Star Wars Episode VII‘s script apparently is still being heavily doctored but the film will start shooting in 2014. Casting news thus far has been slim; but actor Ian McDiarmid has been confirmed recast as Senator Palpatine despite that characters untimely demise. Palapatine did have an apprentice however, which many think will serve as one of the main villains in the film. The 7th installment will focus on the offspring of Han Solo and Princess Leia.
We are in fact working on a few stand-alone films,” says Disney CEO Bob Iger. “(Lawrence) Kasdan and Simon Kinberg are both working on films derived from great Star Warscharacters that are not part of the overall saga. So we plan to make Star Wars VII, VIII and IX over roughly a six-year period of time starting in 2015. But there are going to be a few other films released in that period of time too.
Ya go ahead and sign me up for all of that. Thanks.
It’s very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new Star Wars movie,” said Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy in a press release Jan. 25. “J.J. is the perfect director to helm this. Beyond having such great instincts as a filmmaker, he has an intuitive understanding of this franchise. He understands the essence of the Star Wars experience, and will bring that talent to create an unforgettable motion picture.”
Star Wars creator George Lucas also gave his blessing to the selection of Abrams. “I’ve consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller,” said Lucas. “He’s an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn’t be in better hands.