"Sicario" actor Benicio del Toro has shared his thoughts on how director Rian Johnson will shape the upcoming sci-fi space film "Star Wars: Episode VIII."
In his interview with Empire Magazine to promote Denis Villenueve's forthcoming action crime drama film "Sicario," del Toro said that he thought that Johnson would bring a "cool" sci-fi pragmatism in the upcoming film. Aside from expressing his love for del Toro's action crime film "Looper," del Toro viewed Johnson as one of the skilled people who could expand the "Star Wars" franchise.
Johnson was tagged as a good choice as director of "Star Wars: Episode VIII," when the film sequel was announced, as per Cinema Blend. Along with the action crime film "Looper," Johnson is also known for his works, including adventure comedy "The Brothers Bloom" and the crime drama "Brick."
Aside from del Toro, "Star Wars: Episode VIII" stars Mark Hamill and Oscar Isaac. Exact details on the plot, additional characters, and cast are yet to be revealed. With Johnson helming the film, J.J. Abrams is set to direct "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" while "Jurassic World" filmmaker Colin Trevorrow will helm "Star Wars: Episode IX."
Meanwhile, fans are set to see Abrams' "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens." Set 30 years after the events in the "Return of Jedi," it showcases an ensemble of both old and new heroes and villains. The film also Isaac, Hamill, Max von Sydow, Simon Pegg, Daisy Ridley, Domhnall Gleeson, John Boyega, Gwendoline Christie, Adam Driver, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford, among others.
With Johnson set to helm the film, "Star Wars" director George Lucas is on board to co-pen the screenplay. Ram Bergman, Tom Karnowski, and Kathleen Kennedy are set to co-produce the film.
Johnson's "Star Wars: Episode VIII" is slated to premiere in theaters on May 26, 2017 while Abrams' "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" hits theaters on Dec. 18. Meanwhile, Trevorrow's "Star Wars: Episode IX" premieres in 2019.