Sci-Fi Bulletin: Exploring the Universes of SF, Fantasy, Horror and Spy-fi!

Following the accident in which star Harrison Ford injured his leg, filming on Star Wars Episode VII will take a two-week production break in August, it has been revealed.

However the planned release date of December 18, 2015 has not been moved back, despite persistent rumours to the contrary. As the official site points out, “Harrison is doing well and is looking forward to returning to the set soon. Shooting remains on track to wrap in the fall.”

The film has also added two new cast members, who were found in open auditions in the UK and US. Producer Kathleen Kennedy explained, “The Star Wars universe has always been about discovering and nurturing young talent and in casting Episode VII, we wanted to remain absolutely faithful to this tradition.”

British actor Pip Andersen and US-born Crystal Clarke, who is studying in Glasgow, have been cast, although their roles have not yet been revealed.  Andersen’s background in parkour is highlighted in the brief biography on the official site; Clarke’s first movie, The Moon and the Sun, is due for release next year.