“Star Wars Episode VII” shall now be known as “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens!”
We’ve been wondering what the title will be for the next “Star Wars” film and now we have it. StarWars.com officially has the title of the film as the banner on their site but with little explanation. Given the secrecy of the upcoming “Star Wars” film it’s no surprise that they are being vague with the naming and leaving things up to speculation. Regardless of that fact, it is exciting to have an official name!
Will the speculation of the name lead to more hype? Just recently Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) tweeted regarding the quality of “Star Wars VII.” While many “Star Wars” fans have regarded “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” as the best of the series, Daniels set the bar high by claiming this next installment may be better.
As many know, “Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens” picks up 30 years after the events of “Return of the Jedi.” Many of the original cast will be reprising their roles including Mark Hamill (Luke), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia), and Harrison Ford (Han Solo). The inclusion of the original cast along with many notable newcomers such as Oscar Isaac (“Inside Llewyn Davis”) and Andy Serkis (“Rise of the Planet of the Apes”) could be the formula for revitalizing the series. The die hard fans of the original trilogy (myself included) may see a smoother transition into modernization by establishing a familiarity with the original cast members.
But, with all of the hype surrounding the film can Disney manage to live up to expectations? “Star Wars” fans are critical…very critical (I should know). With the rumors circulating, photos leaking, and staff talking I’m hoping that it doesn’t set fans up for a let down. Despite these factors that could lead to pessimism, I am thoroughly optimistic. George Lucas was the problem in the end (that’s right I said it) and with a strong studio like Disney and Director J.J. Abrams, I think we’ll get the film we all deserve. Look at what Disney has done for Marvel and what J.J. Abrams has done with “Star Trek.” I don’t think we could have asked for a better team!
Whether fans approve or not, I’m sure that we will receive a more than extravagant Winter blockbuster. The film has a more than ample budget and Disney was prepared to “make it rain” when it came to investing. The worst case scenario is that we get a lackluster story with some amazing lightsaber battles.