Steven Soderbergh Reveals Disney Rejected Completed Script for ‘The Hunt for Ben Solo
In a shocking revelation, director Steven Soderbergh shared that Disney rejected a completed script for a Star Wars film titled The Hunt for Ben Solo. The unmade project, which was set to star Star Wars actor Adam Driver, would have followed the journey of Ben Solo after the events of The Rise of Skywalker (2019). This marks the first time Disney has ever turned down a finished Star Wars film script, according to Soderbergh himself.
Speaking about the project in an interview, Soderbergh discussed the fallout from the film’s rejection, calling it a pivotal moment for both him and Driver. The director, known for films like Ocean’s Eleven and Traffic, had collaborated closely with Driver on the script, which was penned by screenwriter Scott Z. Burns.
“I asked Kathy Kennedy if Lucasfilm had ever turned in a finished Star Wars movie script for greenlight, only to have it rejected. She said no, this was a first,” Soderbergh revealed, hinting at the unique nature of the situation.
The Lost Star Wars Movie: “The Hunt for Ben Solo”
The project was set to explore the aftermath of The Rise of Skywalker, offering fans a deeper look into Ben Solo’s journey post-redemption. In a twist of fate, the film would have focused on the character who was previously Kylo Ren, a once-villain turned hero. The film was reportedly well-received by the creative team behind it, including Lucasfilm, who understood the vision behind the story.
Adam Driver, who would have reprised his role as Ben Solo, spoke about the concept earlier this week, revealing that the film was originally pitched to Lucasfilm with a strong reception. According to Driver, “We presented the script to Lucasfilm. They loved the idea. They totally understood our angle and why we were doing it.”
However, when the project was taken to Disney’s top executives, including CEO Bob Iger and Chairman Alan Bergman, the response was much less favorable. They reportedly struggled with the idea of bringing Ben Solo back after his death in The Rise of Skywalker, ultimately deciding against moving forward with the film.
“It was called The Hunt for Ben Solo, and it was really cool,” Driver said. “But it is no more, so I can finally talk about it.”
A Bold New Vision That Never Was
The Star Wars franchise has seen its fair share of ups and downs, with the conclusion of the Skywalker saga in The Rise of Skywalker leaving many fans divided. Soderbergh’s proposed film, however, had a fresh take on the direction of the franchise, exploring redemption, legacy, and the lingering consequences of the events in the final trilogy.
Soderbergh, who had enjoyed creative freedom with the project, expressed regret over the cancellation but remained enthusiastic about the potential of the story. “I really enjoyed making the movie in my head,” he said, reflecting on what could have been. “I’m just sorry the fans won’t get to see it.”
Scott Z. Burns, the scriptwriter behind the project, had reportedly completed a full script before they presented it to Disney. Although fans may never see this version of Ben Solo’s journey, the project adds to the growing list of Star Wars projects that never came to fruition, despite promising beginnings.
What This Means for Star Wars and Disney’s Future
The rejection of The Hunt for Ben Solo has raised questions about the future direction of Star Wars and Disney’s approach to handling its vast franchise. For Soderbergh, the decision to turn down a completed script marks a rare moment in the Star Wars history, where a project was halted despite initial enthusiasm.
While Disney’s decision to reject the film will surely be disappointing for fans who hoped to see more of Ben Solo’s arc, the franchise continues to expand with new series and movies in development. With a growing list of upcoming Star Wars projects, including films from Taika Waititi and Patty Jenkins, it remains to be seen how this creative setback will influence future installments.
The Star Wars universe is vast, and while The Hunt for Ben Solo will never come to fruition, it is just one of many stories that could have expanded the galaxy far, far away.
