Director Shawn Levy has confirmed that legendary composer Thomas Newman will score the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter film, marking the composer’s first entry into the iconic franchise. Newman, a 15-time Oscar nominee, is set to bring his signature emotional style to the standalone installment, which will premiere in theaters on May 28, 2027 in the United States.
Levy revealed the news during an appearance on the On Film… with Kevin McCarthy podcast, sharing his excitement about finally securing one of his musical heroes. Although he was initially unsure if the announcement had been made public, he enthusiastically confirmed Newman’s involvement.
“I think we’re breaking news here,” Levy said. “If you ask me to name my favorite scores, five of the top 10 are Tom Newman: Shawshank, Road to Perdition, Nemo, American Beauty. The guy is a maestro.”
Why Thomas Newman Was Levy’s First Choice
Levy explained that he was searching for a composer capable of delivering a classic, emotionally rich score that would honor the legacy of Star Wars without relying heavily on thematic remixes of John Williams’ legendary music.
“This movie wants to be classically inspired,” Levy said. “It may be inspired by some of that, but I knew that I needed a big-hearted movie score from a composer who, like John Williams, doesn’t shy away from themes.”
Levy reached out directly to Newman, asking whether he would consider joining the project. After reviewing the script and discussing the creative direction, Newman agreed.
“And he said yes. And I’m so stoked,” Levy shared. “I’m so excited about it.”
About ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’
A standalone entry that exists outside the Skywalker saga, Starfighter takes place five years after the events of Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019). The film expands the universe with an original storyline and new characters rather than revisiting the Skywalker family.
The screenplay comes from Jonathan Tropper, and the film features a star-studded cast led by Ryan Gosling, along with Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, Flynn Gray, and Amy Adams.
Production recently showcased its first behind-the-scenes images from a Mediterranean Sea set, giving fans a glimpse at what appears to be a visually ambitious chapter in the franchise. With Levy at the helm and Newman composing, industry watchers say the film is positioned for a bold, emotional cinematic experience.
Honoring the Franchise Legacy
Although Newman will not directly reuse Williams’ iconic themes, Levy emphasized that the score will remain deeply connected to the heart and scale that define Star Wars.
John Williams scored the original 1977 film, and his music remains synonymous with the franchise’s identity. Newman’s involvement marks a new era, blending fresh musical direction with respect for the franchise’s emotional heritage.
Fans and critics largely welcomed the announcement, noting that Newman’s sweeping orchestral talent aligns naturally with epic science-fiction storytelling.
