Until it’s actually, finally, properly shooting (and, honestly, probably even then), the word on J.J. Abrams’ **Star Wars: Episode VII **will be a confusing melange of brief official announcements, whispered rumours, half-truths and the sort of chatter that even the Mos Eisley faithful would scorn. Still, the flood of speculation shows no sign of letting up.
The famously reticent Abrams sat down briefly with Entertainment Weekly and actually said something about his plans for the film. Don’t go getting too excited, though: he was vague. Surprise!
Asked which of the original films exemplifies what he’s aiming for in terms of the new one, Abrams dodged. “It’s impossible for me to say because it’s going to be an evolving thing. I would say we are working really hard to make a movie that feels as emotional and authentic and exciting as possible. Whatever your favourite Star Wars movie is and how to compare it is really sort of subjective.”
He did, at least, have a little more to say when questioned about how he wants the film to feel to fans: “I remember reading a thing somewhere, someone wrote about just wanting the new film to feel real; to feel authentic. I remember I felt that way when I was 11 years old when I saw the first one. As much of a fairy tale as it was, it felt real. And to me, that is exactly right.”
Talking of authenticity, he’s been pushing to shoot more real sets and locations than the prequel films for a while now. Rumour hounds Latino Review have heard that some shooting will take place in New Mexico, specifically Las Cruces, the City Of Crosses. As with all things Wars rumour-related, take it with a big ol’ helping of salt.
Moving to casting chat – and staying firmly in rumour space – the site also dug up word that David Oyelowo and Michael B. Jordan had both has meetings about possible roles. Also reprotedly stopping by J.J.’s office? Saoirse Ronan. Whether any of them end up in the film itself is something only truly known by Abrams and his team for now.
Finally, the LR gang is looking to debunk a debunking, re-affirming their belief that Benedict Cumberbatch will indeed show up in some capacity and possibly in more than one film. Cumberbabes, you may begin your offerings to the Movie Gods to make it happen…