Why the directors were fired from Han Solo movie

YESTERDAY the exit of both Han Solo directors midway through filming was announced as a mutual parting. Here’s what really happened.

The upcoming Han Solo spin-off has hit trouble.

YESTERDAY’S announcement that the directors of the upcoming Han Solo spin-off film were leaving the project midway through filming made vague reference to ‘creative differences’.

It seems that’s an understatement.

The Hollywood Reporter now says that Phil Lord and Christopher Miller’s exit from the film was not a mutual decision — the directing pair were in fact let go by Lucasfilm.

The problem came from a “style and vision” clash between the pair, best known for comedies like 21 Jump St and The Lego Movie, and screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan, who wrote classics like Empire Strikes Back and Raiders of the Lost Ark.

The pair’s comedy leanings drove a wedge between them and Kasdan.

Filmmakers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller have been let go from the upcoming Han Solo prequel. Picture: AFP

“People need to understand that Han Solo is not a comedic personality. He’s sarcastic and selfish,” a source told The Hollywood Reporter.

“Phil Lord and Chris Miller come from a strong comedy background and are used to finding the comedy and tone of a scene on the set. Their films have never had perfect scripts, instead requiring quite a bit of improvisation and room for the actors to play,” reports Slash Film.

Filming began in February and tensions were almost immediate, but it’s understood the directors thought any differences in opinion about the style and tone of the film could be worked out.

As tensions mounted around the contrasting working styles, Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy sided with lifelong colleague Kasdan and decided it was the two directors who would have to go.

The news of the pair’s sacking came yesterday in a joint statement posted on the official Star Wars website.

“Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are talented filmmakers who have assembled an incredible cast and crew, but it’s become clear that we had different creative visions on this film, and we’ve decided to part ways. A new director will be announced soon,” Kennedy said.

The as-yet-untitled film will tell the story of a young Han Solo.

“Unfortunately, our vision and process weren’t aligned with our partners on this project. We normally aren’t fans of the phrase ‘creative differences’ but for once this cliche is true. We are really proud of the amazing and world-class work of our cast and crew,” stated Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.

Directors including Ron Howard (Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind) and Joe Johnston (Jumanji) have been touted to step in as replacement director. It’s understood production on Han Solo — which is due for release in 2018 — is now on a hiatus which will extend as the new director examines what footage has already been shot.

Originally published as Why the directors were fired from Han Solo movie