Did Matthew Vaughn drop out of X-Men: Days of Future Past so that he could direct Star Wars: Episode VII?

As soon as the announcement was made that STAR WARS: EPISODE VII was coming in 2015, many of us were concerned that it was an unrealistic release date. But, with George Lucas stating that the script treatments were outlined and ready to go, it seemed that the films were further along than anticipated. So, the rumor mills have begun churning with possible names for screenwriters and directors who could make STAR WARS: EPISODE VII the chapter we have all been waiting for.

Combine that status with the rumor posted by Collider that director Matthew Vaughn may be in negotiations with Lucasfilm (or is it Disney-LucasFilm?) to direct STAR WARS: EPISODE VII and you have yourself some meaty gossip.

It all seems to fit into place: STAR WARS is being taken away from 20th Century Fox which is where the X-MEN franchise is produced. X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST is lining up to be one hell of a project, but if the chance to direct STAR WARS comes your way, you choose STAR WARS. Vaughn knows comic book adaptations pretty well and that is a great background for making a STAR WARS movie. Plus, Vaughn’s alternate project to X-MEN, THE SECRET SERVICE, just nabbed Mark Hamill. Could just be a coincidence or it could be the perfect warm-up to making EPISODE VII.

Collider also theorizes that Vaughn could be brought in for more than one film. I would like to see three different directors bring their own flair to each chapter, but I would not be opposed to bringing Vaughn back if the movie is successful. Vaughn is adept at handling ensemble casts, as evidenced by X-MEN: FIRST CLASS, so he should be a natural for EPISODE VII.

Whether this turns out to be true or just a rumor, it is definitely not too early to begin these discussions. To make a 2015 release for a project of this magnitude, they would need the screenplay finished by mid-2013 at the latest with an eye to complete casting by the end of 2013. Filming would have to begin in early 2014 so sufficient post-production can be done to the movie. All of this assumes a summer 2015 release, which would conflict with THE AVENGERS sequel, so that would buy more time. Either way, they need to get the key members in place as soon as possible.

Other rumored names floating around the internet include Darren Aronofsky, Steven Spielberg, Joss Whedon, Neill Blomkamp, Alfonso Cuaron, Drew Goddard, David Fincher, and Joseph Kosinski.

What do you think about Matthew Vaughn helming STAR WARS: EPISODE VII?