Major changes are coming to Lucasfilm Animation. Justin Ridge, one of the episodic directors for Star Wars Rebels, has become the series’ new supervising director. Previously, Dave Filoni held that position. Filoni remains an executive producer for Rebels, so he will still be actively involved in the show’s production. At the same time, Filoni is assuming a larger role in developing Star Wars animation.
These staffing changes serve as well-earned promotions for both Ridge and Filoni. How will they affect Rebels and the wider Star Wars Saga? Let’s take a look at the impact that Filoni’s new role could have on Star Wars television.
From Director to Director
Dave Filoni has been an integral part of bringing Star Wars to television screens. As the supervising director for Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Filoni worked closely with George Lucas, the series’ executive producer. Before selling Lucasfilm to Disney, Lucas mentored Filoni in his approach to cinematography and storytelling. Since then, Filoni has channeled much of Lucas’s creative vision into Star Wars Rebels.
In addition, Justin Ridge is no stranger to Star Wars. He directed several pivotal episodes of The Clone Wars, including fan favorites “Rookies” and “Innocents of Ryloth.” He also directed “Rebel Resolve,” the penultimate episode of Rebels season one. Furthermore, with Ridge taking over most of Filoni’s Rebels directorial duties, Filoni can concentrate more on developing Lucasfilm’s future animated projects.
Always in Motion is the Future
This is a critical time for Star Wars. Besides its never-ending slate of films, Lucasfilm is discussing a possible TV series with ABC. Moreover, Disney–ABC Television Group’s Ben Sherwood recently hinted about the future of Star Wars TV:
“We are deep into a very productive relationship with Lucasfilm making [Disney XD’s] Star Wars Rebels. And we are in ongoing conversations with them on what is the next Star Wars animated show.”
This doesn’t exactly confirm that Lucasfilm is creating another animated series. Nonetheless, the fact of the matter is that Star Wars Rebels won’t last forever. Even after Rebels ends, Lucasfilm will continue to use animation as its primary medium for television.
In his new position, Dave Filoni will continue to have a major role in the future of Lucasfilm Animation. It will also be interesting to see how Justin Ridge will shape the new season of Rebels. As Master Yoda often says, the future is always in motion — and that certainly pertains to Star Wars TV.