Renowned director Denis Villeneuve has opened up about his disinterest in helming a 'Star Wars' film, revealing that his love for the franchise began to fade over three decades ago. Speaking on *The Town* podcast, the filmmaker behind the critically acclaimed *Dune* explained how the series lost its magic for him following the release of *Return of the Jedi* in 1983.

Villeneuve, who was just ten years old when the original *Star Wars* captivated audiences in 1977, expressed his deep affection for the early films. “I was obsessed with it,” he recalled, emphasizing his anticipation for *The Empire Strikes Back*, which he claims he watched countless times. However, his enthusiasm took a hit with *Return of the Jedi*: “It all derailed. I was 15 and my best friend and I considered taking a cab to L.A. just to confront George Lucas because we were so disappointed!”

He articulated his frustration with the introduction of the Ewoks, mentioning how the film seemed to shift towards a more child-friendly comedy rather than the epic storylines that drew fans in originally. Villeneuve believes that the franchise has become too rigid, saying, “Star Wars crystallized into a mythology that felt dogmatic, almost like a recipe. There are no more surprises for me.” This stagnation is a significant factor in his disinterest in joining the franchise.

When asked about *Star Trek*, he candidly admitted, “I’m not a Trekkie,” further emphasizing his preference for making films with original stories rather than working within established franchises.

In addition, Villeneuve hinted at the possibility of a *Dune 3*, though he remained noncommittal, stating that his preference lies in creating singular, unique films rather than diving into another series reboot.

Regarding the future of cinema, Villeneuve expressed his concerns about streaming platforms, affirming his belief that the theatrical experience is irreplaceable. He stated, "The big screen is part of the language. We are not meant to be alone; we’re meant to share stories together." This strong stance on the communal aspect of cinema showcases his dedication to preserving the theater experience.

In a time where franchise films dominate, Denis Villeneuve stands out as a champion for originality, suggesting that perhaps there's still hope for innovative storytelling on the big screen. Fans and filmmakers alike will be watching closely to see where his creative path leads next!