J.J. Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy are on-stage, discussing the making of the film. Regarding practical effects in The Force Awakens, J.J. says he wanted the audience to believe people were in this universe, and it was real. Thus, more practical sets and props. There will be CGI, but there is plenty of practical.
Big cheers for set photos featuring J.J. with a stormtrooper, and Chewbacca checking out a shot.
Discussing their Celebration experiences, Kathleen Kennedy discusses hiring two fans, Lee and Oliver, from the R2-D2 Builders Club to work on The Force Awakens. They’ve now joined the panel — along with R2-D2.
The Artoo on stage is a new design requested by J.J. Abrams.
They’ve also designed all-new droids and domes. Each pilot will have a different droid in the back of his or her ship.
And now BB-8 takes the stage!
J.J. says there was talk about BB-8 being CG, but it was better to build for the actors, for the realism for the film. So, he was actually built!
Kathleen says that Harrison Ford is “the only person who can make an emergency landing on a golf course in front of two doctors.” He’s home, resting, and wanted to be at Celebration. Maybe next year.
“That was an amazing that he did [landing that plane].” — J.J.
New photos of the three new leads! “We could not have ended up with 3 more talented actors,” J.J. says.
…and they’re here. Huge ovation.
Daisy says Rey is a scavenger, until she meets Finn, and their adventure begins.
Finn *might* be a stormtrooper…
Oscar Isaac says his character is “the best friggin’ pilot in the galaxy.,” sent on a mission by a certain princess…
John Boyega says he asked Harrison Ford to sign one of his action figures. “This is weird, but I’ll sign it,” Ford said.
J.J. Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy are on-stage, discussing the making of the film. Regarding practical effects in The Force Awakens, J.J. says he wanted the audience to believe people were in this universe, and it was real. Thus, more practical sets and props. There will be CGI, but there is plenty of practical.
Discussing female characters, Kathleen says “Moving forward, there are going to be a lot of wonderful [female] characters.”
J.J.: “One of the things I loved so much about the original trilogy was the sense that everything was real…” Everything had a lived-in look. There was a contrast between the pristine Empire and the scruffy Rebellion. They are following that feeling.
Fan question: Are they worried they’ll disappoint fans. “The reality is,” J.J. says, “I’ve never had more fun in my life working on anything, and the opportunity far outweighs the risk.”
Do they consider fan opinions when crafting story? Kennedy says nothing is more important than the fans, and that the creators themselves are fans.
What advice would you give to a young, aspiring filmmaker? “Put them out there, let people see them,” J.J. says.
Boyega says he waited until the cast photo was released before he told his parents he got the part — he was worried they wouldn’t believe him!
We’ve met the new faces — now meet the new stormtroopers! Standing ovation!
Now Anthony Daniels takes the stage, as does “freedom fighter, diplomat, princess,” Carrie Fisher.
Crowd is still standing! Peter Mayhew, a.k.a. Chewie, and Mark Hamill join them. Huge roar from the crowd.
Anthony Daniels says the character of C-3PO means a lot to him, and thanks the fans for their support.
Are we going to see a return to the hair buns for Leia. “They’re tired now,” Fisher says. And no metal bikini.
Carrie Fisher was the first female Star Wars character. She says she’s glad to “have some backup” with all the new female characters.
Mark Hamill: “Thank you. Without the ultra passionate fans, we wouldn’t be here…All my adult life, I’ve felt such love from you. You’re more than just fans, you’re family.”
Everyone is coming out for a photo — including Artoo and BB-8.
Who wants to see a new teaser? — J.J.
“We cannot thank you enough. The energy you are throwing our way is evidence of the Force, and we cannot be more grateful.” The lights go down!
“Chewie…we’re home.” And the crowd goes wild.
That’s it! Thanks for following along!
Hi folks! We’re live at the Force Awakens panel!