How to Fix Star Wars: 10 Bold Ideas That Could Restore the Galaxy
The Star Wars franchise has been a cultural juggernaut for decades, but even the most devoted fans can admit that the recent direction of the series has left many longing for something more. With too many projects spread across different mediums and a lack of clear vision, the franchise feels like it’s lost the magic that once made it so special. But there’s still hope. Here are 10 ways to fix Star Wars and reignite the excitement that once had fans lining up for midnight premieres.
10. Let Star Wars Movies Feel Like Events Again
The magic of Star Wars used to come from the anticipation. Films felt like once-in-a-generation events. But with overlapping shows, spin-offs, and rushed announcements, the excitement has dulled. Give fans time to build anticipation again. Stop announcing projects without finished scripts and trailers. Let each film breathe and have its own moment. Like any good story, pacing matters.
9. Expand the Star Wars Genres
Star Wars can be more than space opera. The galaxy is vast enough to include horror, romance, espionage, fantasy, or even comedy. Shows like Andor and Rogue One have already shown a taste of genre experimentation. Embracing a broader range of storytelling styles can attract new audiences and keep the franchise fresh.
8. Allow the Franchise to Go Dark When Needed
Star Wars has grown with its audience. The original trilogy’s fans are now adults, and it’s time for the franchise to reflect that maturity. A more adult tone—through PG-13 or even R-rated content—could allow for deeper themes, more emotional weight, and higher stakes. Think about what Logan did for the X-Men series. Star Wars could do the same.
7. Dive Deeper into the Force
The Force has always been central to Star Wars, but in recent years it has felt vague or underexplored. Reclaim its mystical allure. Explore its origins, philosophies, and spiritual complexities. The animated Clone Wars series did a great job tapping into this with the father, daughter, and son from Mortis. Bring back that kind of mythos-building to live-action.
6. Introduce a Rival to the Force
Imagine if the Force wasn’t the only power in the galaxy. Introducing a new concept—something just as powerful but fundamentally different—would challenge what we think we know. This could shift the balance of the universe and give characters a fresh conflict. Think of it as introducing spiritual competition, with its own philosophy and followers.
5. Highlight Alien Cultures Who Use the Force Differently
The Jedi and Sith aren’t the only beings connected to the Force. Why not explore how other cultures and species interpret and use it? Different understandings of the Force could challenge what audiences have taken for granted and breathe new life into the lore.
4. Evolve the Fighting Styles with Force Ninjas
Lightsaber duels are iconic, but it’s time to evolve them. Introduce Force-sensitive warriors who blend martial arts with stealth, agility, and cultural influences. Characters like Donnie Yen’s Chirrut Îmwe gave a glimpse of what this could be. Now imagine a whole faction of Force ninjas bringing acrobatic, high-stakes action to the screen.
3. Move the Franchise Into the Future
Star Wars has been stuck near the Skywalker timeline for too long. Push the story forward by hundreds or thousands of years. Let go of the retro-futuristic tech and embrace bold new designs. We need to see what the future of this galaxy looks like, not a constant rehash of the past.
2. Create a Villain Worth Fearing
Every great saga needs a great villain. Darth Vader wasn’t just powerful—he was a symbol of fear, tragedy, and inner conflict. The next Star Wars villain needs to be compelling, layered, and a true threat to the heroes. Give us someone who demands sacrifice, forces growth, and casts a long shadow over the galaxy.
1. Find a New Hero or Family to Follow
Image via Disney+.
It’s time to move beyond the Skywalkers. The galaxy is bigger than one family. A fresh hero or lineage would open the door for new stories, new growth, and a chance to unite the fanbase around something new. Mark Hamill himself put it best:
“But my deal is, I had my time. I’m appreciative of that, but I really think they should focus on the future and all the new characters.”
And with his signature wit, he added:
“And by the way, when I disappeared in The Last Jedi, I left my robes behind. And there’s no way I’m gonna appear as a naked Force ghost.”
Hamill’s sentiment reflects what many fans feel—it’s time for a clean slate. Building a new family or hero from the ground up could provide the emotional depth and storytelling longevity that Star Wars needs right now. Think of something akin to the Starks in Game of Thrones—a complex family with internal and external conflict whose story can evolve over time.
Honorable Mention: Bring Back Mace Windu
Samuel L. Jackson has long expressed his interest in returning. And since Mace Windu’s death was never confirmed on screen, reviving him could serve as a powerful bridge between generations.
These 10 changes don’t abandon Star Wars’ roots—they honor and evolve them. The goal is not to erase the past but to expand the possibilities. We can still keep the Force, the lore, and the galaxy—but explore it with fresh eyes, new voices, and bold imagination.
Let’s stop gatekeeping and start building. Whether you’re a fan from the beginning or a newcomer like me who found love through animation, we all deserve a Star Wars universe that feels limitless again.
So what do you think? Which of these ideas would fix Star Wars for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s continue the legacy together.
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