‘Star Wars Episode 8’ Updates: New Set Photos Revealed; How Will the Upcoming Film’s Plot Progress?

Star Wars
Moviegoers wait before the first showing of the movie ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' at the entrance of a movie theatre in Tokyo, Japan, December 18, 2015. REUTERS/Issei Kato REUTERS/Issei Kato

The production team of the upcoming "Star Wars Episode VIII" have released the first stills from the set of the film. Based on the images, fans of the franchise will get to see both new and familiar elements in the next installment of the series.

The first photo taken from the set of "Episode VIII" was posted by director Rian Johnson on his Tumblr account. The image shows cinematographer Steve Yedlin standing in front of a huge prop which appears to be a section of the Millennium Falcon.

According to Johnson, the image was taken as the crew were wrapping up the fourth week of production for the film.

But aside from the director's photo, Coming Soon also released a ton of new images from the set of "Episode VIII" in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Based on the images, the upcoming film will feature new alien characters. But, some of the stills also show a familiar-looking landspeeder cruising the streets.

So far, it is not yet clear how the story of "Star Wars: Episode VIII" will unfold. Of course, it will be chronologically set after "The Force Awakens" but as speculated by Cinemablend, Johnson might follow the usual pattern in previous "Star Wars" films.

This could mean that "Episode VIII" may not take place directly after "The Force Awakens." Instead, according to the site, it might jump ahead to a specific period in the future.

But, despite this, the film will probably still cover important plot points that were introduced in its prequel. For instance, the last film left off with Rey finding Luke Skywalker, played by Mark Hamill. This means in the next film, Daisy Ridley's character might be portrayed as an already skilled student of the Jedi.

"Episode VIII" could also provide a bit of a backstory for John Boyega's Finn character. Specifically, it could explain why he decided to betray the First Order or how he was recruited and trained as a Stormtrooper.

"Star Wars Episode VIII" is scheduled to hit theaters on Dec. 15, 2017. Aside from the actors mentioned above, the upcoming film will also feature the return of Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong'o, Domhall Gleeson, Andy Serkis and Gwendoline Christie.

As for the film's new cast members, these include Laura Dern, Kelly Marie Tran and Benicio del Toro.

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.