Disney finally picked the guy to direct the sans-George Lucas episode of Star Wars. JJ Abrams, known for his stint in the Mission Impossible series and his latest, Star Trek Into Darkness, may be the perfect choice. Besides, it might bring “balance to The Force”, that timeless war between Trek and Star Wars fans!
In a press release, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy said:
J.J. Abrams will direct Star Wars: Episode VII, the first of a new series of Star Wars films to come from Lucasfilm under the leadership of Kathleen Kennedy. Abrams will be directing and Academy Award-winning writer Michael Arndt will write the screenplay.
“It’s very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new Star Wars movie,” said Kennedy. “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.”
George Lucas went on to say “I’ve consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller. He’s an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn’t be in better hands.”
“To be a part of the next chapter of the Star Wars saga, to collaborate with Kathy Kennedy and this remarkable group of people, is an absolute honor,” J.J. Abrams said. “I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid.”
There’s still no word on the official storyline of Episode 7. There are rumors of course that old actors like Harrisson Ford might be making a comeback.
That said, all geeks (like me) are now doing countdowns to the film’s pegged release on 2015.
May the Force be with you, JJ!
[ source ]
Photo credits Filmofilia