While The Mandalorian and Grogu may be struggling at the box office, Star Wars fans have a much more personal reason to celebrate later this year. George Lucas himself is stepping back into the spotlight with a brand-new project that's closer to his heart than any recent Disney release.
Star Wars in Motion, the first cinematic exhibit at the Lucasfilm Museum of Narrative Arts, has officially been confirmed to open its doors on September 22. The announcement comes just months after the museum first teased the exhibit on May the Fourth, and it promises to be a deep dive into the visual storytelling that defined the original saga.
What's Inside the Exhibit?
Unlike the recent streaming series or theatrical releases, Star Wars in Motion focuses exclusively on the first six episodes of the franchise—the ones Lucas himself wrote and directed. Visitors will get an up-close look at the designs of vehicles, props, and illustrations that brought the galaxy far, far away to life. It's a celebration of the practical artistry that made Star Wars a cultural phenomenon, from the sleek lines of the Millennium Falcon to the intricate details of Darth Vader's helmet.
The exhibit is part of a larger wave of openings at the museum, which will also feature displays on storytelling devices from across human history, including sculptures, paintings, photography, comics, and movies. But for Star Wars fans, this is the main event.
A Busy Year for the Franchise
2025 has already been a whirlwind for Star Wars fans. The Disney+ series Maul — Shadow Lord earned a near-perfect 99% on Rotten Tomatoes and was renewed for a second season before its first episode even aired. Star Sam Witwer has confirmed that work on Season 2 is already underway, with a shorter-than-usual gap between seasons expected. Meanwhile, The Mandalorian and Grogu marked the franchise's first big-screen release in seven years, though it's now projected to become the lowest-grossing Star Wars movie ever, even below Solo: A Star Wars Story.
Looking ahead, the next Star Wars film is Starfighter, written by Jonathan Tropper and directed by Shawn Levy, with Ryan Gosling in the lead role. Plot details remain under wraps. On the TV side, Ahsoka Season 2 has been pushed to 2027, while Maul — Shadow Lord Season 2 is expected sometime next year, likely after Ahsoka's sophomore run.
More Than Just a Museum Piece
For those who've been following the ups and downs of the franchise, Star Wars in Motion feels like a return to the source. It's a chance to see the original vision of George Lucas, unfiltered by corporate mandates or fan expectations. As the entertainment world continues to churn out sequels and spin-offs—like the recently announced Resident Evil Veronica remake or the Ridley Scott sci-fi film The Dog Stars—this exhibit stands as a reminder of the artistry that started it all.
Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer curious about the magic behind the movies, Star Wars in Motion promises to be an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for September 22—the Force will be with you, in more ways than one.
