Did you notice a disturbance in The Force today? Nothing to worry about – it was merely millions of Star Wars fans cheering loudly after hearing the news that the next installment in the film franchise finally has a release date – December 18, 2015.
The date of the film’s release will mark the first time a Star Wars movie has not opened in May. During a company earnings call this afternoon Robert Iger, CEO and Chairman of The Walt Disney Company said the release date is the same date that Avatar opened in 2009.
Alan Horn, Disney’s studio chief said in a statement, “We’re very excited to share the official 2015 release date for Star Wars: Episode VII, where it will not only anchor the popular holiday filmgoing season but also ensure our extraordinary filmmaking team has the time needed to deliver a sensational picture.”
The script for Star Wars: Episode VII will be written by J.J. Abrams and Lawrence Kasden (co-writer for The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Raiders of the Lost Ark). The duo takes over for Michael Arndt (Little Miss Sunshine). Abrams is also set to direct the film.
Filming on the film will begin in spring 2014 at Pinewood Studios in London.
