Vanity Fair does it again! The first detailed look into the much anticipated Episode VIII: The Last Jedi!
On the eve of the 40th anniversary of Star Wars: A New Hope, Vanity Fair dropped a bombshell online in the form of a new article and pictures from the upcoming The Last Jedi. This has been a tradition of theirs since Star Wars returned the first time back in 1999. Since then, Vanity Fair has celebrated each saga release with in-depth behind-the-scenes articles, and amazing cast and crew photos by photographer Annie Leibovitz.
This year, writer David Kamp went all in with some great interviews from Mark Hamill and Rian Johnson. While not giving anything away regarding plot or story, he was able to draw out some insight into The Last Jedi’s characters and overall feel.
Mark Hamill recounted his several trips to the Irish island of Skellig Michael, the site of the in-universe planet Ahch-to; home to Luke Skywalker in his apparent exile. He describes what it was like making the long trip up and down all those steps, and working with newcomer Daisy Ridley who plays Rey. During the interview, he gave some great candid dialogue about Carrie Fisher, who unfortunately passed away suddenly this past December. It’s a topic that brings back fond memories for him; of their time together through the years, but also regret and sadness that’s still fresh.
All photos: Annie Leibovitz via Vanity Fair
A New Director Takes The Reins
Picking up from where J.J Abrams left off on The Force Awakens, director Rian Johnson has some big shoes to fill but is set to deliver in December. Rian describes his excitement and fear of being able to play in the Star Wars universe. He also touches briefly on the characters in the film, and how he put a lot of thought into each one and how he could push their stories forward. Putting each one in the most difficult or trying situation he could think of. I really liked the bit about him being surprised at how much creative control he was given; to guide the story as he saw fit in many ways. In my opinion, it will give the movie a unique feel, Rian is a very different type of director than has come before in the previous entries of the saga.
Being the middle act of a new trilogy is quite the undertaking, but he definitely understands the weight that has been put on him.
Hearing his enthusiasm for being on set, and working with the actors really makes me excited for what will be released come December.
He also described his very close relationship with the late Carrie. Being a script doctor herself, Carrie and Rian spent quite a bit of time going over the script together, something he remembers fondly. This being Carrie’s last film will only make this movie more special.
More New Blood
New characters were revealed alongside a new location; the Casino city Canto Bight. A place for the wealthy in the galaxy to rub elbows. It’s a very unique location, more reminiscent of the visuals of the prequel era. The photos from this locale are great, several new species of aliens on display with costume designer Michael Kaplan.
Previously announced at celebration, Vietnamese actress Kelly Marie Tran who will play Resistance maintenance worker Rose Tico, is among the new cast. She has the largest role out of the new cast members, and is also joined by Veronica Ngo who plays her sister Paige. Her plotline revolves around some clandestine mission with John Boyega’s Finn.
Laura Dern’s character was finally revealed to be Resistance Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo. Her look, to me, is very 1920’s elegance and I can’t wait to see what she brings to the film.
Somewhat revealed was Benicio Del Toro’s character, called “DJ” by the filmmakers. Rian explained that he will go unnamed in the film which is really different and I’m anxious to see what they do with him. Along with the photo, came a brief description of him as being a “shady character” with unclear allegiances. Let the speculation begin!
She’s Royalty
What really stood out to me in the Vanity Fair article; the central theme, was definitely Carrie Fisher. She left her mark not only on the film, but with the cast and crew that worked with her. Rumors have been thrown around in the wake of her death as to how they may have to adjust the films story to reflect this. Johnson, and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy, have assured me there is nothing to worry about. General Leia Organa has a very large role in The Last Jedi. As for Episode IX, very careful thought and planning have gone into respectfully fulfilling her story arc.
As I said before, with Carrie being gone, this film will hold new meaning, and be even more emotionally impactful as her last appearance as a character and person beloved for a lifetime.
Make sure you check out the full article at Vanityfair.com and all their other great Star Wars coverage!
Mike Harris hails from the suburbs of Chicago and has been a fan for most of his life. Working as an industrial radiographer and raising a family with his wife take up most of his time, but there’s always room for Star Wars books and podcasts! Just looking to give back to Star Wars and the fan community, it’s been a source of fun and learning for him for so long.