STAR WARS EPISODE VII Begins Filming In May, Set 30 Years After ROTJ


The newest addition to the Star Wars saga is about to take its next step forward. It was announced by Disney and Lucasfilm that principal photography on Star Wars Episode VII will start in May 2014 at London’s Pinewood Studios. This is the first Star Wars film to begin production in May, with the other films either beginning in January, March or June.

The press release also revealed that the film would take place 30 years after Return of the Jedi, and will star “a trio of new young leads along with some very familiar faces.” It did not confirm details on the plot or the authenticity of casting rumors involving Adam Driver, Lupita Nyong’o or the five actors up for the male lead.

star wars episode 7 poster

I think the “familiar faces” part of the press release is obvious. Outside of an official statement, it’s certain that Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher will be reprising their iconic roles for the sequel. Fisher herself revealed that she’d be in London for six months shooting Episode VII. As for the three new leads, that’s hard to say. With all these casting rumors that have circled around the Internet for months, it’s hard to tell who’s really going to be involved. However, if the movies take inspiration from the Expanded Universe, it’s possible that these young leads will be Jacen Solo, Jaina Solo and Ben Skywalker. Although considering the age of the Original Trilogy stars, these young’uns might be changed from their children to grandchildren.

Star-Wars-Expanded-Universe

With the announcement of when filming will start, expect official casting announcements to start making the circuit. I’m sure I’m not alone in wanting these as soon as possible. Aside from Batman vs. Superman, I can’t remember the last time a movie was surrounded with so much secrecy. It’s unnatural for a film’s production! We have to know details so that we can start critiquing and ridiculing them.

For the full press release, click the link below.

SOURCE: StarWars.com