|
 "Episode VIII," written and directed by Rian Johnson, will
now be released on Dec. 15, 2017, rather than the previously
scheduled May 26, 2017, date.
Hollywood blockbusters released during the summer months have
drawn in the biggest audiences in recent years but Disney noted
the success of "The Force Awakens," which was released worldwide
last month.
"The Force Awakens" already has become the highest-grossing
release in North America with $861 million and the third-biggest
global release in history, taking in $1.88 billion at the box
office to date.
"Episode VIII" will start filming in London in February and is
expected to continue the tale of new characters Rey (Daisy
Ridley), Finn (John Boyega), Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) and the
villainous Kylo Ren (Adam Driver).
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Franchise veterans Carrie Fisher (General Leia) and Mark Hamill
(Luke Skywalker) also are expected to return, although Disney did
not comment on casting.
"Star Wars: Rogue One," a stand-alone story set in the world of
"Star Wars" with new characters, will be released this December.
Disney said it will put the fifth installment of its popular
"Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, starring Johnny Depp, in the
May 2017 slot previously occupied by "Episode VIII." The franchise
has grossed $3.7 billion worldwide to date.
(Reporting by Piya Sinha-Roy; Editing by Jill Serjeant and Bill
Trott
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