Sean Levy taps Thomas Newman for Star Wars: Starfighter score

Director Sean Levy has revealed that the music for his Star Wars spin-off Starfighter will be crafted by Thomas Newman, a veteran composer with a long record in film and animation. Levy says he has admired Newman’s work for years and wants a grand, emotionally rich score that captures the saga’s spirit without reusing John Williams’ iconic themes.

What to expect from the score

Newman, a 15-time Oscar nominee, is renowned for lush orchestration in films such as The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, Scent of a Woman, as well as animated hits WALL-E and Finding Nemo. Levy explained that the score aims for a timeless, emotional arc in the classic style, while avoiding direct remixes of Williams’ material.

Collaboration and vision

The director said he personally contacted Newman, sending the screenplay and outlining his musical vision. Newman agreed to join the project, a development Levy described as incredibly inspiring.

About Starfighter

Star Wars: Starfighter is slated for U.S. release on May 28, 2027. The standalone story unfolds five years after Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Screenwriter Jonathan Tropper (Banshee) crafts the script, and the cast includes Ryan Gosling (La La Land), Matt Smith (House of the Dragon), Mia Goth (Suspiria), and Amy Adams (American Hustle, Enchanted) in key roles.

Expert commentary

The Newman-Levy collaboration signals a return to orchestral storytelling in Star Wars with a contemporary edge. A veteran film-music analyst adds that audiences can expect a score that deeply supports character moments and emotional highs.

Summary

Sean Levy has tapped Thomas Newman to compose the music for Starfighter, aiming for a grand, emotionally resonant score in the spirit of classic Star Wars. The film, written by Jonathan Tropper, stars a high-profile cast including Ryan Gosling, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, and Amy Adams, and arrives in U.S. theaters on May 28, 2027. The project blends familiar legacy with fresh storytelling, bridging generations of fans.

Key insight: A renowned composer teaming with a visionary director promises a score that honors Star Wars heritage while delivering new emotional depth.