Tony Gilroy Gets Candid on Intellectual Property - “I’ve fed my family through disrespect of IP”

There is an art to reimagining stories that have already thrived through countless retellings, infusing them with fresh life without losing their soul. Tony Gilroy, the mastermind behind hits like Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Andor, operates with this delicate dance in mind. In vast realms such as Star Wars, where every detail matters and fan devotion runs deep, the challenge is not mere repetition but rediscovery. Gilroy’s approach defies rigid rules, favoring creativity over reverence to breathe new meaning into well-worn narratives.
While some cling to storytelling’s sacred texts, Gilroy wields a scalpel, fueling his creative fire through a bold disregard for intellectual property.
Tony Gilroy reveals why bending the rules of storytelling fuels his creative success
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On the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Tony Gilroy offered an honest admission about his relationship with intellectual property: “I've fed my family through disrespect of IP.” His philosophy embraces freedom over fidelity, transforming stories as needed rather than slavishly following source material. He cites Dolores Claiborne as “extremely different except the character that Kathy Bates plays… is identical to the book,” balancing change with respect. Regarding the Bourne franchise, he notes the books were out of print and sees Rogue as a story needing revival, showing his focus on reinventing rather than simply preserving stories.
Tony Gilroy likens his work to that of a cardiothoracic surgeon, reviving narratives that might otherwise be dead or irrelevant. By detaching emotionally from original works, he gains creative license to reshape tales for modern audiences and mediums. His method reflects a broader industry trend where intellectual property is not just protected, but actively resurrected and adapted to stay vibrant. This approach proves that stories can evolve beyond their first telling while honoring their core, offering fresh excitement without erasing the past.
While Tony Gilroy breathes new life into beloved sagas, he is also tuning into a different rhythm, composing a fresh story where music, not lasers, takes center stage.
Tony Gilroy’s bold new project spotlights the untold story of film scoring
Stepping away from a galaxy far, far away, Tony Gilroy, who has clearly stated that Star Wars: Andor projects are behind him, is now setting his sights on exciting new creative ventures. His upcoming drama, Behemoth!, stars Oscar Isaac as a cellist navigating the competitive world of film scoring in Los Angeles. Writing and directing, Gilroy explores the unique challenges musicians face in the industry, a niche rarely spotlighted on screen. Though currently seeking financing, this project promises an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at artistry beyond the blockbuster spectacle.
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Lucasfilm is reportedly developing a Star Wars horror project, a genre twist Tony Gilroy had previously suggested. While details remain under wraps and Gilroy is not directly involved, the concept signals exciting expansion within the Star Wars universe, blending fear and fantasy. This move could open new storytelling frontiers for the beloved saga, demonstrating how even the most iconic intellectual properties continue to evolve and surprise fans in unexpected ways.
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What are your thoughts on Tony Gilroy’s approach to intellectual property? Let us know in the comments below.
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Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui
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