Who's out and who's still in the running to direct Star Wars VII
It was only minutes after Disney announced it would be making new Star Wars movies that fans went nuts wondering who George Lucas would tap to direct the next generation of the classic sci-fi franchise. Several weeks later, the rumor mill hasn't slowed down.
But all that churning has helped us narrow down the field a bit, as several rumored directors have been coy about the prospect or outright denied their involvement.
Producer Frank Marshall recently confirmed that the folks at Lucasfilm have whittled the candidates down to a "couple" on a short list, and odds are that at least some of those names are on our list below to potentially direct Michael Arndt's (The Hunger Games: Catching Fire) script for Star Wars VII.
So as we await official word from Lucasfilm, check out the list of potential candidates below and let us know who you're pulling for.
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Ben Affleck: Out.â¨Affleck has made a name for himself as a stud director in recent years, but has made it clear heâs not interested in tackling this one.
Brenda Chapman: Possible.
Chapman co-directed Pixarâs hit Brave and has responded with vague platitudes and a coy attitude when asked about the project. Definitely a possibility.
Jon Favreau: InterestedWhen asked about the prospects of directing Star Wars VII Favreau (Iron Man) seemed interested. But, at the moment, the interest seems to be one-sided.
Joe Johnston: Possible.
Johnston has worked with Lucas in the past, and has proven his mettle as a hit maker with recent Disney/Marvel flick Captain America. Definitely a possibility.
Matthew Vaughn: Possible.
The rumor mill was hot for Vaughn (X-Men: First Class) in the early-goings when he dropped out of the First Class sequel. But speculation has cooled as heâs since lined up other projects in the short-term. But, youâd have to think heâd consider it if offered.
Steven Spielberg: Out.
It was fun to think that Spielberg might team back up with Lucas for this new trilogy, but Spielberg already has a ton of projects in the pike and has publicly stated he wonât be directing this one.
Quentin Tarantino: Out.
Always outspoken, Tarantino quickly shot down any indication that heâd be interested in directing, saying he âcould so care lessâ about whatever Disney does with the property.
Brad Bird: Out.
Bird had a hit on his hands with Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, and that sweeping action style would likely mesh well with Star Wars. But, Bird has publicly denied rumors that he is in talks with Lucasfilm for this one.
Colin Trevorrow: Possible
Trevorrowâs (Safety Not Guaranteed) name has been linked to the latest Star Wars quite a bit, though he has since taken to Twitter to say itâs unlikely heâll direct. Regardless, some sources say heâs still in the mix.
Guillermo del Toro: Interested
Del Toro says he hasnât been approached about the project, but put out positive vibes that indicate he might be interested. Long shot? Yeah.
Zack Snyder: Out.
Snyder's name was rumored early, but he's since come up and said he's not really interested in the gig.
J.J. Abrams: OutAbrams' name comes up for most big sci-fi projects, especially after his Trek reboot, but he's publicly said he's not interested.
