John Boyega: Why Star Wars Could Learn a Lesson From Star Trek’s Talky Wisdom

John Boyega has always been open about being a Star Wars loyalist through and through. Best known for his portrayal of Finn in the sequel trilogy, the actor made it clear at Dragon Con that his allegiance lies firmly in the galaxy far, far away – not with the crew of the USS Enterprise. Still, in an honest twist of reflection, Boyega admitted that the one thing he doesn’t like about Star Trek might actually be the one thing Star Wars needs more of: time to talk.

Speaking to fans, Boyega confessed he’s just never connected with Star Trek’s style. “If you’ve met me at the booths, you know I’m not a Trekkie,” he said. “They like to talk too much. Star Wars is about action – you’ve got to talk while the war’s happening.” Yet, he added with surprising humility, maybe that balance between blasters and dialogue is precisely what the Force-driven saga could borrow. “In Star Trek, they actually give the characters time to talk. I think Star Wars could use some of that.”

Boyega’s comments sparked plenty of debate among fans, especially those who see Star Trek’s dialogue-heavy approach as a cornerstone of thoughtful science fiction. While Star Wars often trades in mythic simplicity and fast-paced conflict, Trek thrives on philosophy, diplomacy, and the exploration of why things happen – not just what. Boyega’s nod to that difference might sound ironic coming from someone who once led stormtroopers into battle, but it highlights an important truth: sometimes the galaxy’s most powerful weapon isn’t a lightsaber, but a good conversation.

Despite his playful jab at the Trekkies, Boyega is clearly still thinking deeply about storytelling in science fiction. During appearances at several conventions this year – including Florida Supercon and Fan Expo Boston – he opened up about how he would have handled the sequel trilogy differently if given creative control. “Fans would’ve had a completely different thing,” he said, implying that Disney’s version lacked a cohesive vision. In Boyega’s imagined version, Han Solo and Luke Skywalker’s arcs wouldn’t have ended so abruptly, and Finn’s story would’ve had more emotional depth, evolving beyond the loyal friend role into something more tragic and complex.

Boyega also revealed that he always suspected Finn was meant to be Force-sensitive, a detail hinted at in The Force Awakens but never fully explored. He believed that relationship between Finn and Rey (played by Daisy Ridley) could’ve evolved into something more dramatic – perhaps even rivaling Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader’s fateful dynamic. “There was room for a clash of ideals there,” Boyega mused. “Something deeper than friendship.”

Fans have long echoed his frustration. Many feel that Finn – a former stormtrooper who defected from the First Order – had one of the most intriguing setups in the new trilogy but was reduced to comic relief as the films progressed. Boyega’s continued willingness to speak candidly about that experience has only earned him more respect, even among critics. Whether or not he returns to Star Wars remains uncertain, but as Daisy Ridley’s Rey prepares to wield the Force once more in her upcoming film, many hope Finn might someday ignite his lightsaber again, this time with the story arc he deserved.

For now, Boyega is content embracing his “lightsaber guy” identity – proud, self-aware, and unafraid to critique the galaxy that made him famous. Maybe he’ll never trade hyperspace for warp speed, but even a loyal Jedi can admit that sometimes, slowing down to talk might be the real key to balance in the Force.