Rian Johnson Set to Write & Direct 'Star Wars: Episode VIII'

Rian Johnson has been tapped to write and direct the next film in the Star Wars film franchise – Episode VIII, according to Deadline.

The filmmaker will be taking over the reign from J.J. Abrams, who is helming Episode VII at the moment. While it was initially reported he will also write and direct Episode IX, he will only be writing the treatment for the film.

Rian is best known for writing and directing the critically acclaimed movie Looper starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis.

Disney is entrusting the mega franchise with a bunch of hot young filmmakers. They have also booked Chronicle‘s Josh Trank and Godzilla‘s Gareth Edwards to direct spinoff films.

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