores Johnson's career trajectory post-Star Wars, including his pivot to murder mystery films like Knives Out.

Notable Quotes

- The film in his mind was literal perfection. And if you couldn't see that, then you were clearly too stupid to occupy the same planet as his cosmic genius. - The Critical Drinker, on Rian Johnson's dismissive attitude toward criticism of The Last Jedi.

- Even someone as stubbornly [__] as Kathleen Kennedy would have to know that pushing ahead with a whole trilogy of movies overseen by a guy less popular than the [__] Ebola virus was something that even she couldn't afford to indulge in. - The Critical Drinker, on the decision to quietly shelve Johnson's trilogy.

- At least they keep him from [__] up any more franchises. - The Critical Drinker, on Johnson's pivot to the Knives Out series.

🎥 The Fallout of *The Last Jedi*

- The Critical Drinker describes The Last Jedi as arguably the single most destructive and divisive movie in the whole history of cinema, citing its role in fracturing the Star Wars fanbase and derailing the sequel trilogy.

- Johnson's attitude toward criticism is highlighted as a major source of contention, with his dismissive and mocking responses alienating fans further.

- The infamous subversion of expectations approach is critiqued as prioritizing shock value over coherent storytelling.

🤔 Kathleen Kennedy's Endorsement

- Kathleen Kennedy, then head of Lucasfilm, is portrayed as steadfastly supporting Johnson despite the backlash, even promising him a trilogy before The Last Jedi had premiered.

- Her motivations are speculated to include Johnson's alignment with her political sensibilities and his ability to deliver a film on time and within budget.

- The episode critiques Kennedy's refusal to publicly cancel the trilogy, suggesting she avoided admitting the failure of The Last Jedi.

📽️ Rian Johnson's Career Pivot

- Johnson's explanation for the trilogy's cancellation—his focus on Knives Out—is met with skepticism, as he has only released two films in seven years.

- The episode suggests Lucasfilm quietly shelved the trilogy due to the toxic reception of The Last Jedi and Johnson's polarizing reputation among fans.

- Johnson's murder mystery films are acknowledged as a safer creative outlet, keeping him away from further franchise controversies.

🌀 Lingering Impact on Star Wars

- The episode underscores the lasting damage The Last Jedi inflicted on the Star Wars franchise, with its divisive legacy still impacting discussions nearly a decade later.

- Johnson's refusal to show humility or introspection about the film is criticized, with the host suggesting his ego prevents him from acknowledging its flaws.

- The broader implications of Lucasfilm's handling of the situation are explored, including the studio's pattern of announcing projects that fail to materialize.