J.J. Abrams Talks Building a Shared Universe with Star Wars: The Force Awakens
J.J. Abrams has stated that much of the work on Star Wars: The Force Awakens has been preparing for the universe beyond episode 7, claiming that it has been 50% story and 50% long term universe-building.
"Working on this new movie has been as much about trying to set up elements of what is beyond and what you're seeing as it has been about telling a story that will be satisfying in and of itself," Abrams told Wired.
The film is intended as a standalone story, which makes sense considering a different director will helm the next episode. It's also something that hasn't been handled quite so well in the most recent Star Wars films over ten years ago.
Abrams pointed out that he has met regularly with writer/director RianJohnson during pre-production for episode 8, to ensure a smooth transition. Disney have been extremely cautious toward ensuring that Episode 8 isn't weighed down by heavy shared universe lifting.
"What (Lawrence Kasdan) and I did was set up certain key relationships, certain key questions, conflicts. And we knew where certain things were going," Abrams said. Clearly, no shortcuts are being taken by Disney.
Sources have estimated that The Force Awakens will surpass Jurassic World and The Avengers with a predicted record-breaking opening of $225 million. The short-term success of the film is unquestionable. But Disney are taking no risks on the franchise's longevity.
Source: Screenrant
