Walt Disney Studios and Lucasfilm have not said whether “Star Wars: Episode VII” will be in 3D, but they have confirmed that Episodes II and III will not be converted and released in 3D as previously announced.
But in announcing that J.J. Abrams has been named to direct “Episode VII,” there is some assumption that the new film will be in 3D since Abrams’ “Star Trek: Into Darkness,” coming in May, will be in 3D.
“Episode VII” is the first of a new series of Star Wars films to come from Lucasfilm under the leadership of Kathleen Kennedy. Academy Award-winning writer Michael Arndt will write the screenplay.
One of the most compelling announcements is that Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg are consulting on the project. Kasdan has a long history with Lucasfilm, as screenwriter on “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Return of the Jedi.” Kinberg was writer on Sherlock Holmes and Mr. and Mrs. Smith.
Abrams and his production company Bad Robot have a proven track record of blockbuster movies that feature complex action, heartfelt drama, iconic heroes and fantastic production values with such credits as “Star Trek,” “Super 8,” and “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.” He also created or co-created such acclaimed television series as “Felicity,” “Alias,” “Lost,” and Fringe.”
“I’ve consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller,” George Lucas said in the prepared announcement by Disney. He’s an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn’t be in better hands.”
“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,” Abrams said. “I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid.”
“It’s very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new Star Wars movie,” said Kennedy. “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.”
J.J., his longtime producing partner Bryan Burk, and Bad Robot are on board to produce along with Kathleen Kennedy under the Disney | Lucasfilm banner.
Abrams has worked with Lucasfilm’s pre-eminent post-production facilities, Industrial Light & Magic and Skywalker Sound, on all of the feature films he has directed, beginning with “Mission: Impossible III.”