It was announced earlier this week that the filming for Episode IX would begin today and Director J.J. Abrams began with a thoughtful Tweet.
“Bittersweet starting this next chapter without Carrie, but thanks to an extraordinary cast and crew, we are ready to go. Grateful for @rianjohnson and special thanks to George Lucas for creating this incredible world and beginning a story of which we are lucky to be a part. #IX”
Although fan reception to Abrams’ The Force Awakens installment to the franchise was universally praised, with the recent backlash over The Last Jedi from some fans, I don’t envy the expectations he must be facing. With the return of a familiar cast that includes Mark Hamill and Billy Dee Williams who will be reprising his role of Lando Calrissian, the social media “woes” from those fans looking for something to trash about the films, might make his work easier.
What stood out to me in the Tweet was the positive tone Abrams created thanking all who have helped in leading up to the final film in the trilogy, including creator George Lucas and the “embattled” Rian Johnson. And of course, he also remembered Carrie Fisher which I am sure tugged at the “heart strings” of everyone reading. Carrie Fisher will forever be our “Princess”. As Mark Hamill has Tweeted, #CarrieOnForever.
The Force Awakens was among my favorite additions to the entire saga and I am excited to see what Abrams has planned for the film.
Star Wars: Episode IX is schedule for release in December 2019.
