‘Star Wars’ Movies: Disney Spending Millions To Prevent Leaks From ‘Episode 8’; ‘The Force Awakens’ to Arrive On iTunes In March

By Trisha Cerdena
Star Wars: Episide VII - The Force Awaken
Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens will have its world premiere in Los Angeles on Dec. 14. official web site

Disney has reportedly allocated over $4 million in its attempt to carry out security procedures during the shooting of the upcoming ‘Star Wars’ sequel. As a means of preventing unauthorized leaks, a "special team with drones" will be present at the new site, together with 600 guards and day-and-night security.

‘Star Wars: Episode 8’ already began filming at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, with shooting reportedly scheduled for a relocation to Croatia this month. The new movie will be the next installment in the ‘Star Wars’ saga, following ‘The Force Awakens’ that soared to the top of the box office upon its release last year.

Cast members Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega and Adam Driver are set to reprise their roles and return for ‘Episode VIII,’ together with new co-stars Benicio Del Toro (‘Sicario,’ ‘Guardians of the Galaxy) and Laura Dern (‘Wild,’ ‘Jurassic Park’). ‘Star Wars: Episode 8’ is expected to hit theaters in December 2017. It will be preceded by a spin-off film titled ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,’ to be helmed by ‘Godzilla’ director Gareth Edwards.

Fans who are planning on purchasing digital movies may not have to wait for a longer time for the ‘Star Wars’ film saga.

On a recent entry on Bluray.com, ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ is said to be released on iTunes on March 15, although Disney is yet to confirm such date.

As such, the film is then expected to be released before the physical version is distributed. This has already been a trend over the years because movie studios tend to generate incentive for customers to purchase digital copies over their physical form.

Also, 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' can be accessed through downloads via Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere starting Apr. 1, with the Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD to be released on Apr. 5.

Bonus features in J.J Abrams‘s chart-topping movie will include materials that will take fans behind-the-scenes, giving a more detailed look at the film’s production. This will include deleted scenes, special footage and exclusive interviews with the actors and filmmakers. Fans can look forward to a feature documentary titled ‘The Force Awakens”: A Cinematic Journey,’ the creation of BB-8, an in-depth look at the lightsaber battle between Kylo Ren and Rey, and several deleted scenes, among others.

Actor Peter Mayhew, who takes on the role of Chewbacca in the ‘Star Wars’ movies, has already taken to social media and posted images of his original ‘Star Wars’ script, stating that he will carry on in doing so as it leads up to a huge announcement. 

Other ‘Star Wars’ news have also graced the headlines, including new details about the expansions of Star Wars Land onto Disneyland and Walt Disney World, such as a virtual reality ride aboard the classic Millennium Falcon- the spaceship flown by Han Solo(Harrison Ford) in the films. Chief Executive Robert Iger already stated at the company's annual shareholders meeting that the new attraction "will be great."

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories