Star Wars: The Force Awakens was a massive undertaking, one that many directors probably wouldn’t want to tackle. And while J.J. Abrams decided to take the reins on this highly-anticipated sequel, that doesn’t mean he possesses nerves of unbreakable steel.
The latest addition to the Star Wars franchise – the first live-action cinematic endeavor since George Lucas bungled the prequels – is scheduled to hit theaters on December 18, 2015. As that day approaches, more information about the flick is starting to trickle out. This includes Abrams’ mental state while shooting The Force Awakens .
During his recent chat with MTV News , the acclaimed filmmaker discussed the anxieties that plagued him while filming Star Wars: Episode VII . Since the project is under so much scrutiny – fans are quick to discuss and pick apart every little aspect of the sequel online – it’s no wonder that Abrams was under a considerable amount of pressure.
“It was an amazing experience making this movie, for everyone. There was a sort of weird buzz in the air when we were making this movie. But we were all just aware of how hard we had to work to make it something worthy of peoples’ time.”
However, that doesn’t necessarily mean Star Wars didn’t come without its fair share of stresses . Abrams didn’t hesitate to point that out.
“It is, without question, an intense and terrifying prospect… The opportunity, I think, is greater than the fear, greater than the risk. I’m more excited about the work that everyone has done in the movie and the incredible cast.”
In addition to keeping Star Wars fans happy – Abrams faced a similar issue while making Star Trek and Star Trek Into Darkness – the director has reportedly clashed behind-the-scenes with the folks at Disney. As the Guardian explains, he and some of the suits don’t necessarily see eye-to-eye about the latest Star Wars flick.
According to 4Chan user Spoiler Man , Abrams and Disney are allegedly battled over “key issues” regarding Star Wars: The Force Awakens . Despite the rumored drama taking place behind the camera, Spoiler Man points out that the director’s entry into the long-running franchise is on par with George Lucas’ 1977 original.
Spoiler Man also coughed up the following synopsis (via Reddit ). Warning: If you don’t want to know anything about Star Wars: The Force Awakens prior to the movie hitting theaters, then you should skip the following passage.
“The premise of the film is that the Force has become stronger and more potent. There is a great tremor in the Force early in the film; those familiar with the Force feel as if its fundamental nature has somehow changed, while previously oblivious Force-sensitive individuals suddenly realize that they have a gift. This creates a great dichotomy of where to go, because neither Luke nor the antagonists are ready for this new liberation of awareness. Following the repression of the Empire and the Jedi purge, the Force is finally manifesting itself in more people who have the capacity to use it. In this context, it appears as if the Force wants to be used.”
With Disney breathing down his neck and fans pouring over every little detail, is it any wonder that J.J. Abrams was a little terrified while filming Star Wars: The Force Awakens ?
[Lead Image via Newknd]