Lucasfilm, in a statement released today, announced the cast of the upcoming “Star Wars: Episode VII.” While still untitled, the cast list is enough to get imaginations running wild. Here’s a breakdown of all the new cast members so you can get acquainted with the exciting new direction Abrams and co. are taking.
Boyega has been in several indie films in the UK, the most notable of which being 2011’s “Attack the Block,” where he was lauded for his portrayal of Moses. Boyega looks to be a strong protagonist for the film. Sources report to “Variety” that Boyega will be playing a Jedi character. Recommended Watching: “Attack the Block”
One of the most unknown actors on the list, Ridley has very little backlog to look into. Then again, most of the world didn’t know who Mark Hamill or Carrie Fisher were until after stellar performances in the original trilogy. It’s likely that Ridley could be playing the daughter of Han Solo and Leia Skywalker, as it has been rumored that their children will play a large role in the new films. Recommended Watching: “Blue Season”
Having played supporting roles in many Oscar-nominated films in the past, including “Lincoln,” “Inside Llewyn Davis,” and “J.Edgar,” Driver brings a little big-name experience. According to Variety, Driver will play a “Darth Vader-like main villain.” Recommended Watching: “Girls,” “Inside Llewyn Davis”
The cast meeting via Huffington Post.
Coming off a Golden Globe nomination for “Inside Llewyn Davis,” Isaac is rumored (again, “Variety”) to be playing a character with a Han Solo look to him. Nothing else really needs to be said, expect a great performance from this Hollywood veteran. Recommended Watching: “Inside Llewyn Davis,” “Drive”
The master of mo-cap in Hollywood, it is not confirmed yet whether Serkis will be playing a live-action or CGI character. However, seeing Serkis work his magic alongside Mayhew would be amazing. Recommended Watching: “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “Rise of the Planted of the Apes”
Another relatively new actor, Gleeson just recently had one of his first starring roles in 2013’s “About Time.” Fun fact: Gleeson played Bill Weasley in the “Harry Potter” series, alongside his father Brendan Gleeson, who portrayed Mad-Eye Moody. Recommended Watching: “About Time”
A Hollywood veteran, Sydow is a fantastic actor who could play anything from a stoic, wise Jedi master to a brooding Sith lord. I’m personally hoping for another Palpatine-style character out of Sydow, but either role will be spectacular. Recommended Watching: “The Exorcist,” “Minority Report”
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