Ryan Gosling’s Star Wars: Starfighter is shaping up to be one of the biggest Star Wars movies ever made, at least when it comes to the price tag. According to a new report from Forbes, the film has racked up $226.5 million in costs so far, putting it ahead of what Star Wars: The Force Awakens had spent at the same point in production.
Breaking Down the Starfighter Budget
Forbes’ Caroline Reid uncovered the numbers in production tax filings, which cover costs through early 2026. Here is how it adds up:
- Total costs so far: $226.5 million
- UK tax credit: $51.5 million
- Net cost so far: About $175 million
Keep in mind that this is not the final number. The total does not include the visual effects and post production work still to come, or the cost of marketing and distributing the film worldwide.
How It Compares to Other Star Wars Movies
According to the report, Starfighter was spending more than The Force Awakens at the same stage of production. It is on par with The Last Jedi and still below The Rise of Skywalker, which remains the most expensive film in the franchise.
That is a big bet for Lucasfilm, especially after The Mandalorian and Grogu struggled at the box office earlier this year.
What We Know About Star Wars: Starfighter
- Release date: May 28, 2027
- Director: Shawn Levy (Deadpool & Wolverine, Stranger Things)
- Star: Ryan Gosling as Kade Auberon, a pilot
- Cast also includes: Flynn Gray, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Amy Adams, Aaron Pierre and more
- Cinematographer: Claudio Miranda (Top Gun: Maverick)
- Filming: Pinewood Studios in the UK, with location shooting in Sardinia. Filming wrapped in December 2025.
The story is set five years after The Rise of Skywalker, a period never before explored on screen, and it is expected to tell a new story away from the Skywalker saga.
A Big Year for Star Wars
Starfighter arrives on the 50th anniversary weekend of the original Star Wars, and it will also be released in IMAX 70mm. It is part of a packed year that also includes the original film returning to theaters and Star Wars Celebration in Los Angeles. See everything planned in our guide to every Star Wars 50th anniversary celebration.
Do you think Star Wars: Starfighter will be worth the big budget? Let us know in the comments!
Mouse Fan Travel® an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, has been planning and creating magical Disney vacations since 2005. Their mission is to provide premium service and expert advice to help you get the most for your vacation time and dollar. Their Disney Travel Agents operate with the highest degree of integrity and will handle your family vacation, reunion, honeymoon, corporate incentive trip or getaway, as if it were their own. They pride themselves on expertly representing and advocating for you – their client.
The next time you and your family are planning a Disney vacation, visit Mouse Fan Travel for your no obligation quote or to answer any Disney vacation questions you may have. Are you looking for a beach vacation, tour or cruise to destinations across the globe? Visit MEI-Travel for exceptional expertise with ZERO agency fees.