Mia Goth, the actress celebrated for her compelling performances in horror films such as "Pearl" and "X," is set to star as the villain in the upcoming "Star Wars: Starfighter." This casting marks a significant moment for the franchise, as Goth will be the first female main villain in a "Star Wars" movie, building on the groundwork laid by Gwendoline Christie's Captain Phasma in the sequel trilogy.

"Star Wars: Starfighter," directed by Shawn Levy ("Deadpool & Wolverine"), is slated to be a standalone film set five years after the events of "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker." Levy has emphasized that the film is "a new adventure" with "new characters," existing in a time period not yet thoroughly explored in previous "Star Wars" movies. The film is scheduled for release on May 28, 2027, and filming is expected to begin in England this fall.

Goth joins Ryan Gosling, who will portray a character tasked with protecting his young nephew from "evil pursuers," one of whom will be played by Goth. Details about Goth's character remain scarce, but sources suggest she will lead the group of antagonists hunting Gosling's character and his nephew. This casting choice reflects a trend of "Star Wars" securing high-profile actors for key roles. Reportedly, Mikey Madison was initially offered the villainous role but declined due to financial disagreements.

Mia Goth's background in horror and thriller films has equipped her with the ability to portray intense and unsettling characters, making her a fitting choice for a "Star Wars" villain. Her previous roles in "High Life," "Suspiria," "Infinity Pool," and the "X" trilogy have showcased her range and ability to captivate audiences with her performances. Before "Star Wars: Starfighter," Goth will appear in Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" as Elizabeth Lavenza and is currently filming for Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey."

"Star Wars: Starfighter" is generating considerable buzz, promising a fresh narrative separate from the Skywalker saga. The film shares its name with a series of video games from the early 2000s, though it is unlikely the film will directly adapt those storylines. The movie is one of several "Star Wars" projects in development, including "The Mandalorian & Grogu," set to release in May 2026, signaling a renewed focus on theatrical releases for the franchise.