Source: Official Star Wars Website | Posted By: Dan Geer
While the news broke two days ago over at The Wrap, it was officially announced late yesterday by Lucasfilm (via StarWars.com) that J.J. Abrams will indeed be directing Star Wars: Episode VII, the first Star Wars film under the Disney/Lucasfilm banner.
Lucasfilm also confirms speculation that writers Lawrence Kasdan (The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark) and Simon Kinberg (Sherlock Holmes) would be involved in the Sequel Trilogy, although they will act merely as consultants on Episode VII (I wouldn’t rule them out for VIII and IX, though).
In addition, the press release also answers the question of whether or not J.J. Abrams’ company Bad Robot would be involved, confirming the company will in fact produce the film along with Abrams’ longtime producing partner Bryan Burk and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy. Read on for statements from Kennedy, as well as George Lucas and even Abrams himself!
Kathleen Kennedy statement:
“It’s very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new Star Wars movie. 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 statement:
“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.”
J.J. Abrams statement:
“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. I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid.”
Head on over to StarWars.com to read the full press release, which also includes comments from Sound Designers Ben Burtt and Matthew Wood, as well as Visual Effects Supervisor Dennis Muren!
Star Wars: Episode VII, directed by J.J. Abrams and written by Michael Arndt, is slated to hit theaters in 2015.
