Well the rumors and sources were true and now it’s official: J.J. Abrams has signed on to direct and product the next installment of the ‘Star Wars’ franchise, ‘Star Wars VII.’

While there was still some who were holding out on the speculation a couple days ago, there’s no denying the fact now. Having Abrams direct ‘Star Wars VII’ is a big coup for Disney and Lucasfilms. In the press statement released last night, Kathleen Kennedy said of the news:

“It’s very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new Star Wars movie. J.J. is the perfect director to helm this. Beyond having such great instincts as a filmmaker, he has an intuitive understanding of this franchise. He understands the essence of the Star Wars experience, and will bring that talent to create an unforgettable motion picture.”

You may recall that Abrams had originally stated he had no interest in helming a ‘Star Wars’ film and was more content on being a fanboy in the audience. But Kennedy was keen on having Abrams direct so she personally went and visited the filmmaker at his offices and convinced him to take the job. (All I can say is that it must have been one hell of a pitch!)

Kennedy will develop ‘Star Wars VII” with Abrams who will be directing from a script written by Michael Arndt. In addition, Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg have been named as consultants on the project. Previously it was reported that the two would be writing scripts for a ‘Star Wars’ spinoff with some speculating for a possible ‘Star Wars’ TV series. Now it looks like they also be collaborating alongside Kennedy and Abrams.

George Lucas was also obviously pleased about the deal stating, “I’ve consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller.  He’s an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn’t be in better hands.”

However, no one could be more happier than Abrams himself:

“To be a part of the next chapter of the Star Wars saga, to collaborate with Kathy Kennedy and this remarkable group of people, is an absolute honor. I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid.”

Known for his intense secrecy, not much is known about the plot and knowing Abrams, not much will be known until after filming is concluded, but what is known is that the director will not be committed to Disney’s release date of 2015 and if he needs more time to get the film right, then fans may have to wait a little while longer to see the sequel.

Now that the news is official, what do you think of having Abrams pretty much being responsible for two of the biggest franchises in nerd history?

 

Source: THR