Filming starts on ‘Star Wars’ Han Solo story, first cast image released

THE FILM that fi nally reveals how the galaxy’s most famous odd couple — Han Solo and Chewbacca — became pilot and fi rst mate of the Millennium Falcon doesn’t hit the multiplexes until May 2018, but it’s never too early to start teasing Star Wars fans

The fi rst official image of the cast of the upcoming intergalactic adventure has just been released by Lucasfi lm and shows Alden Ehrenreich (a young Han Solo), Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover ( Lando Calrissian) and Chewbacca (this time played by (Joonas Suotamo) crammed into the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon.

‘Nothing short of miraculous’

Of the fi lm, the fi nal title of which is yet to be announced, directors Phil Lord and Miller said “Watching such inspired people from all over the world, with such unique voices, come together for the sole purpose of making art, is nothing short of miraculous. We can’t think of anything funny to say, because we just feel really moved, and really lucky.”

The movie — which also stars Thandie Newton and Phoebe Waller-Bridge — will follow Han Solo and his sidekick Chewbacca as they encounter Lando Calrissian ( Donald Glover) ahead of the events of ‘Star Wars: A New Hope’.

Meanwhile, Harrelson previously teased he would be playing a “bit of a criminal” in the upcoming movie.

He said: “I’m a mentor to Han. I’m also a bit of a criminal. I don’t think I should say more than that because the Force is not allowing me.”

And movie bosses are thrilled to have Harrelson signed up to the fi lm.

Of Harrelson’s casting, directors Lord and Miller said: “We couldn’t be more excited to work with an artiste with as much depth and range as Woody.

“His ability to fi nd both humour and pathos, often in the same role, is truly unique. He is also very good at ping pong.”

And while Han Solo’s origins story won’t be touching down until next May, those looking for their next Star Wars fi x need only wait until December when “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” is officially released around the world. — Relaxnews/BANG Showbiz