In case you’re just coming out of a coma for the past three years, you’re probably well aware thatStar Wars: The Force Awakensis premiering on December 18. The Force is already strong with moviegoers, with over $50 million in advanced tickets sold, shattering the previous pre-salesbox officerecord of $25 million set byThe Dark Knight Risesin 2012. Unfortunately, there has been some “controversy” along the way as well, with a select group of fans reacting negatively to the first trailer, whereJohn Boyega’s Finn is first seen as a Stormtrooper. During an appearance onHoward Stern’s radio program,Star Wars: The Force AwakensdirectorJ.J. Abramsreveals that he doesn’t understand why some people have a problem with a blackStormtrooper. When Stern says he doesn’t understand the problem, the filmmaker responded with the following.
“Neither did I. All I know is thatJohn Boyegais extraordinary in the movie. I think the people who are complaining about that probably have bigger problems than there’s a black Stormtrooper.”
The filmmaker also addressed the absence ofLuke Skywalkerin any of the trailers, photos or other bits of footage released thus far fromStar Wars: The Force Awakens. His absence has fueled several rumors about what he’s been up to sinceStar Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi, none of which have been confirmed, although many are quite intriguing. When asked about why he decided not to showcase this iconic character, the filmmaker had this to say.
“Here’s the thing. I really want to make sure we’re not ruining the movie for people, that they’re not seeing too much of it before it comes out. I hate when I see a trailer, and I feel like I’ve just seen a whole movie in an encapsulated form. It makes me nuts. You don’t have to show the whole story. I’d rather ask questions and have them be answered for me.”
J.J. Abrams directsStar Wars: The Force Awakensfrom a script he co-wrote withLawrence Kasdan. The ensemble cast includes franchise favorites such asHarrison Ford,Mark Hamill,Carrie Fisher,Anthony DanielsandPeter Mayhew, along with new stars such asAdam Driver,Daisy Ridley,John Boyega,Oscar Isaac,Lupita Nyong’o,Andy Serkis,Domhnall GleesonandMax von Sydow.Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams and Bryan Burk are producing with Tommy Harper and Jason D. McGatlin serving as executive producers. Click on the audio player below to hear what the filmmaker had to say about the black Stormtrooper controversy and Luke Skywalker as the countdown continues toStar Wars: The Force Awakens.
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