Written by new-contact on Jun 11, 2014. Posted in On Location

Gareth Edwards to film Star Wars spinoff movie on location in UK

Filmmaker Gareth Edwards will shoot a spinoff Star Wars movie in the UK. Director JJ Abrams is already at work in London on Star Wars: Episode VII as the first in a new trilogy, but Disney/Lucasfilm is also planning a series of non-trilogy spinoff movies.

“The UK crew that we're working with on Star Wars: Episode VII is incredible,” said Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm: “They're among the most gifted and passionate when it comes to film and storytelling. Star Wars couldn't be in better hands.”

Added UK Chancellor George Osborne: “Lucasfilm and Disney's decision to shoot the Star Wars standalone movie in the UK is testament to the incredible talent in Britain. The further changes the government made to the film tax relief at Budget 2014 will support our highly skilled, innovative creative sectors so that they continue to thrive and encourage more films to be made in the UK.”

Star Wars: Episode VII is currently using Pinewood Studios as a base in London and has also filmed on location in Abu Dhabi. Gareth Edwards’ spinoff movie will film at Pinewood in 2015 and is rumoured to focus on a popular character such as bounty hunter Boba Fett, Jedi Master Yoda or perennial favourite Han Solo.

The UK’s filming incentive was boosted last year to offer 25% on the first GBP20 million of production expenditure, while the cultural test was modernised and the minimum required spending sharply reduced. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy and The Avengers: Age of Ultron have also been based in London.

(Images: Lucasfilm)