"Star Wars: Episode VIII," which will be directed by Rian Johnson, has been set out and the film's shooting location will be in Ireland.
According to EW, J.J. Abrams and company are returning to the Irish island of Skellig Michael later this month for some additional photography. Ireland's Arts Minister Heather Humphries confirmed the news amidst concerns about the island's shooting capabilities.
Lucasfilm production will be monitored by an ecologist and observers from the National Monuments Service as well as the National Parks and Wildlife Service to ensure the protection of archeological sites and wildlife habitats.
Den of Geek reportedly confirmed that Benicio del Toro, who played The Collector in "Guardians of the Galaxy", will play the villain in "Star Wars: Episode VIII." He was rumored to be part of the film in late July, but there was never any confirmation about whether he is, in fact, involved.
Based on his interview with Spanish news site, RAC1, del Toro said that, "Star Wars is coming up, we will see how that turns out. I think we start shooting in March." He also added that, "I'm like the villain, but we'll see". The inference could mean he may be one in a collection of foes in the new film.
The traditional start-of-production press release from Disney is believed to be early next year, and is suspected to fill in at least a couple of details.
As reported by Latino Post, both Disney and Lucasfilm have released a casting call for a "strong, young, female character," one who could play a significant role in the story of the Solo family. In fact, director Rian Johnson is said to be very on-hand during the screening process, since this female character will be in multiple scenes in the film.
"'Star Wars: Episode VIII' will continue the saga after 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'," Bob Iger, Disney's Chairman and CEO announced in March as reported by StarWars.com. He also mentioned Rian Johnson will write the script and direct the film as well.
This episode is surrounded with so much secrecy that no other information is being told about it. Nevertheless, Iger announced that it is set for release on May 26, 2017, which is "forty years and a day after the release of Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977."
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