Star Wars Episode VII is due to start filming next year and set for release in 2015. Lucasfilm which is now owned by Disney recently met with Chancellor George Osborne in London for planning and probable discussion of a tax break. The Chancellor said that this choice made by Lucasfilm confirms that the UK is an attractive prospect to film studios because of the incentives that the country can offer them. Hundreds of films have already benefited from tax relief which requires that a quarter of the total production expenditure is in the United Kingdom.
The very successful science fiction series has previously conducted filming at Elstree, Leavesden and Shepperton, which are studios located in Britain. Pinewood and Ealing were used in the movie series as well. There has been no confirmation where exactly Star Wars Episode VII will be filmed but fans speculate that one of the sites would be Pinewood Studios.
Han Solo fan
Chancellor Osborne said in a speech at a G7 meeting that he is “absolutely delighted” about the return of the very successful science fiction series to the UK. He considers the move to be a “vote of confidence” to the creative industries of his country. The Chancellor added that what is perhaps the most famous movie franchise ever would bring jobs for directors, actors and other people who work to put together “a big movie like that.” He also revealed that his favorite character from the films is Han Solo.
Revisiting the origins of Star Wars
Kathleen Kennedy, the President of Lucasfilm said that the company has devoted its time and attention to revisiting the origins of the film franchise as they look for inspiration for the next installment. Kennedy said that she is thrilled to return to Britain for film production and to utilize the “incredible talent” that the country can offer. Lucasfilm confirmed that representatives have met with Chancellor Osborne for discussions on an agreement on producing Star Wars in Britain.
All six Star Wars films are worldwide box office hits. The estimated total gross earnings of the Star Wars franchise are more than $4.4 billion worldwide.
Going back home
Actor Warwick Davis of the Pirate of the Caribbean franchise played the role of an Ewok in Star Wars Episode III: Return of the Jedi (1983). He said that the announcement is great for British actors and the film industry now that Star Wars is coming back to its roots and that it is nice that Star Wars is coming back to where “it was kind of born.” Star Wars Episode II: Empire Strikes Back (1977) and Star Wars Episode III: Return of the Jedi (1983) were filmed in the United Kingdom and other locations spread out across the world.
Three more films
Upon its acquisition of Lucasfilm, Ltd. in October 2012, Disney has confirmed that three new Star Wars films would be made under the direction of JJAbrams. Michael Arndt (“Little Miss Sunshine”) will write the script. Star Wars creator George Lucas will serve as creative consultant.
Photo Credit: Star Wars Episide VII
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