Most of the Star Wars news in the past few weeks has revolved around J.J. Abrams’ wildly anticipated series update Star Wars: Episode VII, which will lead into two additional films, but Disney and Lucasfilm have more plans for the franchise than just that new, main trilogy. At least three standalone movies set within the Star Wars universe are in the works, including one directed by Godzilla helmer Gareth Edwards. Now, we’ve learned that Disney has opted to shoot that standalone in the U.K., where Episode VII is currently shooting.
Like Abrams’ film, Edwards’ standalone will be filmed at the Pinewood Studios west of London next year. Chancellor George Osborne was the one to confirm the news, tweeting:
On set of Episode VII tonight, can announce another #StarWars film will be made in UK. A #LongTermEconomicPlan in a galaxy far far away
— George Osborne (@George_Osborne) June 10, 2014
While on set, Osborne also tweeted a photo of himself conversing with Abrams and Lucasfilm president Kathy Kennedy beside a familiar face from the franchise:
With #StarWars director J.J Abrams and Lucasfilm president Kathy Kennedy, talking to a key cast member.. pic.twitter.com/12sRtBbf8E
— George Osborne (@George_Osborne) June 10, 2014
Lucasfilm’s decision to film the standalone in the U.K. shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise, considering that Abrams has been vocally pleased with Pinewood Studios thus far.
As far as Edwards’ standalone goes, we’ve known he would direct since May 22nd, but we still don’t know much of anything about what it will be about. Gary Whitta, best known for The Book of Eli, is writing the script, but it could be about bounty hunter Boba Fett, X-Wing Squadron, Jedi master Yoda or really anything. The fact that it’s coming after Episode VII also means the movie could follow an entirely new character.
The standalone will hit theaters on December 16th, 2016.