The seventh installment of the space opera film "Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens" is set approximately 30 years after the events in "Return of the Jedi." The film, which is expected to be released on Dec.18, is going to be the first out of the planned "Star Wars" trilogy that was announced by Disney after it acquired Lucasfilm in October 2012. 

Since the film takes place three decades following the Battle of Endor, it's only fitting that the characters reflect the years that passed. The protagonists from the original George Lucas films are back to reprise their legendary roles, including Mark Hamill who will once again be seen as Luke Skywalker, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia Organa, Harrison Ford as the famous space smuggler Han Solo, and Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca.  John Boyega and Daisy Ridley will join the cast as Finn and Rey, respectively.  Plot details, though, have not been disinterred, but sources have claimed that the story will be revolving around a young female protagonist.   

J.J. Abrams helms the film, although he initially declined to spearhead the project. After much persuasion, he not only agreed to direct the film, but is also one of the co-writers. Due to the director's past experiences in science-fiction projects, Abrams is believed to be the right person for the job.

However, Abrams will reportedly not be returning to direct the sequel because Rian Johnson, known for works such as "Brick" and "Looper," had confirmed in August 2014 that he would be taking control of the heavy lifting, in other words, directing "Episode VIII." Currently, the filmmaker has not given a release date for "Star Wars: Episode VIII."