Director J.J. Abrams revealed why Princess Leia was a general and not a Jedi in his upcoming space sci-fi film "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens."
In his interview with IGN, Abrams said that being a genral had been simply a choice Leia had made. The director added that Leia had wanted to run the rebellion and there had been a resistance that had made her consider herself as a general instead of a Jedi. He added that there was no regret that she could have become a Jedi.
Abrams also said that Leia was still "Force" strong in "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" and it was something that an was aan intrinsic piece of her character.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, being capable of using the "Force" does not necessarily mean that they are obliged to use that force. It stands as a valid reason behind Princess Leia using any lightsaber in the promotional material for "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens."
"Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" is set 30 years after the events in the "Return of Jedi." It showcases an ensemble of both old and new heroes and villains played by Carrie Fisher as Leia, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Gwendoline Christie, Simon Pegg, Max von Sydow, Domhnall Gleeson, Adam Driver, Harrison Ford, and Mark Hamill, among others.
Abrams' "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" is slated to premiere in theaters in the United States on Dec. 18.
Watch the "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens" international trailer here: