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{{Short description|2015 film by J. J. Abrams}}
{{Use mdy dates|date = October 2014}}
{{For|the film's soundtrack|Star Wars: The Force Awakens (soundtrack){{!}}''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' (soundtrack)}}
{{Distinguish|Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens}}
{{Good article}}
{{pp-move}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2019}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{Use list-defined references|date=April 2021}}
{{Infobox film
{{Infobox film
|name = Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens
| name = Star Wars: The Force Awakens
| image = Star Wars The Force Awakens Theatrical Poster.jpg
|image = File:Starwarsviitheforceawakens.jpg
|caption =
| caption = Theatrical release poster
| alt = <!-- The spacing and punctuation in this alt text is intended to assist screen readers. Please test in at least three screen readers before making changes. FOR EXAMPLE, THE BEGINNING PERIOD INSERTS A PAUSE BETWEEN THE READING OF THE INFOBOX HEADER AND THE START OF THE SENTENCE-->
|director = [[J. J. Abrams]]
| director = [[J. J. Abrams]]
|producer = {{Plainlist|
| producer = {{Plainlist|
* [[Kathleen Kennedy (film producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]]
* [[Kathleen Kennedy (producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]]
* J. J. Abrams
* J. J. Abrams
* [[Bryan Burk]]}}
* [[Bryan Burk]]
}}
|screenplay = {{Plainlist|
| writer = {{Plainlist|
* [[Lawrence Kasdan]]
* [[Lawrence Kasdan]]
* J. J. Abrams}}
* J. J. Abrams
* [[Michael Arndt]]
|starring = {{Plainlist|<!-- Order is based on http://starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-7-cast-announced.html: Boyega, Ridley, Driver, Isaac, Serkis, Gleeson and Sydow, with role reprisals by Ford, Fisher, Hamill, Daniels, Mayhew and Baker. Any attempt to change the order WILL BE UNDONE, unless there is a valid, new billing block for ALL actors. -->
}}
* [[John Boyega]]
| based_on = {{Based on|[[List of Star Wars characters|Characters]]|[[George Lucas]]}}
* [[Daisy Ridley]]
| starring = {{Plainlist|
* [[Harrison Ford]]
* [[Mark Hamill]]
* [[Carrie Fisher]]
* [[Adam Driver]]
* [[Adam Driver]]
* [[Daisy Ridley]]
* [[John Boyega]]
* [[Oscar Isaac]]
* [[Oscar Isaac]]
* [[Lupita Nyong'o]]
* [[Andy Serkis]]
* [[Andy Serkis]]
* [[Domhnall Gleeson]]
* [[Domhnall Gleeson]]
* [[Max von Sydow]]
* [[Harrison Ford]]
* [[Carrie Fisher]]
* [[Mark Hamill]]
* [[Anthony Daniels]]
* [[Anthony Daniels]]
* [[Peter Mayhew]]
* [[Peter Mayhew]]
* [[Max von Sydow]]
* [[Kenny Baker (English actor)|Kenny Baker]]<!-- Do NOT add actors without explicit verification from a reliable source! -->
}}
}}
|music = [[John Williams]]
| music = [[John Williams]]
|cinematography = [[Daniel Mindel]]
| cinematography = [[Dan Mindel]]
|editing = {{Plainlist|
| editing = {{Plainlist|
* [[Mary Jo Markey]]
* [[Maryann Brandon]]
* [[Maryann Brandon]]
* [[Mary Jo Markey]]}}
|country = United States
|language = English
|studio = {{Plainlist|
* [[Walt Disney Pictures]]
* [[Lucasfilm]]
* [[Bad Robot Productions]]
}}
}}
| production_companies = {{Plainlist|
|distributor = [[Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures|Walt Disney Studios<br />Motion Pictures]]
* [[Lucasfilm Ltd.]]<!--This is how the studio is billed on the film's poster-->
| url = {{URL|http://www.starwars.com/films/star-wars-episode-vii-the-force-awakens|Star Wars: The Force Awakens}}
* [[Bad Robot]]
|released = {{Film date|2015|12|18}}
}}
|budget = $200 million<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/news/a538457/star-wars-episode-7-script-still-not-finalized.html|title=Star Wars Episode 7 script still not finalized|last=Armitage|first=Hugh|work=[[Digital Spy]]|date=December 16, 2013|accessdate=January 2, 2014}}</ref>
| distributor = [[Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures|Walt Disney Studios<br />Motion Pictures]]<!-- Do not charge 20th Century Fox. SEE FOOTNOTE -->
| released = {{Film date|2015|12|14|[[Hollywood, Los Angeles]]|2015|12|18|United States}}<!-- First and U.S. release dates only per WP:FILMRELEASE! Do NOT add earlier dates without explicit verification that it is the FIRST! -->
| runtime = 138 minutes<ref name="BBFCRuntime">{{cite web |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens |url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/star-wars-the-force-awakens-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0zotmyndc |publisher=[[British Board of Film Classification]] |date=December 7, 2015 |access-date=February 27, 2022 |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211021103934/https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/star-wars-the-force-awakens-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0zotmyndc |url-status=live }}</ref>
| country = United States
| language = English
| budget = $447 million <!-- Please do not replace with $533 million—a tax credit worth $86.6 million has been deducted-->(net)<ref name="Budget-Reid-2023">{{Cite web |last=Reid |first=Caroline |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Becomes The Most Expensive Movie Ever Made |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolinereid/2023/02/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-becomes-the-most-expensive-movie-in-history/ |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=Forbes |language=en |archive-date=March 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230302192919/https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolinereid/2023/02/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-becomes-the-most-expensive-movie-in-history/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
| gross = $2.071&nbsp;billion<ref name="BOM" />
}}
}}


'''''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''''' (also known as '''''Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens''''')<!--The inclusion of this is based on the result of an RfC. Please see the talk page for more.--> is a 2015 American [[space opera]] [[Epic film|epic]] film co-produced, co-written, and directed by [[J.&nbsp;J. Abrams]]. The sequel to ''[[Return of the Jedi]]'' (1983), it is chronologically the seventh film of the "[[Skywalker Saga]]". Set thirty years after ''Return of the Jedi'', ''The Force Awakens'' follows [[Rey (Star Wars)|Rey]], [[Finn (Star Wars)|Finn]], [[Poe Dameron]], and [[Han Solo]]'s search for [[Luke Skywalker]] and their fight in the [[Resistance (Star Wars)|Resistance]], led by General [[Leia Organa]] and veterans of the [[Rebel Alliance]], against [[Kylo Ren]] and the [[First Order (Star Wars)|First Order]], a successor to the [[Galactic Empire (Star Wars)|Galactic Empire]]. The film stars [[Harrison Ford]], [[Mark Hamill]], [[Carrie Fisher]], [[Adam Driver]], [[Daisy Ridley]], [[John Boyega]], [[Oscar Isaac]], [[Lupita Nyong'o]], [[Andy Serkis]], [[Domhnall Gleeson]], [[Anthony Daniels]], [[Peter Mayhew]], and [[Max von Sydow]]<!-- Order is based on the poster's billing block.-->.
'''''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''''' (also known as '''''Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens''''')<ref>{{cite web|title = Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens|url = http://www.starwars.com/films/star-wars-episode-vii-the-force-awakens|website = StarWars.com|publisher = Lucasfilm|accessdate = December 1, 2014}}</ref> is an upcoming American [[epic]] [[space opera]] film<ref name="VarietyApr2013">{{cite news|url = http://variety.com/2013/film/news/disney-planning-for-2015-2017-and-2019-openings-for-star-wars-1200380582|title = Star Wars Movies Coming in 2015, 2017 and 2019|last = McNary|first = Dave|work = Variety|date = April 17, 2013|accessdate = May 26, 2013}}</ref><ref name="StarWarsComOct2012">{{cite web|url = http://www.starwars.com/news/new-star-wars-movies-announced-as-disney-enters-agreement-to-acquire-lucasfilm-ltd|title = New Star Wars Movies Announced as Disney Enters Agreement to Acquire Lucasfilm Ltd|work = StarWars.com|date = October 30, 2012|accessdate = May 25, 2013}}</ref> directed by [[J. J. Abrams]]. The seventh installment in the [[Star Wars|''Star Wars'']] film series (excluding spin-offs), it stars [[John Boyega]], [[Daisy Ridley]], [[Adam Driver]], [[Oscar Isaac]], [[Andy Serkis]], [[Domhnall Gleeson]], and [[Max von Sydow]], with [[Harrison Ford]], [[Carrie Fisher]], [[Mark Hamill]], [[Anthony Daniels]], [[Peter Mayhew]] and [[Kenny Baker (English actor)|Kenny Baker]] reprising their roles from previous films.<!-- Order is based on http://starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-7-cast-announced.html: Boyega, Ridley, Driver, Isaac, Serkis, Gleeson and Sydow, with role reprisals by Ford, Fisher, Hamill, Daniels, Mayhew and Baker. Any attempt to change the order WILL BE UNDONE, unless it is a valid, new billing block for ALL actors. --> The story is set approximately 30 years after the events of ''[[Return of the Jedi]]''.<ref name="StarWarsPrMar2014">{{cite web|url = http://starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-set-to-roll-cameras-may-2014.html|title = STAR WARS: EPISODE VII SET TO ROLL CAMERAS MAY 2014|publisher = StarWars.com|date = March 18, 2014|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref>


Work on a seventh entry in the "Skywalker Saga" commenced after [[the Walt Disney Company]]'s acquisition of [[Lucasfilm]] in 2012. The film is the first ''[[Star Wars]]'' film to not extensively involve franchise creator [[George Lucas]], who only served as a [[creative consultant]] in the early stages of production. ''The Force Awakens'' was produced by Abrams, his longtime collaborator [[Bryan Burk]], and Lucasfilm president [[Kathleen Kennedy (producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]]. Abrams and [[Lawrence Kasdan]], co-writer of the [[Star Wars original trilogy|original trilogy]] films ''[[The Empire Strikes Back]]'' (1980) and ''Return of the Jedi'', rewrote an initial script by [[Michael Arndt]]. [[John Williams]], composer for the previous episodic films, returned to compose the [[Star Wars: The Force Awakens (soundtrack)|score]]. [[Principal photography]] began in April 2014 and concluded the following November. Filming took place on sets at [[Pinewood Studios]] in England, and on location mainly in Abu Dhabi, Iceland, and Ireland. On a budget of $447 million, it is the [[List of most expensive films|most expensive film ever made]].
After [[The Walt Disney Company]] acquired [[Lucasfilm]] in 2012, plans for a [[Star Wars sequel trilogy|third ''Star Wars'' trilogy]] were announced. ''The Force Awakens'' will be the first film to be made since the acquisition,<ref name="StarWarsComOct2012" /> with [[Kathleen Kennedy (film producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]], Abrams and Abrams' long-time collaborator [[Bryan Burk]] producing.<ref name="StarWarsComOct2012" /><ref name="StarWarsComJan2013" /> ''Star Wars'' creator [[George Lucas]] serves as creative consultant on the film and the other films that will comprise the planned trilogy.<ref name="StarWarsVideoSeries">[http://starwars.com/news/a-discussion-about-the-future-of-star-wars/index.html "New Video Series: A Discussion About the Future of Star Wars"], ''StarWars.com'', October 30, 2012. Retrieved May 25, 2013.</ref> Abrams directed the film from a screenplay he co-wrote with [[Lawrence Kasdan]], co-writer of the [[Star Wars#Original trilogy|original trilogy]] films ''[[The Empire Strikes Back]]'' and ''Return of the Jedi''. Abrams and Kasdan rewrote an initial script by [[Michael Arndt]], who also wrote the story treatment.<ref>{{cite news|last = Kit|first = Borys|title = Writer Michael Arndt Exits 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/writer-michael-arndt-exits-star-650671|accessdate = October 24, 2013|newspaper = The Hollywood Reporter|date = October 24, 2013}}</ref><ref name="OfficialCast" />


''The Force Awakens'' premiered in [[Hollywood, Los Angeles]], on December 14, 2015, and was released in the United States on December 18. It was positively received by critics, who found it an action-packed film with the mix of new and familiar actors capturing the nostalgia of the original trilogy and giving the franchise new energy.<ref name="rt" /> The film grossed $2.07&nbsp;billion worldwide, [[List of box office records set by Star Wars: The Force Awakens|breaking various box office records]] and becoming the [[List of highest-grossing films in the United States and Canada|highest-grossing film in the United States and Canada]], the [[2015 in film#Highest-grossing films|highest-grossing film of 2015]], and the [[List of highest-grossing films|<!--This is the PEAK POSITION the film achieved NOT the CURRENT. Please do NOT adjust!-->third<!--This is the PEAK POSITION the film achieved NOT the CURRENT. Please do NOT adjust!-->-highest-grossing film at the time of its release]]. It was nominated for five awards at the [[88th Academy Awards]] and received [[List of accolades received by Star Wars: The Force Awakens|numerous other accolades]]. The film was followed by ''[[Star Wars: The Last Jedi|The Last Jedi]]'' (2017) and ''[[Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker|The Rise of Skywalker]]'' (2019), rounding out the [[Star Wars sequel trilogy|''Star Wars'' sequel trilogy]].
''The Force Awakens'' is produced by [[Walt Disney Pictures]], Lucasfilm and [[Bad Robot Productions]],<ref name="StarWarsComJan2013">{{cite web|url = http://starwars.com/news/star-wars-is-being-kick-started-with-dynamite-jj-abrams-to-direct-star-wars-episode-vii.html|title = Star Wars Is Being Kick-Started with Dynamite|publisher = StarWars.com|date = January 25, 2013|accessdate = January 4, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author = Ben Quinn and agencies|url = http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2012/oct/30/disney-lucasfilm-star-wars-deal|title = Disney to buy Star Wars production company Lucasfilm for $4bn|work = [[The Guardian]]|date = October 30, 2012|accessdate = January 4, 2014|location = London}}</ref> and will be distributed by [[Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures]]. Second-unit filming began in April 2014 in [[Abu Dhabi (emirate)|Abu Dhabi]] and [[Iceland]],<ref>{{cite web|url = http://media.twofour54.com/en/news/news/abu-dhabi-is-first-location-for-star-wars-episode-vii.html|title = Abu Dhabi is First Location for Star Wars: Episode VII|publisher = twofour54|date = May 21, 2014|accessdate = May 26, 2014}}</ref> with principal photography taking place between May and November 2014 in Abu Dhabi, Ireland and [[Pinewood Studios]] in England. ''The Force Awakens'' is scheduled for release on December 18, 2015.


== Premise ==
== Plot ==
<!-- Per WP:FILMPLOT, plot summaries for feature films should be between 400 to 700 words. Please check the word count before making any additions. -->
Set approximately 30 years after the demise of Darth Vader, the film will star a trio of new leads along with returning actors from the previous installments.<ref name="StarWarsPrMar2014" />
Thirty years after the Battle of [[Endor (Star Wars)|Endor]],{{efn|As depicted in ''[[Return of the Jedi]]'' (1983)}} the [[First Order (Star Wars)|First Order]] has risen from the fallen [[Galactic Empire (Star Wars)|Galactic Empire]] and seeks to end the [[New Republic (Star Wars)|New Republic]]. The [[Resistance (Star Wars)|Resistance]], led by General [[Leia Organa]], opposes the First Order. Leia searches for her twin brother, [[Luke Skywalker]], who is missing.

On the desert planet [[Jakku]], Resistance pilot [[Poe Dameron]] receives a map to Luke's location. First Order [[Stormtrooper (Star Wars)|stormtroopers]] commanded by [[Kylo Ren]] arrive and capture Poe. His droid, {{nowrap|[[BB-8]]}}, escapes with the map and encounters [[Rey (Star Wars)|Rey]], a lone scavenger. Kylo tortures Poe using [[the Force]] and learns of {{nowrap|BB-8}}. Stormtrooper {{nowrap|[[Finn (Star Wars)|FN-2187]]}}, disillusioned with the First Order, saves Poe, and they escape in a stolen [[TIE fighter]]. Upon learning that {{nowrap|FN-2187}} has no other name, Poe names him "Finn". As they head to Jakku to retrieve {{nowrap|BB-8}}, a First Order [[Star Destroyer]] shoots them, and they crash-land. Finn survives and assumes Poe was killed after finding his jacket in the wreck. Finn encounters Rey and {{nowrap|BB-8}}, but the First Order tracks them and launches an airstrike. Rey, Finn, and {{nowrap|BB-8}} steal the ''[[Millennium Falcon]]'' and escape Jakku.

The ''Falcon'' is discovered and boarded by [[Han Solo]] and [[Chewbacca]]. Gangs seeking to settle debts with Han attack, but the group escapes in the ''Falcon''. At the First Order's [[Starkiller Base]], a planet converted into a superweapon, [[Supreme Leader Snoke]] approves [[General Hux]]'s request to use the weapon for the first time on the New Republic. Snoke questions Kylo's ability to deal with emotions surrounding his father, Han Solo, whom Kylo states means nothing to him.

Aboard the ''Falcon'', Han determines that BB-8's map is incomplete. He then explains that Luke attempted to rebuild the [[Jedi]] Order but exiled himself when an apprentice turned to the dark side, destroyed Luke's temple, and slaughtered the other apprentices. The crew travels to the planet [[Takodana]] and meets with [[cantina]] owner [[Maz Kanata]], who offers help getting {{nowrap|BB-8}} to the Resistance. The Force draws Rey to a secluded vault, where she finds [[Anakin Skywalker]]'s [[lightsaber]]. She experiences disturbing visions, including a childhood memory of a ship leaving her on Jakku. Rey denies the lightsaber at Maz's offering and flees into the woods. Maz gives Finn the lightsaber for safekeeping.

Starkiller Base destroys the New Republic capital and its four neighboring planets, leaving the Resistance on their own. The First Order attacks Takodana in search of {{nowrap|BB-8}}. Han, Chewbacca, and Finn are saved by Resistance [[X-wing fighter]]s led by Poe, who survived the crash. Leia arrives at Takodana with {{nowrap|[[C-3PO]]}} and reunites with Han. Meanwhile, Kylo captures Rey, having realized that she had seen the map, and takes her to Starkiller Base, but she resists his mind-reading attempts. Snoke orders Kylo to bring Rey to him. Discovering she can use the Force, Rey escapes using a [[Jedi mind trick]] on a stormtrooper guard.

At the Resistance base, BB-8 finds [[R2-D2]], who had been in low-power mode since Luke's disappearance. As Starkiller Base prepares to fire once more, the Resistance plans to destroy it by attacking its thermal oscillator. Using the ''Falcon'', Han, Chewbacca, and Finn infiltrate the facility, find Rey, and plant explosives. Han confronts Kylo, calling him by his birth-name Ben, and implores him to abandon the dark side. Kylo seems to consider this but ultimately kills Han. Chewbacca shoots Kylo, injuring him, and sets off the explosives, allowing Poe to attack and destroy the base's thermal oscillator.

Kylo pursues Rey and Finn into the woods and incapacitates Rey. Finn uses the lightsaber to duel Kylo but is quickly defeated. Rey awakens, takes the lightsaber, and defeats Kylo in a duel. Snoke orders Hux to evacuate and bring Kylo to him to complete his training. Chewbacca saves Rey and the injured Finn, and they escape aboard the ''Falcon''. As the Resistance forces flee, Starkiller Base implodes and erupts into a star. {{nowrap|R2-D2}} awakens and reveals the rest of the map, which points to the oceanic planet [[Ahch-To]].

Rey, Chewbacca, and R2-D2 travel to Ahch-To on the ''Falcon''. Rey finds Luke atop a cliff on a remote island and presents him with his lightsaber.


== Cast ==
== Cast ==
{{See also|List of Star Wars characters{{!}}List of ''Star Wars'' characters|List of Star Wars cast members{{!}}List of ''Star Wars'' cast members}}
{{divcol|3}}
[[File:Star Wars - The Force Awakens cast by Gage Skidmore.jpg|thumb|The cast of ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' at the 2015 [[San Diego Comic-Con|San Diego Comic Con]]]]
<!--DO NOT STATE ANYTHING ABOUT THE CHARACTERS BASED ON WHAT APPEARED IN THE FIRST TRAILER! DOING SO IS WP:OR. WE MUST WAIT UNTIL A RELIABLE SOURCE PUBLISHES CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS. An example of why you can't take a visual image for descriptions: Han and Luke dressed in disguise as Stormtroopers in the Original Trilogy. If we just saw that, and said they were Stormtroopers in the film, would be incorrect. The same goes for this trailer! -->
<!--Please do NOT change the order of the cast below. It is featured in the following order/paragraphs: First is returning actors/character that appear, followed by returning actors as consultants and then returning actors/characters in voice roles. The second paragraph is new, named characters that appear, with the final paragraph for cameo and minor, unnamed roles or voices. Thank you. -->
* [[John Boyega]] as Finn<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Daisy Ridley]] as Rey<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Adam Driver]] as Kylo Ren<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Oscar Isaac]] as Poe Dameron<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Andy Serkis]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Domhnall Gleeson]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Max von Sydow]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Harrison Ford]] as [[Han Solo]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Carrie Fisher]] as [[Princess Leia|Leia Organa]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Mark Hamill]] as [[Luke Skywalker]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Anthony Daniels]] as [[C-3PO]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Peter Mayhew]] as [[Chewbacca]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Kenny Baker (English actor)|Kenny Baker]] as [[R2-D2]]<ref name="OfficialCast" />
* [[Lupita Nyong'o]]<ref name="OfficialCast2" />
* [[Gwendoline Christie]]<ref name="OfficialCast2" />
* Crystal Clarke<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-production-update|title = Star Wars Episode VII Production Update|work = StarWars.com|date = July 6, 2014|accessdate = July 6, 2014}}</ref>
* Pip Andersen<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-production-update|title = Star Wars Episode VII Production Update|work = StarWars.com|date = July 6, 2014|accessdate = July 6, 2014}}</ref>
* [[Christina Chong]]<ref>{{cite web|url = http://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-episode-vii-casts-newcomer-christina-chong-1201264204/|title = 'Star Wars Episode VII' Casts Newcomer Christna Chong|last = Kroll|first = Justin|work = Variety|date = July 17, 2014|accessdate = July 17, 2014}}</ref>
* Miltos Yerolemou<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-29019238|title = Game of Thrones swordsman joins Star Wars film|last = Mzimba|first = Lizo|work = BBC News|date = September 1, 2014|accessdate = September 1, 2014}}</ref>
* [[Greg Grunberg]]<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.slashfilm.com/greg-grunberg-in-star-wars-jj-abrams/|title = 'Star Wars Episode 7' Adds a J.J. Abrams Regular|last = Han|first = Angie|work = Slashfilm|date = September 12, 2014|accessdate = September 12, 2014}}</ref>
* [[Warwick Davis]]<ref>{{cite web|url = http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/warwick-davis-aka-wicket-returns-for-star-wars-episode-7-20141016|title = Warwick Davis aka Wicket Returns For 'Star Wars: Episode 7'|last = Jagernauth|first = Kevin|work = The Playlist|date = October 16, 2014|accessdate = October 16, 2014}}</ref>
* Billie Lourd<ref name="Lourd">{{cite web|url = http://vegasseven.com/2014/11/11/debbie-reynolds-one-last-song-in-the-rain/|title = Debbie Reynolds Gives a Family-Filled Curtain Call, Vegas Style|last = Rodgers|first = Lisa|work = Vegas Seven|date = November 11, 2014|accessdate = November 15, 2014}}</ref>, Carrie Fisher's daughter
{{div col end}}


* [[Harrison Ford]] as [[Han Solo]]: A smuggler and captain of the ''Millennium Falcon''<ref name="CastFord1" /><ref name="CastFord2" />
== Production ==
* [[Mark Hamill]] as [[Luke Skywalker]]: The last [[Jedi]], who has gone into hiding<ref name="CastHamill1" /><ref name="CastHamill2" />
*[[Carrie Fisher]] as [[Princess Leia|General Leia Organa]]: A leader of the Resistance<ref name="CastFisher1" /><ref name="CastFisher2" />
* [[Adam Driver]] as [[Kylo Ren]]: A leader of the Knights of Ren and a warlord of the First Order, who is the son of Han and Leia<ref name="CastDriver1" /><ref name="CastDriver2" /><ref name="CastDriver3" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Shanfeld |first=Ethan |date=December 1, 2023 |title=Adam Driver Reveals the 'Star Wars' Scene He'll Never Live Down: 'Somebody Reminds Me About That Every Day' |url=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/adam-driver-star-wars-kylo-ren-kill-han-solo-1235816619/?cx_testId=48&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=2#cxrecs_s |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202103038/https://variety.com/2023/film/news/adam-driver-star-wars-kylo-ren-kill-han-solo-1235816619/?cx_testId=48&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=2#cxrecs_s |archive-date=December 2, 2023 |access-date=December 2, 2023 |publisher=Variety}}</ref>
* [[Daisy Ridley]] as [[Rey (Star Wars)|Rey]]: A Force-sensitive scavenger<ref name="LATLastJedi" />
** [[Cailey Fleming]] as young Rey<ref name="BFI" />
* [[John Boyega]] as [[Finn (Star Wars)|Finn]]: A reformed First Order [[Stormtrooper (Star Wars)|stormtrooper]]<ref name="LATLastJedi" />
* [[Oscar Isaac]] as [[Poe Dameron]]: A high-ranking [[X-wing fighter]] pilot of the Resistance<ref name="LATLastJedi" /><ref name="RadioTimesTROS" />
* [[Lupita Nyong'o]] as [[Maz Kanata]]: A centuries-old and perceptive alien who owns a castle on the peaceful forest planet Takodana<ref name="CastNyongo1" /><ref name="CastNyongo2" />
* [[Andy Serkis]] as [[Supreme Leader Snoke]]: An enigmatic, genetically artificial leader of the First Order<ref name="LATLastJedi" /><ref name="CastSerkis" />
* [[Domhnall Gleeson]] as [[General Hux]]: The commander of the First Order's Starkiller Base<ref name="LATLastJedi" />
* [[Anthony Daniels]] as [[C-3PO]]: A humanoid protocol droid<ref name="CastDaniels" />
* [[Peter Mayhew]] as [[Chewbacca]]: Han's loyal [[Wookiee]] friend and co-pilot<ref name="CastMayhew1" /><ref name="CastMayhew2" />
** [[Joonas Suotamo]] and [[Ian Whyte (actor)|Ian Whyte]] served as body doubles for Mayhew as he suffered from health problems<ref name="CastSuotamo" /><ref name="CastWhyte" />
*[[Max von Sydow]] as [[Lor San Tekka]]: A galactic explorer searching for Luke Skywalker<ref name="CastVonSydow1" /><ref name="CastVonSydow2" />


[[Timothy D. Rose|Tim Rose]] and [[Mike Quinn (puppeteer)|Mike Quinn]] reprise their respective roles as [[Admiral Ackbar]] and [[Nien Nunb]] from ''Return of the Jedi'', with [[Erik Bauersfeld]] and [[Kipsang Rotich]] returning their respective voices.<ref name="BFI">{{cite web |url=https://www2.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/568f1ba214607 |title=Star Wars Episode VII The Force Awakens |publisher=[[British Film Institute]] |access-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021190327/https://www2.bfi.org.uk/films-tv-people/568f1ba214607 |archive-date=October 21, 2020 |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Kenny Baker (English actor)|Kenny Baker]], originally announced as part of the cast, was credited as "consultant" for [[R2-D2]],<ref name="OfficialCast" /><ref name="BFI" /> with [[Jimmy Vee]] performing some of the work for R2-D2.<ref name="VeeR2D2">{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2017/film/news/star-wars-last-jedi-r2-d2-jimmy-vee-kenny-baker-1201987961/ |title='Star Wars': R2-D2 Role to Be Filled by Jimmy Vee in 'The Last Jedi' |last=McNary |first=Dave |author-link=Dave McNary |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=February 14, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170620190059/https://variety.com/2017/film/news/star-wars-last-jedi-r2-d2-jimmy-vee-kenny-baker-1201987961/ |archive-date=June 20, 2017 |access-date=February 15, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Ewan McGregor]] has an uncredited vocal cameo as [[Obi-Wan Kenobi]] in Rey's vision sequence, while archival audio of [[Frank Oz]] and [[Alec Guinness]] as [[Yoda]] and Kenobi, respectively, are also used in the same scene; Oz recorded new dialogue for the film, but it was replaced with preexisting audio from ''[[The Empire Strikes Back]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2015/12/20/jj-abrams-reveals-obi-wan-and-yoda-are-star-wars-force-awakens |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |title=Obi-Wan and Yoda are secretly in Star Wars: The Force Awakens |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221083404/http://www.ew.com/article/2015/12/20/jj-abrams-reveals-obi-wan-and-yoda-are-star-wars-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008 TV series)|Star Wars: The Clone Wars]]'' voice actor [[James Arnold Taylor]], who has voiced Obi-Wan Kenobi in different ''Star Wars'' media, originally recorded Kenobi's dialogue, but his recordings were replaced with McGregor's.<ref name="RedubbedDialogue">{{Cite tweet |user=JATactor |number=678299784621350912 |title=@t_betts94 yes, it was me originally but they replaced my version with Ewan. I guess if I'm gonna be replaced it should be him! 😀 |url=https://twitter.com/jatactor/status/678299784621350912 |date=December 19, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220406152844/https://twitter.com/jatactor/status/678299784621350912 |archive-date=April 6, 2022 |via=[[Twitter]]}}</ref>

[[Gwendoline Christie]] portrays [[Captain Phasma]], the commander of the First Order's legions of stormtroopers.<ref name="OfficialCast2" /><ref>{{cite web |last=Petty |first=Jared |url=https://ign.com/articles/2015/05/04/star-wars-gwendoline-christie-revealed-as-captain-phasma |title=Game of Thrones' Gwendoline Christie Revealed as Star Wars' Chrome Trooper Captain Phasma |website=[[IGN]] |date=May 4, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2016 |archive-date=September 4, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904010056/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/05/04/star-wars-gwendoline-christie-revealed-as-captain-phasma |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Dave Chapman (actor)|Dave Chapman]] and Brian Herring served as puppeteers for [[BB-8]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.starwars.com/news/droid-dreams-how-neal-scanlan-and-the-star-wars-the-force-awakens-team-brought-bb-8-to-life |title=Droid Dreams: How Neal Scanlan and the ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' Team Brought BB-8 to Life |first=Dan |last=Brooks |publisher=[[StarWars.com]] |date=August 26, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=July 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180702020610/https://www.starwars.com/news/droid-dreams-how-neal-scanlan-and-the-star-wars-the-force-awakens-team-brought-bb-8-to-life |url-status=live}}</ref> with [[Bill Hader]] and [[Ben Schwartz]] credited as "Vocal Consultants".<ref>{{Cite web |last=McKenzie |first=Joi-Marie |date=December 17, 2015 |title=Bill Hader and Ben Schwartz Are the Unlikely Voices Behind BB-8 in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/bill-hader-ben-schwartz-voices-bb-star-wars/story?id=35818538 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211113073723/https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/bill-hader-ben-schwartz-voices-bb-star-wars/story?id=35818538 |archive-date=November 13, 2021 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |website=[[ABC News (United States)|ABC News]]}}</ref> [[Ken Leung]] appears as Statura, an admiral in the Resistance.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418163_gallery-501347348-greg-grunberg-125664119-ken-leung |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: ''Lost'' Meets ''Star Wars'' |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225546/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418163_gallery-501347348-greg-grunberg-125664119-ken-leung |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Simon Pegg]] appears as Unkar Plutt, the Junk parts dealer on Jakku.<ref name="GleesonAndPegg" /><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418183_gallery-star-wars-force-awakens-2015-simon-pegg |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Simon Pegg |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225604/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418183_gallery-star-wars-force-awakens-2015-simon-pegg |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Greg Grunberg]] plays [[Snap Wexley|Temmin "Snap" Wexley]], an X-wing pilot.<ref>{{cite web |title=Databank: Snap Wexley |url=https://www.starwars.com/databank/snap-wexley |access-date=December 26, 2015 |publisher=[[StarWars.com]] |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220223538/http://www.starwars.com/databank/snap-wexley |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Anderson |first1=Tre'vell |title=J.J. Abrams' good luck charm Greg Grunberg reveals his 'Force Awakens' character Snap Wexley |url=https://latimes.com/entertainment/herocomplex/la-et-hc-greg-grunberg-snap-wexley-star-wars-force-awakens-20151215-story.html |access-date=December 16, 2015 |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=December 16, 2015 |archive-date=December 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151217011934/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/herocomplex/la-et-hc-greg-grunberg-snap-wexley-star-wars-force-awakens-20151215-story.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> [[Kiran Shah]] plays Teedo, a scavenger on Jakku who rides a semi-mechanical Luggabeast.<ref name="BFI" /><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.starwars.com/databank/teedo |title=Databank: Teedo |publisher=[[StarWars.com]] |access-date=September 6, 2015 |archive-date=September 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906221609/http://www.starwars.com/databank/teedo |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Jessica Henwick]] appears as [[Jessika Pava|Jess "Testor" Pava]] or Jess Testor, an X-wing pilot.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.starwars.com/databank/jess-pava |title=Jess Pava |publisher=[[StarWars.com]] |date=November 26, 2014 |access-date=May 29, 2016 |archive-date=May 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160515031944/http://www.starwars.com/databank/jess-pava |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://comicbook.com/2014/11/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-adds-jessica-henwick-to-cast/ |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens Adds Jessica Henwick To Cast |publisher=[[ComicBook.com]] |last=Lovett |first=Jamie |date=November 26, 2014 |access-date=December 18, 2014 |archive-date=December 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141208171021/http://comicbook.com/2014/11/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-adds-jessica-henwick-to-cast/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=13 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Cameos You Might Have Missed |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/2690893/star-wars-the-force-awakens-cameos |publisher=[[MTV]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108115228/http://www.mtv.com/news/2690893/star-wars-the-force-awakens-cameos/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Brian Vernel]] appears as Bala-Tik, the leader of the Guavian Death Gang.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Trumbore |first1=Dave |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': All the Cameos You Might Have Missed |url=https://collider.com/star-wars-the-force-awakens-cameos |publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=January 1, 2016 |date=December 17, 2015 |archive-date=January 2, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160102180245/http://collider.com/star-wars-the-force-awakens-cameos/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Yayan Ruhian]] and [[Iko Uwais]] appear as Tasu Leech and Razoo Qin-Fee, members of the Kanjiklub Gang, a criminal organization.<ref name="BFI" /> [[Warwick Davis]] appears as Wollivan, a tavern-dweller in Maz Kanata's castle.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/oct/17/warwick-davis-to-feel-the-force-of-star-wars-episode-7 |title=Warwick Davis to feel the force of Star Wars: Episode 7 |last=Child |first=Ben |website=[[The Guardian]] |date=October 17, 2014 |access-date=January 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130094344/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/oct/17/warwick-davis-to-feel-the-force-of-star-wars-episode-7 |archive-date=January 30, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/740447_warwick-davisjpg |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Ewok No More |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220230519/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/740447_warwick-davisjpg |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Anna Brewster]] appears as [[Bazine Netal]], a First Order spy, also at Maz Kanata's castle.<ref name="BFI" /> [[Hannah John-Kamen]] appears as a First Order officer.<ref name="BFI" /> [[Thomas Brodie-Sangster]] and [[Kate Fleetwood]] play First Order Petty Officers, Thanisson and Unamo, respectively.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418173_gallery-thomas-brodie-sangster-frame-fromeither-maze-runner |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Newt Joins The Dark Side |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225557/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418173_gallery-thomas-brodie-sangster-frame-fromeither-maze-runner |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://dorksideoftheforce.com/2015/10/12/new-mysterious-cast-member-for-the-force-awakens-has-surfaced |title=New mysterious cast member for The Force Awakens has surfaced |last=Harrid |first=David |website=[[FanSided|Dork Side of the Force]] |date=October 12, 2015 |access-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-date=January 31, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131041735/http://dorksideoftheforce.com/2015/10/12/new-mysterious-cast-member-for-the-force-awakens-has-surfaced/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Billie Lourd]], daughter of Carrie Fisher, appears as [[Connix]], a lieutenant in the Resistance.<ref name="Lourd">{{cite web |url=http://vegasseven.com/2014/11/11/debbie-reynolds-one-last-song-in-the-rain |title=Debbie Reynolds Gives a Family-Filled Curtain Call, Vegas Style |last=Rodgers |first=Lisa |work=Vegas Seven |date=November 11, 2014 |access-date=November 15, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141115035440/http://vegasseven.com/2014/11/11/debbie-reynolds-one-last-song-in-the-rain/ |archive-date=November 15, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/even-more-cameos-and-secrets-star-wars-force-awakens/2418123_all-crops-gallery-star-wars-vii-force-awakens-2015-billie-lourde |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Friend of the General |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221183433/http://www.ew.com/gallery/even-more-cameos-and-secrets-star-wars-force-awakens/2418123_all-crops-gallery-star-wars-vii-force-awakens-2015-billie-lourde |url-status=dead}}</ref> Members of the Resistance include [[Emun Elliott]] as Brance<ref>{{cite web |url=https://gamesradar.com/well-known-actors-bit-parts-star-wars-force-awakens |title=The famous actors you probably missed in Star Wars: The Force Awakens |first=Rosie |last=Fletcher |work=[[GamesRadar+]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315130638/http://www.gamesradar.com/well-known-actors-bit-parts-star-wars-force-awakens/ |url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Maisie Richardson-Sellers]] as Korr Sella<ref>{{cite web |title=Maisie Richardson-Sellers confirms Star Wars The Force Awakens role |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/star-wars/11301933/Maisie-Richardson-Sellers-confirms-Star-Wars-The-Force-Awakens-role.html |last=Vincent |first=Alice |date=December 18, 2014 |access-date=December 18, 2014 |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |location=UK |archive-date=December 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219103646/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/star-wars/11301933/Maisie-Richardson-Sellers-confirms-Star-Wars-The-Force-Awakens-role.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> while [[Harriet Walter]] appears as Kalonia, the doctor who tends to Chewbacca.<ref>{{cite web |first=Jason |last=Ward |url=http://makingstarwars.net/2015/12/christopher-lees-niece-dame-harriet-mary-walter-cast-in-star-wars-the-force-awakens |title=Harriet Walter cast in Star Wars: The Force Awakens? |website=MakingStarWars.net |date=December 6, 2015 |access-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-date=March 19, 2016 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20160319183905/http://makingstarwars.net/2015/12/christopher-lees-niece-dame-harriet-mary-walter-cast-in-star-wars-the-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="DailyBeastCast">{{cite web |url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/12/19/how-to-spot-all-the-star-wars-the-force-awakens-cameos-from-daniel-craig-to-radiohead.html |title=How to Spot All the 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Cameos, From Daniel Craig to Yoda |work=[[The Daily Beast]] |date=December 19, 2015 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221200937/http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/12/19/how-to-spot-all-the-star-wars-the-force-awakens-cameos-from-daniel-craig-to-radiohead.html |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Mark Stanley]] appears as a Knight of Ren.<ref name="DailyBeastCast" /> [[Sebastian Armesto]] portrays Lieutenant Mitaka and [[Pip Torrens]] portrays Colonel Kaplan, both serving the First Order.<ref name="BFI" />

[[Daniel Craig]], [[Michael Giacchino]], and [[Nigel Godrich]] cameo as stormtroopers.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2015/12/17/daniel-craig-makes-cameo-star-wars-force-awakens |title=Daniel Craig's Star Wars: The Force Awakens cameo revealed |first=Chris |last=Lee |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 17, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218005736/http://www.ew.com/article/2015/12/17/daniel-craig-makes-cameo-star-wars-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418178_gallery-501401198-michael-giacchino-493362428-nigel-godrich |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Musical Troopers |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225603/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418178_gallery-501401198-michael-giacchino-493362428-nigel-godrich |url-status=dead}}</ref> Abrams' assistant, Morgan Dameron, appears as a Resistance officer,<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418138_gallery-star-wars-force-awakens-poe-dameron-actor-oscar-isaac-jj-abrams-assistant-morgan |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: The Real Dameron |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225519/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418138_gallery-star-wars-force-awakens-poe-dameron-actor-oscar-isaac-jj-abrams-assistant-morgan |url-status=dead}}</ref> while his father, [[Gerald W. Abrams]], appears as Captain Cypress.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418143_gallery-ap885496303379-gerald-w-abrams-and-jj-abrams-seen-13th-annual-ves-awards-held-beverly |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Join Me, Father... |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225526/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418143_gallery-ap885496303379-gerald-w-abrams-and-jj-abrams-seen-13th-annual-ves-awards-held-beverly |url-status=dead}}</ref> Dialect coach [[Andrew Jack (dialect coach)|Andrew Jack]] portrays Resistance Major Caluan Ematt.<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 4, 2020 |title=Covid 19 coronavirus: Chris Hemsworth, Gabrielle Rogers mourn Star Wars actor Andrew Jack |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/covid-19-coronavirus-chris-hemsworth-gabrielle-rogers-mourn-star-wars-actor-andrew-jack/KW6FN6N33Y2MUTBBNA4N4EEWUY/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211119001324/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/covid-19-coronavirus-chris-hemsworth-gabrielle-rogers-mourn-star-wars-actor-andrew-jack/KW6FN6N33Y2MUTBBNA4N4EEWUY/ |archive-date=November 19, 2021 |access-date=November 19, 2021 |website=[[The New Zealand Herald]]}}</ref> Additionally, [[Crystal Clarke]], Pip Andersen,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-production-update |title=Star Wars Episode VII Production Update |publisher=[[StarWars.com]] |date=July 6, 2014 |access-date=July 6, 2014 |archive-date=July 6, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140706204919/http://www.starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-production-update |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Christina Chong]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-episode-vii-casts-newcomer-christina-chong-1201264204/ |title='Star Wars Episode VII' Casts Newcomer Christna Chong |last=Kroll |first=Justin |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=July 17, 2014 |access-date=July 17, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140719064034/http://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-episode-vii-casts-newcomer-christina-chong-1201264204/ |archive-date=July 19, 2014 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> [[Miltos Yerolemou]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-29019238 |title=Game of Thrones swordsman joins Star Wars film |last=Mzimba |first=Lizo |publisher=[[BBC News]] |date=September 1, 2014 |access-date=September 1, 2014 |archive-date=September 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140902154002/http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-29019238 |url-status=live}}</ref> Amybeth Hargreaves,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://comicbook.com/2015/01/18/star-wars-the-force-awakens-to-introduce-female-stormtrooper/ |title=Star Wars The Force Awakens To Introduce Female Stormtrooper |last=Upkins |first=Dennis |publisher=[[ComicBook.com]] |date=January 18, 2015 |access-date=January 18, 2015 |archive-date=January 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150120224903/http://comicbook.com/2015/01/18/star-wars-the-force-awakens-to-introduce-female-stormtrooper |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> [[Leanne Best]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://uk.yahoo.com/movies/star-wars-7-news-woman-in-black-2s-leanne-best-108645128366.html |title=Star Wars 7 News: Woman In Black 2's Leanne Best Outed As Castmember |publisher=[[Yahoo!]] |location=UK |last=Butler |first=Tom |date=January 20, 2015 |access-date=January 28, 2015 |archive-date=January 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150126103234/https://uk.yahoo.com/movies/star-wars-7-news-woman-in-black-2s-leanne-best-108645128366.html |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Judah Friedlander]],<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418153_gallery-483415833-judah-friedlander-star-wars-force-awakens-2015 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: Galactic Barstools |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225536/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418153_gallery-483415833-judah-friedlander-star-wars-force-awakens-2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and [[Kevin Smith]] appear in minor roles.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418148_gallery-150657865-kevin-smith-attends-star-wars-celebration-v-orange-county-convention-center |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': A collection of cameos and Easter eggs: {{em|The}} Kevin Smith |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220225528/http://www.ew.com/gallery/star-wars-easter-eggs-gallery/2418148_gallery-150657865-kevin-smith-attends-star-wars-celebration-v-orange-county-convention-center |url-status=dead}}</ref> Riot control stormtrooper [[FN-2199]], who calls Finn a traitor during the battle on [[Takodana]], was portrayed by stunt performer [[Liang Yang]] and voiced by sound editor [[David Acord]].<ref name="FN-2199">{{Cite web |last=McMillan |first=Graeme |date=January 7, 2016 |title=Lucasfilm Gives a Breakout 'Force Awakens' Stormtrooper His Own Name |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-force-awakens-lucasfilm-852975/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211106135255/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-force-awakens-lucasfilm-852975/ |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2021 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref>

== Production ==
=== Development ===
=== Development ===
''Star Wars'' creator [[George Lucas]] discussed ideas for a [[Star Wars sequel trilogy|sequel trilogy]] several times after the conclusion of the [[Star Wars original trilogy|original trilogy]], but denied any intent to make it.<ref name="LATimes2008">{{cite web |url=https://latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-lucas7-2008may07,0,7983947.story |title=George Lucas: 'Star Wars' won't go beyond Darth Vader |last=Boucher |first=Geoff |date=May 7, 2008 |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |access-date=September 9, 2012 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023143206/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-lucas7-2008may07,0,7983947.story |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> A seventh entry in the "[[Skywalker Saga]]", a nine-part ''Star Wars'' series,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doña |first=Cathy |date=December 16, 2015 |title=Spotted: Kapuso stars at the premiere of ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/news/20431/spotted-kapuso-stars-at-the-premiere-of-star-wars-the-force-awakens/story?amp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220419060327/https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/news/20431/spotted-kapuso-stars-at-the-premiere-of-star-wars-the-force-awakens/story?amp |archive-date=April 19, 2022 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=[[GMA Network]]}}</ref><ref name="NYTTROS">{{Cite web |last=Cohn |first=Gabe |date=September 2, 2019 |title=What We Know About ''Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker'' |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/02/movies/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker.html |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190902091022/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/02/movies/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker.html |archive-date=September 2, 2019 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref> began development shortly after Lucas sold his production company [[Lucasfilm]] to [[the Walt Disney Company]] in October 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Graser |first=Marc |date=October 30, 2012 |title=Disney Buys LucasFilm, New ''Star Wars'' Planned |url=https://variety.com/2012/film/news/disney-buys-lucasfilm-new-star-wars-planned-1118061434/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130403074009/https://variety.com/2012/film/news/disney-buys-lucasfilm-new-star-wars-planned-1118061434/ |archive-date=April 3, 2013 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Masters |first1=Kim |last2=Kit |first2=Borys |date=October 30, 2012 |title=What a New ''Star Wars'' Movie Might Look Like (Analysis) |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/what-a-new-star-wars-384515/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507174543/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/what-a-new-star-wars-384515/ |archive-date=May 7, 2021 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Enk |first=Bryan |date=October 30, 2012 |title=What The?! New ''Star Wars'' Movie In the Works? |url=https://www.mtv.com/news/yav1mj/disney-lucasfilm-star-wars |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240325101845/https://www.mtv.com/news/yav1mj/disney-lucasfilm-star-wars |archive-date=March 25, 2024 |access-date=March 25, 2024 |website=[[MTV News]]}}</ref> Speaking alongside Lucasfilm's new president, [[Kathleen Kennedy (producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]], Lucas said: "I always said I wasn't going to do any more and that's true, because I'm not going to do any more, but that doesn't mean I'm unwilling to turn it over to Kathy to do more."<ref>{{cite web |last1=Nakashima |first1=Ryan |title=Disney to make new 'Star Wars' films, buy Lucas co |url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/disney-star-wars-films-buy-210830937.html |publisher=[[Yahoo! Finance]] |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121030233227/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/disney-star-wars-films-buy-210830937.html |archive-date=October 30, 2012 |url-status=live |location=Los Angeles, California |date=October 30, 2012}}</ref>
{{see also|Star Wars sequel trilogy}}
[[George Lucas]] turned over the [[Film treatment|story treatment]] for ''Episodes VII'', ''VIII'' and ''IX'' to Disney chairman [[Bob Iger]] when Lucasfilm was sold to Disney in October 2012.<ref name="BloombergMar2013" /> The screenplay was written by [[Michael Arndt]].<ref>{{cite web|last = Brodesser-Akner|first = Claude|title = Update: Toy Story 3's Michael Arndt Confirmed As Star Wars: Episode VII Writer|url = http://www.vulture.com/2012/11/star-wars-episode-vii-may-have-found-its-writer.html|accessdate = May 23, 2014|newspaper = Vulture|date = November 8, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last = Kit|first = Borys|title = New 'Star Wars' Movie Has Treatment by 'Toy Story 3' Writer|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/new-star-wars-movie-has-387784|accessdate = May 23, 2014|newspaper = The Hollywood Reporter|date = November 8, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last = Kit|first = Borys|title = Lucasfilm Confirms Michael Arndt to Write 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/new-star-wars-movie-michael-388424|accessdate = October 24, 2013|newspaper = The Hollywood Reporter|date = November 9, 2012}}</ref> [[David Fincher]]<ref>{{cite news|author = Staff|url = http://www.totalfilm.com/news/david-fincher-discusses-meeting-disney-about-star-wars-episode-vii|title = David Fincher discusses meeting Disney about Star Wars: Episode VII|work = [[Total Film]]|date = September 29, 2014|accessdate = September 29, 2014}}</ref> and [[Brad Bird]] were approached as directors, but Bird was committed to ''[[Tomorrowland (film)|Tomorrowland]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title = Brad Bird on 'Incredibles' Sequel: 'I Would Probably Wanna Do That' (Q&A)|last = Bernardin|first = Marc|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/brad-bird-incredibles-sequel-i-523427|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = May 16, 2013|accessdate = June 12, 2014}}</ref> [[Guillermo del Toro]] was also considered, but was busy with his own projects.<ref>{{cite news|author = Kevin Jagernauth|url = http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/guillermo-del-toro-says-he-was-approached-for-star-wars-episode-7-would-have-loved-to-see-brad-bird-direct-the-sequel-20130107|title = Guillermo Del Toro Says He Was Approached For 'Star Wars: Episode 7,' Would Have Loved To See Brad Bird Direct The Sequel|publisher = [[Indiewire]]|date = July 1, 2013|accessdate = September 5, 2014}}</ref>


As creative consultant on the film, Lucas attended early story meetings and advised on the details of the [[Star Wars expanded universe|''Star Wars'' universe]].<ref name="BloombergMar2013" /> Among the materials he turned over to the production team were his rough [[Film treatment|story treatments]] for ''Episodes VII–IX'', which Lucas requested be read only by Kennedy, [[Bob Iger]], [[Alan F. Horn]], and [[Kevin A. Mayer]].<ref name="BloombergMar2013" /> Lucas later said Disney had discarded his story ideas and that he had no further involvement with the film.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chitwood |first=Adam |title=George Lucas Says His Treatments for the New 'Star Wars' Films Were Discarded |date=January 21, 2015 |url=https://collider.com/george-lucas-new-star-wars-movies-treatments |publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=January 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150127051200/http://collider.com/george-lucas-new-star-wars-movies-treatments/ |archive-date=January 27, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Lucas_treatment_unused">{{cite web |url=https://cinemablend.com/new/How-George-Lucas-Star-Wars-7-Ideas-Were-Used-By-Disney-69271.html |title=How George Lucas' Star Wars 7 Ideas Were Used By Disney |access-date=January 20, 2015 |publisher=[[CinemaBlend]] |date=January 19, 2015 |first=Nick |last=Romano |format=Written coverage/Video interview |archive-date=January 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150121170747/http://www.cinemablend.com/new/How-George-Lucas-Star-Wars-7-Ideas-Were-Used-By-Disney-69271.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Star Wars Creator George Lucas Doesn't Know Force Awakens Story |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/star-wars-creator |website=[[/Film]] |date=January 16, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |archive-date=January 21, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121083725/http://www.slashfilm.com/star-wars-creator/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Lucas' son Jett told ''[[The Guardian]]'' that his father was "very torn" about having sold the rights to the franchise and that his father was "there to guide" but that "he wants to let it go and become its new generation".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/oct/09/star-wars-george-lucas-jj-abrams |title=Star Wars sequels: George Lucas 'constantly talking' to JJ Abrams |last=Child |first=Ben |date=October 9, 2013 |access-date=January 23, 2015 |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=UK |archive-date=October 10, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141010083951/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/oct/09/star-wars-george-lucas-jj-abrams |url-status=live}}</ref>
<nowiki> </nowiki>In January 2013, [[J. J. Abrams]] was announced as the director of ''Star Wars Episode VII'', with [[Lawrence Kasdan]] and [[Simon Kinberg]] as project consultants.<ref name="StarWarsComJan2013" /><ref>[http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?play=1&video=3000146094 "Disney Plans Stand-Alone 'Star Wars' Films"], ''CNBC'', February 5, 2013. Retrieved May 26, 2013.</ref> The production announced the exit of Arndt from the project on October 24, 2013 and Kasdan and Abrams took over script duties.<ref>{{cite news|last = Kit|first = Borys|title = Writer Michael Arndt Exits 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/writer-michael-arndt-exits-star-650671|accessdate = October 24, 2013|newspaper = The Hollywood Reporter|date = October 24, 2013}}</ref> Abrams cited time concerns over the change of writers.<ref>{{cite news|last = Patten|first = Dominic|title = J.J. Abrams: Taking Over ‘Star Wars’ Writing Duties With Lawrence Kasdan A Matter Of Time|url = http://www.deadline.com/2013/11/j-j-abrams-says-time-frame-of-new-star-wars-movie-was-why-he-lawrence-kasdan-took-over-writing-script/|accessdate = May 23, 2014|newspaper = Deadline|date = November 7, 2013}}</ref> Abrams expressed relief that the release date was announced for December 2015 instead of the previously discussed summer release.<ref>{{cite web|last = Sullivan|first = Kevin|title = J.J. Abrams Tells Us What Will Make ‘Star Wars’ ‘Infinitely Better’|url = http://www.mtv.com/news/1718092/jj-abrams-star-wars-episode-vii-infinitely-better/|accessdate = May 23, 2014|work = MTV|date = November 25, 2013}}</ref> He said that the key for the film would be for it to return to the roots of the first ''Star Wars ''film and be based more on emotion than explanation.<ref name="Parismatch">{{cite web|url = http://www.parismatch.com/Culture/Livres/J-J-Abrams-un-livre-et-des-etoiles-549747|title = J.J. ABRAMS UN LIVRE ET DES ÉTOILES|last = Micke|first = Sébastien|work = Paris Match|date = February 22, 2014|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref>


[[File:Kathleen Kennedy, J. J. Abrams, Lawrence Kasdan by Gage Skidmore (cropped).jpg|left|thumb|From left to right: producer [[Kathleen Kennedy (producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]], writer and director [[J. J. Abrams]], and writer [[Lawrence Kasdan]] speaking at the 2015 [[San Diego Comic-Con]]]]
As creative consultant on the film, Lucas' involvement includes attending story meetings; he told ''[[Bloomberg Businessweek]]: ''"I mostly say, 'You can't do this. You can do that.' You know, 'The cars don't have wheels. They fly with antigravity.' There's a million little pieces. Or I can say, 'He doesn’t have the power to do that, or he has to do this.' I know all that stuff."<ref name="BloombergMar2013" /> It was reported from George Lucas' son, Jett Lucas that George Lucas was "very torn" about selling the rights to the franchise, despite having hand-picked J.J. Abrams to direct. <ref>http://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/oct/09/star-wars-george-lucas-jj-abrams</ref>
''The Force Awakens''{{'}} first screenplay was written by [[Michael Arndt]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Brodesser-Akner |first=Claude |title=Update: Toy Story 3's Michael Arndt Confirmed As Star Wars: Episode VII Writer |url=https://www.vulture.com/2012/11/star-wars-episode-vii-may-have-found-its-writer.html |access-date=May 23, 2014 |work=[[Vulture (website)|Vulture]] |date=November 8, 2012 |archive-date=May 24, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140524024731/http://www.vulture.com/2012/11/star-wars-episode-vii-may-have-found-its-writer.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> At the time of his hiring, Arndt was also tapped to pen story treatments for the following installments.<ref>{{cite web |last=Schaffer |first=Sandy |url=https://screenrant.com/star-wars-episode-7-story-michael-arndt/ |title=''Star Wars: Episode 7'' Story Already Finished By ''Toy Story 3'' Writer [Updated] |date=November 9, 2012 |website=[[Screen Rant]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153815/https://screenrant.com/star-wars-episode-7-story-michael-arndt/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Arndt took part in a writers room with [[Simon Kinberg]], [[Lawrence Kasdan]], [[Pablo Hidalgo]], and Kiri Hart to discuss and plan the overall trilogy.<ref>{{cite web |last=Siegel |first=Tatianna |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/inside-star-wars-writers-room-846856/ |title=Inside the ''Star Wars'' Writers Room: Meet the 5 Architects of the Franchise |date=December 9, 2015 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153815/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/inside-star-wars-writers-room-846856/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Early drafts had [[Luke Skywalker]] appear midway through the film, but Arndt found that "every time Luke came in and entered the movie, he just took it over. Suddenly you didn't care about your main character anymore."<ref name="EWDec2015">{{cite magazine |first=Anthony |last=Breznican |author-link=Anthony Breznican |url=https://ew.com/article/2015/12/20/jj-abrams-answers-burning-question-about-r2-d2-star-wars-force-awakens |title=J.J. Abrams explains R2-D2's closing scene in Star Wars: The Force Awakens |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 30, 2015 |archive-date=January 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101010830/http://www.ew.com/article/2015/12/20/jj-abrams-answers-burning-question-about-r2-d2-star-wars-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref> The writers decided to use Luke as the film's [[MacGuffin]] and, as something that the protagonists needed to find, would not appear in person until the final scene.<ref name="EWDec2015" /> Arndt also developed some backstory elements for the returning characters from the original trilogy, such as how Leia was instrumental in rebuilding the Republic after the fall of the Empire before being discredited when it was publicly revealed that her biological father was Darth Vader (this would go on to become a central plot point in the canonical novel ''[[Star Wars: Bloodline]]'').{{sfn|Szostak|2019|p=151}}


Several directors were considered, including [[David Fincher]],<ref>{{cite news |author=Staff |url=http://www.totalfilm.com/news/david-fincher-discusses-meeting-disney-about-star-wars-episode-vii |title=David Fincher discusses meeting Disney about Star Wars: Episode VII |work=[[Total Film]] |date=September 29, 2014 |access-date=September 29, 2014 |archive-date=September 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140929171818/http://www.totalfilm.com/news/david-fincher-discusses-meeting-disney-about-star-wars-episode-vii |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Brad Bird]],<ref>{{cite web |title=Brad Bird on 'Incredibles' Sequel: 'I Would Probably Wanna Do That' (Q&A) |last=Bernardin |first=Marc |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/brad-bird-incredibles-sequel-i-523427 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=May 16, 2013 |access-date=June 12, 2014 |archive-date=July 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140720043847/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/brad-bird-incredibles-sequel-i-523427 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Jon Favreau]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://screenrant.com/star-wars-7-david-fincher-jon-favreau/ |title='Star Wars 7′: David Fincher, Jon Favreau Being Considered to Direct? |website=[[Screen Rant]] |date=November 30, 2012 |access-date=December 17, 2019 |archive-date=December 18, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218031950/https://screenrant.com/star-wars-7-david-fincher-jon-favreau/ |url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Guillermo del Toro]].<ref>{{cite news |first=Kevin |last=Jagernauth |url=http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/guillermo-del-toro-says-he-was-approached-for-star-wars-episode-7-would-have-loved-to-see-brad-bird-direct-the-sequel-20130107 |title=Guillermo Del Toro Says He Was Approached For 'Star Wars: Episode 7,' Would Have Loved To See Brad Bird Direct The Sequel |publisher=[[IndieWire]] |date=July 1, 2013 |access-date=September 5, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141017050618/http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/guillermo-del-toro-says-he-was-approached-for-star-wars-episode-7-would-have-loved-to-see-brad-bird-direct-the-sequel-20130107 |archive-date=October 17, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Bird was reportedly the "top choice" to helm the film, but his commitments to ''[[Tomorrowland (film)|Tomorrowland]]'' forced him to withdraw.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sciretta |first=Peter |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/537449/jurassic-world-star-wars/ |title=How Brad Bird Almost Helming ''Star Wars'' Resulted In Colin Trevorrow Directing ''Jurassic World'' |date=April 28, 2015 |website=Slash Film |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153815/https://www.slashfilm.com/537449/jurassic-world-star-wars/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Matthew Vaughn]] was an early candidate for the job, even dropping out of ''[[X-Men: Days of Future Past]]'' in favor for the film.<ref>{{cite web |last=Weintraub |first=Steve |url=https://collider.com/star-wars-episode-7-matthew-vaughn/ |title=Is Matthew Vaughn in Talks to Direct ''Star Wars: Episode VII''? |date=November 5, 2012 |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153820/https://collider.com/star-wars-episode-7-matthew-vaughn/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Colin Trevorrow]] was also under consideration by the studio, while [[Ben Affleck]] and [[Neill Blomkamp]] passed on the project.<ref>{{cite web |last=Dyce |first=Andrew |url=https://screenrant.com/star-wars-episode-7-colin-trevorrow-director-boba-fett/ |title=Director Colin Trevorrow Being Considered For ''Star Wars 7''? |date=November 6, 2012 |website=[[Screen Rant]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153815/https://screenrant.com/star-wars-episode-7-colin-trevorrow-director-boba-fett/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Jagernauth |first=Kevin |url=https://theplaylist.net/rumors-from-tatooine-colin-trevorrow-linked-to-star-wars-7-carrie-fisher-would-be-interested-to-return-20121107/ |title=Rumors From Tatooine: Colin Trevorrow Linked To ''Star Wars 7'', Carrie Fisher Would Be Interested To Return |date=November 7, 2012 |website=The Playlist |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=September 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907050540/https://theplaylist.net/rumors-from-tatooine-colin-trevorrow-linked-to-star-wars-7-carrie-fisher-would-be-interested-to-return-20121107/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=O'Connell |first=Sean |url=https://www.cinemablend.com/news/1527490/did-ben-affleck-almost-direct-a-star-wars-movie-heres-what-he-says |title=Did Ben Affleck Almost Direct A ''Star Wars'' Movie? Here's What He Says |date=June 24, 2016 |website=[[CinemaBlend]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153815/https://www.cinemablend.com/news/1527490/did-ben-affleck-almost-direct-a-star-wars-movie-heres-what-he-says |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Chitwood |first=Adam |url=https://collider.com/district-10-news-neill-blomkamp-star-wars/ |title=Neill Blomkamp Says He's Written an 18-Page Treatment for ''District 10''; Turned Down the Opportunity to Make a ''Star Wars'' Film |date=July 16, 2013 |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153826/https://collider.com/district-10-news-neill-blomkamp-star-wars/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After a suggestion by [[Steven Spielberg]] to Kennedy,<ref>{{cite news |last1=de Moraes |first1=Lisa |title=Steven Spielberg Recommended J.J. Abrams For 'Star Wars' Says '60 Minutes' |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-jj-abrams-steven-spielberg-recommended-1201664881/ |access-date=January 16, 2016 |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 10, 2015 |archive-date=January 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115061043/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-jj-abrams-steven-spielberg-recommended-1201664881/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[J. J. Abrams]] was named director in January 2013,<ref name="EpisodeVIINamedDirector">{{Cite web |first=Amelia |last=Hill |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/jan/27/jj-abrams-star-wars-director |title=JJ Abrams named Star Wars VII director |date=January 27, 2013 |website=[[The Guardian]] |access-date=March 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331101532/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/jan/27/jj-abrams-star-wars-director |archive-date=March 31, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> with Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg as project consultants.<ref name="KasdanKinbergConsultants">{{Cite web |first=Erica |last=Orden |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-SEB-73426 |title=In Addition to Sequels, Disney Developing Films Based on 'Star Wars' Characters |date=February 5, 2013 |website=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |access-date=March 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331101621/https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-SEB-73426 |archive-date=March 31, 2021 |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Kasdan worked to convince Abrams to direct the film after the filmmaker initially rejected the offer.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Rogers |first=Adam |url=https://www.wired.com/2015/11/lawrence-kasdan-qa/ |title=''Star Wars'' Greatest Screenwriter Wrote All Your Other Favorite Movies Too |date=November 18, 2015 |magazine=Wired |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153815/https://www.wired.com/2015/11/lawrence-kasdan-qa/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Chitwood |first=Adam |url=https://collider.com/why-j-j-abrams-turned-down-star-wars-7-force-awakens/#:~:text=Speaking%20with%20Howard%20Stern%20on,I'd%20done%20Star%20Trek. |title=''Star Wars'': J.J. Abrams Explains Why He Turned Down, Then Said "Yes" to ''Force Awakens'' |date=November 30, 2015 |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617153826/https://collider.com/why-j-j-abrams-turned-down-star-wars-7-force-awakens/#:~:text=Speaking%20with%20Howard%20Stern%20on,I'd%20done%20Star%20Trek. |url-status=live }}</ref> Arndt worked on the script for eight months, but said he needed 18 more, which was more time than Disney or Abrams could give him.<ref name="Hiatt">{{cite magazine |last=Hiatt |first=Brian |title='Star Wars' Strikes Back: Behind the Scenes of the Biggest Movie of the Year |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/features/star-wars-strikes-back-behind-the-scenes-of-the-biggest-movie-of-the-year-20151202 |access-date=December 22, 2015 |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |date=December 2, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160213015239/http://www.rollingstone.com/movies/features/star-wars-strikes-back-behind-the-scenes-of-the-biggest-movie-of-the-year-20151202 |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> The production announced Arndt's exit from the project on October 24, 2013. That same day, Kasdan and Abrams took over script duties,<ref>{{cite news |last=Kit |first=Borys |title=Writer Michael Arndt Exits 'Star Wars: Episode VII' |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/writer-michael-arndt-exits-star-650671 |access-date=October 24, 2013 |newspaper=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 24, 2013 |archive-date=October 26, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131026044912/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/writer-michael-arndt-exits-star-650671 |url-status=live}}</ref> both of whom planned the story while walking in [[Santa Monica, California]], New York City, Paris, and London. The first draft was completed in six weeks.<ref>{{cite web |title=Star Wars screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan on the past, present and future of 'Star Wars' |url=https://latimes.com/entertainment/herocomplex/la-ca-hc-star-wars-lawrence-kasdan-20151206-story.html |first=Josh |last=Rottenberg |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=December 3, 2015 |access-date=December 11, 2015 |archive-date=December 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151211082129/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/herocomplex/la-ca-hc-star-wars-lawrence-kasdan-20151206-story.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> Abrams said the key to the film was that it return to the roots of the first ''Star Wars'' films and be based more on emotion than explanation.<ref name="Parismatch">{{cite web |url=http://www.parismatch.com/Culture/Livres/J-J-Abrams-un-livre-et-des-etoiles-549747 |title=J.J. Abrams un livre et des étoiles |trans-title=J.J. Abrams a book and stars |last=Micke |first=Sébastien |work=[[Paris Match]] |language=French |date=February 22, 2014 |access-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140523225915/http://www.parismatch.com/Culture/Livres/J-J-Abrams-un-livre-et-des-etoiles-549747 |url-status=live}}</ref> In January 2014, Abrams confirmed that the script was complete.<ref name="WrapScript">{{cite web |url=https://thewrap.com/j-j-abrams-says-star-wars-episode-vii-script-done-confirms-jesse-plemons-talks |last=Molloy |first=Tim |title=J.J. Abrams Says 'Star Wars Episode VII' Script Done, Confirms Jesse Plemons Talks |work=[[TheWrap]] |date=January 19, 2014 |access-date=January 19, 2014 |archive-date=January 21, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140121010208/http://www.thewrap.com/j-j-abrams-says-star-wars-episode-vii-script-done-confirms-jesse-plemons-talks/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2014, Lucasfilm clarified that ''Episodes VII–IX'' would not feature storylines from the ''Star Wars'' expanded universe, though other elements could be included, as with the TV series ''[[Star Wars Rebels]]''.<ref name="EUApril2014">{{cite web |url=https://ign.com/articles/2014/04/25/lucasfilm-clarifies-star-wars-expanded-universe |title=Lucasfilm Clarifies Star Wars Expanded Universe |last=Nicholson |first=Matt |date=April 25, 2014 |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=May 1, 2014 |archive-date=May 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502010126/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/04/25/lucasfilm-clarifies-star-wars-expanded-universe |url-status=live}}</ref>
In January 2014, Abrams confirmed that the script was complete.<ref name="WrapScript">{{cite web|url = http://www.thewrap.com/j-j-abrams-says-star-wars-episode-vii-script-done-confirms-jesse-plemons-talks|last = Molloy|first = Tim|title = J.J. Abrams Says 'Star Wars Episode VII' Script Done, Confirms Jesse Plemons Talks|work = The Wrap|date = January 19, 2014|accessdate = January 19, 2014}}</ref> In April 2014, Lucasfilm clarified that ''Episodes VII''–''IX'' will not feature any of the storylines from the [[Star Wars Expanded Universe|Expanded Universe]], though other elements could be included as with ''[[Star Wars Rebels]]''.<ref name="EUApril2014">{{cite web|url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/04/25/lucasfilm-clarifies-star-wars-expanded-universe|title = Lucasfilm Clarifies Star Wars Expanded Universe|last = Nicholson|first = Matt|publisher = IGN|date = April 25, 2014|accessdate = May 1, 2014}}</ref>


Abrams stated that he purposely withheld some plot elements from ''The Force Awakens'', such as Rey and Finn's last names and backgrounds. Kennedy admitted that "we haven't mapped out every single detail [of the sequel trilogy] yet", but said that Abrams was collaborating with ''[[The Last Jedi]]'' director [[Rian Johnson]], and that Johnson would work with ''[[The Rise of Skywalker]]''{{'}}s then-director [[Colin Trevorrow]] to ensure a smooth transition and that "everybody's got a say in how we move forward with this".<ref name="Variety7Dec2015">{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-finn-rey-solo-episode-8-9-backstory-force-awakens-spoilers-1201655284/ |title=Star Wars Actor John Boyega on Finn's Past: 'I've Got Some Conspiracy Theories' |last=Prudom |first=Laura |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=December 7, 2015 |access-date=December 31, 2015 |archive-date=December 31, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151231191059/http://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-finn-rey-solo-episode-8-9-backstory-force-awakens-spoilers-1201655284/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Daisy Ridley later recounted that J. J. Abrams had written drafts for episodes 8 and 9.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://screenrant.com/star-wars-8-9-jj-abrams-script/ |title=Daisy Ridley: J.J. Abrams Wrote Drafts For Star Wars 8 & 9 |website=[[Screen Rant]] |date=March 2018 |access-date=2020-12-03 |archive-date=2020-11-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112043747/https://screenrant.com/star-wars-8-9-jj-abrams-script/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Pre-production ===
In May 2013, it was confirmed that the production of ''Episode VII'' would take place in the United Kingdom.<ref name="StarWarsComUKMay2013">{{cite web|url = http://starwars.com/news/star_wars_feature_film_production_returns_to_the_uk.html|title = Star Wars Feature Film Production Returns to the U.K.|work = starwars.com|date = May 10, 2013|accessdate = May 25, 2013}}</ref> Representatives from Lucasfilm met with [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]] [[George Osborne]] to agree to produce ''Episode VII'' in the UK.<ref name="StarWarsComUKMay2013" /> Beginning in September 2013, production spaces at the [[Bad Robot Productions|Bad Robot]] facility were converted for shooting of ''Episode VII'' for the benefit of shooting a minor portion of the film in the United States.<ref>{{cite news|last = Abramian|first = Alexandria|title = Source: J. J. Abrams Building 'Star Wars' Postproduction Facility in L.A. (Exclusive)|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-j-j-abrams-625516|accessdate = March 19, 2014|newspaper = The Hollywood Reporter|date = September 11, 2013}}</ref>


A fictional language was developed for use in the film by [[YouTube]] star [[Sara Forsberg]], who created the [[viral video]] series "What Languages Sound Like To Foreigners"; Forsberg developed the language by studying various languages, such as Hindi and Gujarati.<ref name="forsberg">{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-sara-maria-forsberg-language-1201663521 |title='Star Wars': YouTube Star Creates New Language For Aliens |last=Rizzo |first=Carita |date=December 16, 2015 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=January 10, 2016 |archive-date=January 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160120084600/http://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-sara-maria-forsberg-language-1201663521/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
Costume designer [[Michael Kaplan (costume designer)|Michael Kaplan]], who worked with Abrams on his ''Star Trek'' films, will work on ''Episode VII''.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/05/19/star-trek-costume-designer-joins-star-wars-vii-crew|title = Star Trek Costume Designer Joins Star Wars VII Crew|last = Butler|first = Tom|date = May 19, 2013|accessdate = May 19, 2013}}</ref> Film editors [[Maryann Brandon]] and [[Mary Jo Markey]], also long-term collaborators with Abrams, have also been signed for ''Episode VII''.<ref>[http://www.studiodaily.com/2013/05/maryann-brandon-and-mary-jo-markey-on-cutting-star-trek-into-darkness/ "Maryann Brandon and Mary Jo Markey on Cutting Star Trek Into Darkness"], ''Studio Daily'', May 22, 2013. Retrieved May 26, 2013.</ref>


In November 2015, Lucas recorded an hour-long interview with [[CBS News]] reporter [[Charlie Rose]] in which he said Disney had not been "keen" to involve him and conceded: "If I get in there, I'm just going to cause trouble because they're not going to do what I want them to do, and I don't have the control to do that any more, and all it would do is just muck everything up."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://collider.com/george-lucas-star-wars-7-new-trilogy-consulting-split |title=Star Wars: George Lucas and Disney Disagreed on New Films |last=Goldberg |first=Matt |date=November 20, 2015 |publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=November 21, 2015 |archive-date=November 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121164050/http://collider.com/george-lucas-star-wars-7-new-trilogy-consulting-split/ |url-status=live}}</ref> He also said, "They wanted to do a retro movie. I don't like that. Every movie, I worked very hard to make them different&nbsp;[...] I made them completely different—different planets, different spaceships to make it new."<ref name="NYT-20151231">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/31/movies/george-lucas-criticizes-latest-star-wars-installment.html |title=George Lucas Criticizes Latest 'Star Wars' Installment |last=Stack |first=Liam |date=December 31, 2015 |work=[[The New York Times]] |access-date=December 31, 2015 |archive-date=January 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101052721/http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/31/movies/george-lucas-criticizes-latest-star-wars-installment.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/george-lucas-quips-he-sold-851545 |title=George Lucas Quips He Sold 'Star Wars' to 'White Slavers'; Criticizes 'Retro' Tone of New Film |last=Parker |first=Ryan |date=December 30, 2015 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=December 31, 2015 |archive-date=January 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101174354/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/george-lucas-quips-he-sold-851545 |url-status=live}}</ref> In early December 2015, Kathleen Kennedy told ''[[The Hollywood Reporter]]'' that Lucas had seen the movie and "liked it".<ref name="THR-20151204">{{cite news |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/george-lucas-attend-star-wars-845948 |title=George Lucas to Attend 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Premiere: 'He Really Liked It' (Exclusive) |last=Masters |first=Kim |date=December 31, 2015 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=September 15, 2016 |archive-date=October 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009082226/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/george-lucas-attend-star-wars-845948 |url-status=live}}</ref> In the same month, at the [[Kennedy Center Honors]], Lucas stated, "I think the fans are going to love it, It's very much the kind of movie they've been looking for."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vulture.com/2015/12/george-lucas-delivers-a-verdict-on-force-awakens.html# |title=George Lucas Delivered His Verdict on The Force Awakens |last=Chaney |first=Jen |date=December 7, 2015 |work=[[Vulture (website)|Vulture]] |access-date=September 15, 2016 |archive-date=December 8, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161208151754/http://www.vulture.com/2015/12/george-lucas-delivers-a-verdict-on-force-awakens.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> Abrams felt that, as the first in a new trilogy, the film "needed to take a couple of steps backwards into very familiar terrain" and use plot elements from previous ''Star Wars'' films.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/race/awards-chatter-podcast-jj-abrams-853171 |title='Awards Chatter' Podcast – J.J. Abrams ('Star Wars: The Force Awakens') |last=Feinberg |first=Scott |date=January 8, 2016 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=February 7, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206151347/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/race/awards-chatter-podcast-jj-abrams-853171 |url-status=live}}</ref>
In August 2013, it was announced that [[cinematographer]] [[Daniel Mindel]] will be shooting the film on [[35 mm film]] (specifically [[Eastman Kodak|Kodak]] [[Vision 3|5219]]).<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.thewrap.com/movies/column-post/jj-abrams-hires-familiar-cinematographer-shoot-star-wars-episode-vii-35mm-film-112771|title = J.J. Abrams Hires 'Star Trek' Cinematographer to Shoot 'Star Wars: Episode VII' on 35MM Film|author = Jeff Sneider|publisher = The Wrap|date = August 22, 2013|accessdate = August 23, 2013}}</ref> In October 2013, other crew members were confirmed, including sound designer [[Ben Burtt]], director of photography Daniel Mindel, production designers [[Rick Carter]] and Darren Gilford, costume designer Michael Kaplan, special effects supervisor [[Chris Corbould]], re-recording mixer [[Gary Rydstrom]], supervising sound editor [[Matthew Wood (sound editor)|Matthew Wood]], visual effects supervisor Roger Guyett, and executive producers Tommy Harper and Jason McGatlin.<ref>{{cite news|last = Olsen|first = Mark|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII': Lawrence Kasdan's big move|url = http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-lawrence-kasdan-jj-abrams-star-wars-episode-vii-20131024,0,7723323.story#axzz2jEHOv6Gr|accessdate = October 30, 2013|newspaper = The Los Angeles Times|date = October 24, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://starwars.com/news/master-filmmaking-team-announced-for-star-wars.html|title = Master Filmmaking Team Announced for Star Wars: Episode VII|publisher = StarWars.com|date = October 24, 2013|accessdate = May 5, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url = http://herocomplex.latimes.com/movies/star-wars-episode-vii-j-j-abrams-lawrence-kasdan-to-pen-script|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII': J.J. Abrams, Lawrence Kasdan to pen script|last = McIntyre|first = Gina|work = Los Angeles Times|date = October 24, 2013|accessdate = October 24, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/25/business/media/abrams-and-kasdan-take-over-writing-of-new-star-wars-movie.html|title = Abrams and Kasdan Take Over Writing of New 'Star Wars' Movie|last = Barnes|first = Brooks|work = New York Times|date = October 24, 2013|accessdate = October 24, 2013}}</ref>


=== Casting ===
=== Pre-production ===
In May 2013, it was confirmed that ''The Force Awakens'' would be filmed in the United Kingdom. Representatives from Lucasfilm met with [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]] [[George Osborne]] to agree to produce ''The Force Awakens'' in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 11, 2013 |title=Star Wars to be filmed in Britain, says Lucasfilm president |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/11/star-wars-filmed-in-britain-lucasfilm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211117030249/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/may/11/star-wars-filmed-in-britain-lucasfilm |archive-date=November 17, 2021 |access-date=November 17, 2021 |website=[[The Guardian]]}}</ref> Osborne committed £25&nbsp;million of public money towards the film, claiming it was a boost for British culture and its film industry.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dathan |first1=Matt |title=Star Wars: George Osborne criticised after being given The Force Awakens credit |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/star-wars-george-osborne-given-credit-in-the-force-awakens-a6778246.html |website=[[The Independent]] |access-date=December 19, 2015 |date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219102711/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/star-wars-george-osborne-given-credit-in-the-force-awakens-a6778246.html |url-status=live}}</ref> According to production company account filings in the United Kingdom, ''The Force Awakens'' ultimately received a total of £31.6&nbsp;million ($47.4&nbsp;million) from the government.<ref name="Budget" /><ref name="Spenceb">{{Cite web |url=http://www.politico.eu/blogs/spence-on-media/2016/03/star-wars-disney-got-31-million-from-uk-taxman-for-force-awakens/ |title=Star Wars: Disney got £31 million from UK taxman for ''Force Awakens'' |website=[[Politico Europe]] |last=Spence |first=Alex |date=March 9, 2016 |access-date=August 15, 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310130814/http://www.politico.eu/blogs/spence-on-media/2016/03/star-wars-disney-got-31-million-from-uk-taxman-for-force-awakens/ |archive-date=March 10, 2016}}</ref>
Casting began around August 2013, with Abrams meeting with potential actors for meet and greets, script readings and screen tests. Open auditions were held in the UK, Ireland, and the United States in November 2013 for the roles of "Rachel" and "Thomas".<ref>{{cite web|title = Star Wars open auditions venue and dates change|url = http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-24909892|work = BBC News|date = November 12, 2013|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last = Smith|first = Jeanie|title = Disney holds St. Louis casting call for upcoming movie|url = http://www.ksdk.com/story/homepage/2013/11/09/disney-holds-casting-call-in-st-louis-for-upcoming-star-wars-film/3485605/|work = KSDK|date = November 9, 2013|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title = Worldwide Search For Two Major Roles in Star Wars|url = http://www.opencastingcall2013.com/|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref> Casting began in earnest in January 2014, due to changes to the script by Kasdan and Abrams.<ref>{{cite news|title = Star Wars Episode VII A New Hope (Really)|last = Breznican|first = Anthony|work = Entertainment Weekly|date = May 16, 2014}}</ref> Screen tests with actors continued until at least three weeks before the official announcement on April 29, 2014, with final casting decisions being made only a few weeks prior. Actors testing had strict non-disclosure agreements, preventing them, or their agents and publicist, from commenting on their potential involvement with the film.<ref name="secret" />


Beginning in September 2013, production spaces at the [[Bad Robot]] facility were converted for shooting of ''The Force Awakens'' for the benefit of shooting a minor portion of the film in the United States.<ref>{{cite web |last=Abramian |first=Alexandria |title=Source: J.J. Abrams Building 'Star Wars' Postproduction Facility in L.A. (Exclusive) |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-j-j-abrams-625516 |access-date=March 19, 2014 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=September 11, 2013 |archive-date=April 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140420083306/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-j-j-abrams-625516 |url-status=live}}</ref> The film's costume designer was [[Michael Kaplan (costume designer)|Michael Kaplan]], who had previously worked with Abrams on the films ''[[Star Trek (2009 film)|Star Trek]]'' (2009) and ''[[Star Trek Into Darkness]]'' (2013).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ign.com/articles/2013/05/19/star-trek-costume-designer-joins-star-wars-vii-crew |title=Star Trek Costume Designer Joins Star Wars VII Crew |last=Butler |first=Tom |website=[[IGN]] |date=May 19, 2013 |access-date=May 19, 2013 |archive-date=June 7, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607120618/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/05/19/star-trek-costume-designer-joins-star-wars-vii-crew |url-status=live}}</ref> Film editors [[Mary Jo Markey]] and [[Maryann Brandon]], long-term collaborators with Abrams, were also signed.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.studiodaily.com/2013/05/maryann-brandon-and-mary-jo-markey-on-cutting-star-trek-into-darkness |title=Maryann Brandon and Mary Jo Markey on Cutting Star Trek Into Darkness |first=Beth |last=Merchant |work=Studio Daily |date=May 22, 2013 |access-date=May 26, 2013 |archive-date=June 8, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130608002252/http://www.studiodaily.com/2013/05/maryann-brandon-and-mary-jo-markey-on-cutting-star-trek-into-darkness/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In August 2013, it was announced that [[cinematographer]] [[Daniel Mindel]] would be shooting the film on [[35 mm movie film|35 mm film]] (specifically [[Kodak]] [[List of motion picture film stocks|5219]]).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://thewrap.com/movies/column-post/jj-abrams-hires-familiar-cinematographer-shoot-star-wars-episode-vii-35mm-film-112771 |title=J.J. Abrams Hires 'Star Trek' Cinematographer to Shoot 'Star Wars: Episode VII' on 35MM Film |first=Jeff |last=Sneider |website=[[TheWrap]] |date=August 22, 2013 |access-date=August 23, 2013 |archive-date=August 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130823000213/http://www.thewrap.com/movies/column-post/jj-abrams-hires-familiar-cinematographer-shoot-star-wars-episode-vii-35mm-film-112771 |url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2013, other crew members were confirmed, including sound designer [[Ben Burtt]], director of photography Mindel, production designers [[Rick Carter]] and Darren Gilford, costume designer Michael Kaplan, special effects supervisor [[Chris Corbould]], re-recording mixer [[Gary Rydstrom]], supervising sound editor Matthew Wood, visual effects supervisors Roger Guyett, and executive producer Jason McGatlin.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Collura |first=Scott |date=October 24, 2013 |title=J.J. Abrams and Lawrence Kasdan Take Over Star Wars: Episode VII Screenplay Duties |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/24/jj-abrams-and-lawrence-kasdan-take-over-star-wars-episode-vii-screenplay-duties |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211120133944/https://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/24/jj-abrams-and-lawrence-kasdan-take-over-star-wars-episode-vii-screenplay-duties |archive-date=November 20, 2021 |access-date=November 20, 2021 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref>
Though Lucas intimated that previous cast members [[Carrie Fisher]], [[Harrison Ford]], and [[Mark Hamill]] would return for the new film as early as March 2013,<ref name="BloombergMar2013">{{cite web|url = http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-03-07/how-disney-bought-lucasfilm-and-its-plans-for-star-wars|title = How Disney Bought Lucasfilm—and Its Plans for 'Star Wars'|last = Leonard|first = Devin|work = Bloomberg Businessweek|date = March 7, 2013|accessdate = May 26, 2013}}</ref> their casting was not confirmed until over a year later. Casting for new character roles was the subject of much speculation since the film's announcement. [[Saoirse Ronan]],<ref>{{cite news |title = Saoirse Ronan Confirms She Did Audition For 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Role, But 'So Did Everyone'|url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/01/saoirse-ronan-star-wars_n_4023967.html|date = October 1, 2013|publisher = The Huffington Post|accessdate = October 1, 2013|first = Matthew|last = Jacobs}}</ref> [[Michael B. Jordan]],<ref>{{cite web|title = Michael B. Jordan Confirms 'Star Wars' Rumor|url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/10/michael-b-jordan-star-wars_n_4078714.html|date = October 10, 2013|work = The Huffington Post|accessdate = November 3, 2013}}</ref> and [[Lupita Nyong'o]]<ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/lupita-nyongo-meets-jj-abrams-688787|title = Lupita Nyong'o Meets With J.J. Abrams for 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|last = Kit|first = Borys|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = March 14, 2014|accessdate = March 17, 2014}}</ref> each auditioned for the film. Industry publications also reported [[Jesse Plemons]] was being considered for possibly Luke Skywalker's son;<ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.thewrap.com/star-wars-episode-vii-jesse-plemons-breaking-bad/|title = ‘Breaking Bad's’ Jesse Plemons Eyed for Lead in ‘Star Wars: Episode VII’ (Exclusive)|last = Sneider|first = Jeff|work = The Wrap|date = January 10, 2014|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref> [[Adam Driver]] for an unnamed villain;<ref>{{cite news|url = http://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-villain-adam-driver-girls-1201121646|title = 'Star Wars': Adam Driver Near Deal to Play the Villain (EXCLUSIVE)|last = Kroll|first = Justin|work = Variety|date = February 26, 2014|accessdate = February 27, 2014}}</ref> and Maisie Richardson-Sellers for an unknown character.<ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-speculation-693268|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Speculation Centers on Unknown Oxford Actress|last = Kit|first = Borys|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = April 9, 2014|accessdate = April 9, 2014}}</ref> In March 2014, actor [[Dominic Monaghan]] said during an interview that Abrams was looking for three unknown actors to play the leads in ''Episode VII'' and that rumors of bigger name stars were untrue.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.express.co.uk/news/showbiz/467708/Star-Wars-Episode-VII-JJ-Abrams-looking-at-cast-of-unknown-actors-like-original-trilogy|title = JJ Abrams looking at 'unknown actors' for Star Wars Episode VII like original trilogy cast|last = Dassanayake|first = Dion|work = Express|date = March 30, 2014|accessdate = March 30, 2014}}</ref>


=== Casting ===
[[Daisy Ridley]] was chosen for the film by February 2014, and by the end of that month a deal had been worked out with Driver, who was able to work around his ''[[Girls (TV series)|Girls]]'' schedule. By March 2014, talks with [[Andy Serkis]] and [[Oscar Isaac]] began and continued into April 2014. Also in April, [[John Boyega]] began more serious talks after dropping out of a biopic on [[Jesse Owens]].<ref name="secret">{{cite web|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-vii-cast-how-699964|title = How 'Star Wars' Director J.J. Abrams Kept the Cast Secret|last = Kit|first = Borys|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = April 30, 2014|accessdate = April 30, 2014}}</ref> [[Denis Lawson]], who played [[Wedge Antilles]] in the original trilogy, was asked to reprise his role, but declined, stating that it would have "bored" him.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/perth-kinross/new-star-wars-films-would-have-bored-me-says-scots-actor-denis-lawson-1.353349|title = New Star Wars films 'would have bored me', says Scots actor Denis Lawson|last = Topping|first = Kirsty|work = The Courier|date = May 5, 2014|accessdate = May 11, 2014}}</ref>
Open auditions were held in the United Kingdom and the United States in November 2013 for the roles of "Rachel" and "Thomas".<ref>{{cite web |title=Star Wars open auditions venue and dates change |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-24909892 |publisher=[[BBC News]] |date=November 12, 2013 |access-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140523182104/http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-24909892 |url-status=live}}</ref> Casting began in earnest in January 2014, because of changes to the script by Kasdan and Abrams.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2014/05/15/star-wars-episode-vii-new-hope-really/ |title='Star Wars Episode VII': A New Hope (Really) |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=May 15, 2014 |access-date=February 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210202061200/https://ew.com/article/2014/05/15/star-wars-episode-vii-new-hope-really/ |archive-date=February 2, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> Screen tests with actors continued until at least three weeks before the official announcement in April 2014, with final casting decisions made only a few weeks earlier. Actors testing had strict nondisclosure agreements, preventing them, their agents or their publicists from commenting on their involvement.<ref name="secret" /> Though Lucas intimated that previous cast members [[Carrie Fisher]], [[Harrison Ford]], and [[Mark Hamill]] would return for the new film as early as March 2013,<ref name="BloombergMar2013">{{cite web |url=http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-03-07/how-disney-bought-lucasfilm-and-its-plans-for-star-wars |title=How Disney Bought Lucasfilm—and Its Plans for 'Star Wars' |last=Leonard |first=Devin |work=[[Bloomberg Businessweek]] |date=March 7, 2013 |access-date=May 26, 2013 |archive-date=September 30, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170930150541/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-03-07/how-disney-bought-lucasfilm-and-its-plans-for-star-wars |url-status=dead |url-access=subscription}}</ref> their casting was not confirmed until over a year later.<ref name="OfficialCast" />


Abrams set out to have a more diverse cast than previous installments.<ref name="Kroll">{{cite web |last=Kroll |first=Justin |url=https://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-4-1201125355/ |title=''Star Wars Episode VII'': Actors Battle for Lead Role (EXCLUSIVE) |date=March 12, 2014 |website=Variety |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=October 29, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029100330/https://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-4-1201125355/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A very early report claimed the studio wanted [[Ryan Gosling]], [[Leonardo DiCaprio]] and [[Zac Efron]] for roles.<ref>{{cite web |last=Chitwood |first=Adam |url=https://collider.com/star-wars-7-ryan-gosling-zac-efron/ |title=Rumor: Ryan Gosling and Zac Efron Eyed for ''Star Wars: Episode VII'' |date=July 24, 2013 |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621173534/https://collider.com/star-wars-7-ryan-gosling-zac-efron/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Taylor |first=Drew |url=https://www.indiewire.com/2013/07/ryan-gosling-leonardo-dicaprio-zac-efron-met-with-disney-j-j-abrams-about-star-wars-7-maybe-95545/ |title=Ryan Gosling, Leonardo DiCaprio & Zac Efron Met With Disney & J.J. Abrams About ''Star Wars 7'', Maybe |date=July 24, 2013 |website=IndieWire |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=December 8, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208040121/https://www.indiewire.com/2013/07/ryan-gosling-leonardo-dicaprio-zac-efron-met-with-disney-j-j-abrams-about-star-wars-7-maybe-95545/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2013, [[Michael B. Jordan]], [[Saoirse Ronan]], and [[David Oyelowo]] were among the first to meet with the director.<ref>{{cite web |last=Romano |first=Nick |url=https://screencrush.com/star-wars-episode-7-michael-b-jordan-david-oyelowo/ |title=''Star Wars: Episode 7'': Michael B. Jordan and David Oyelowo Looking to Join? |date=September 20, 2013 |website=[[ScreenCrush]] |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=October 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025225347/https://screencrush.com/star-wars-episode-7-michael-b-jordan-david-oyelowo/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In January 2014, ''The Hollywood Reporter'' revealed [[Benedict Cumberbatch]], [[Jack O'Connell (actor)|Jack O'Connell]], [[Chiwetel Ejiofor]], [[Alex Pettyfer]], [[Jesse Plemons]], [[Sullivan Stapleton]], [[Tye Sheridan]], [[Hugo Weaving]], [[Michael Fassbender]], and [[Adam Driver]] all met with Abrams for the film. The role Sheridan met for was ultimately rewritten to be played by a 40 year old actor, while Weaving was in talks for an "Imperial commander".<ref>{{cite web |last=Kit |first=Borys |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-rumors-who-is-669997/ |title=''Star Wars'' Rumors: Who Is J.J. Abrams Eyeing for ''Episode VII'' |date=January 11, 2014 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622193006/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-rumors-who-is-669997/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ronan, Jordan, [[Frida Gustavsson]], and later [[Miles Teller]] would go on to confirm their auditions for the film.<ref>{{cite news |title=Saoirse Ronan Confirms She Did Audition For 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Role, But 'So Did Everyone' |url=https://huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/01/saoirse-ronan-star-wars_n_4023967.html |date=October 1, 2013 |work=[[The Huffington Post]] |access-date=October 1, 2013 |first=Matthew |last=Jacobs |archive-date=October 1, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131001225125/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/01/saoirse-ronan-star-wars_n_4023967.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Michael B. Jordan Confirms 'Star Wars' Rumor |url=https://huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/10/michael-b-jordan-star-wars_n_4078714.html |first=Ryan |last=Pearson |date=October 10, 2013 |work=[[The Huffington Post]] |access-date=November 3, 2013 |archive-date=November 9, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109063355/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/10/michael-b-jordan-star-wars_n_4078714.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefrontrowview.com/2014/11/frida-gustavsson-confirms-shes-quitting.html |title=Frida Gustavsson |quote=She has said that she is not necessarily drawn to a Hollywood style career, although she recently auditioned for the new Star Wars film but did not get the part. |date=12 November 2014 |access-date=2020-08-17 |work=TheFrontRowView |archive-date=2020-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927071021/http://www.thefrontrowview.com/2014/11/frida-gustavsson-confirms-shes-quitting.html |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gallagher |first=Brian |url=https://movieweb.com/miles-teller-talks-the-fantastic-four-and-star-wars-7/ |title=Miles Teller Talks ''The Fantastic Four'' and ''Star Wars 7'' |date=January 23, 2014 |website=MovieWeb |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=September 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907050527/https://movieweb.com/miles-teller-talks-the-fantastic-four-and-star-wars-7/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Industry publications speculated that Plemons could possibly be playing Luke Skywalker's son.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://thewrap.com/star-wars-episode-vii-jesse-plemons-breaking-bad |title='Breaking Bad's' Jesse Plemons Eyed for Lead in 'Star Wars: Episode VII' (Exclusive) |last=Sneider |first=Jeff |work=[[TheWrap]] |date=January 10, 2014 |access-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-date=May 24, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140524004103/http://www.thewrap.com/star-wars-episode-vii-jesse-plemons-breaking-bad/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In February, Driver was in final negotiations for an unnamed villain, while [[Gary Oldman]] revealed he was approached for an undisclosed role.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-villain-adam-driver-girls-1201121646 |title='Star Wars': Adam Driver Near Deal to Play the Villain (EXCLUSIVE) |last=Kroll |first=Justin |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=February 26, 2014 |access-date=February 27, 2014 |archive-date=February 27, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140227071128/http://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-villain-adam-driver-girls-1201121646/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Child |first=Ben |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/feb/07/gary-oldman-star-wars-episode-vii-7-role-jj-abrams |title=Gary Oldman Reveals Talks Over ''Star Wars: Episode VII'' Role |date=February 7, 2014 |website=The Guardian |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=May 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240510120601/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/feb/07/gary-oldman-star-wars-episode-vii-7-role-jj-abrams |url-status=live }}</ref> In March, [[John Boyega]], Plemons, [[Ray Fisher (actor)|Ray Fisher]], [[Matthew James Thomas]] and [[Ed Speleers]] were Abrams' top choice for the lead role.<ref name="Kroll" /> Boyega began talks after dropping out of the [[Jesse Owens]] biopic ''[[Race (2016 film)|Race]]''.<ref name="secret">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-vii-cast-how-699964 |title=How 'Star Wars' Director J.J. Abrams Kept the Cast Secret |last=Kit |first=Borys |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=April 30, 2014 |access-date=April 30, 2014 |archive-date=May 3, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140503022957/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-vii-cast-how-699964 |url-status=live}}</ref> That same month, [[Lupita Nyong'o]] was said to have met also met with Abrams for the female lead.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/lupita-nyongo-meets-jj-abrams-688787 |title=Lupita Nyong'o Meets With J.J. Abrams for 'Star Wars: Episode VII' |last=Kit |first=Borys |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=March 14, 2014 |access-date=March 17, 2014 |archive-date=March 16, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140316205707/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/lupita-nyongo-meets-jj-abrams-688787 |url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2014, Plemons and Thomas were no longer in contention for the film.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kir |first1=Borys |last2=Ford |first2=Rebecca |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-vii-is-jesse-693031/ |title=With ''Black Mass'' Casting, Jesse Plemons Likely Out of ''Star Wars: VII'' |date=April 2, 2014 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621173542/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-vii-is-jesse-693031/ |url-status=live }}</ref> That same month, Maisie Richardson-Sellers, an "unknown Oxford actress", and [[Dev Patel]] were up for unknown roles.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-speculation-693268 |title='Star Wars: Episode VII' Speculation Centers on Unknown Oxford Actress |last=Kit |first=Borys |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=April 9, 2014 |access-date=April 9, 2014 |archive-date=April 11, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140411024619/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-speculation-693268 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Jagernauth |first=Kevin |url=https://www.indiewire.com/2014/05/dev-patel-tested-for-star-wars-episode-7-in-past-few-weeks-but-didnt-get-cast-86496/ |title=Dev Patel Tested For ''Star Wars: Episode 7'' In Past Few Weeks, But Didn't Get Cast |date=May 1, 2014 |website=IndieWire |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622193006/https://www.indiewire.com/2014/05/dev-patel-tested-for-star-wars-episode-7-in-past-few-weeks-but-didnt-get-cast-86496/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ronan, Richardson-Sellers, [[Courtney Eaton]], [[Eiza Gonzalez]], [[Elizabeth Olsen]] and [[Jessica Henwick]] auditioned for Rey.<ref>{{cite web |last=Burlingame |first=Russ |url=https://comicbook.com/starwars/news/star-wars-force-awakens-maisie-richardson-auditioned-rey/ |title=''Star Wars: The Force Awakens' '' Maisie Richardson-Sellers Originally Auditioned for Another Role |date=July 27, 2020 |website=Comic Book |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622193006/https://comicbook.com/starwars/news/star-wars-force-awakens-maisie-richardson-auditioned-rey/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Barfield |first=Charles |url=https://theplaylist.net/eiza-gonzalez-star-wars-force-awakens-mother-20210326/ |title=''Star Wars'': Eiza Gonzalez Made It "Pretty Far" In The Rey Audition Process Thanks To Her Mom |date=March 26, 2021 |website=The Playlist |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621173534/https://theplaylist.net/eiza-gonzalez-star-wars-force-awakens-mother-20210326/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sensacine.com.mx/noticias/noticia-18574238/ |website=Sensacine Mexico |title=Esta actriz de Marvel estuvo a punto de interpretar a Rey en Star Wars |first=Jennifer |last=Olvera |date=4 May 2022 |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702072001/https://www.sensacine.com.mx/noticias/noticia-18574238/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Davids |first=Brian |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/underwater-jessica-henwick-had-6-month-star-wars-audition-rey-1268648/ |title=Jessica Henwick on ''Underwater'' and Her 6-Month ''Star Wars'' Audition |date=January 10, 2020 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621173549/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/underwater-jessica-henwick-had-6-month-star-wars-audition-rey-1268648/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.interviewmagazine.com/film/courtney-eaton-and-simone-kessell-have-a-meeting-of-the-lotties | title=Courtney Eaton and Simone Kessell Have a Meeting of the Lotties | date=May 26, 2023 }}</ref> [[Joseph David-Jones]], [[Tom Holland]], and [[Daryl McCormack]] were later reported to have auditioned for Finn while McCormack made it to the final round of auditions for the part.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://people.com/movies/tom-holland-discusses-how-he-blew-his-audition-for-star-wars/ |title=Tom Holland Discusses How He Blew His Audition for Star Wars: 'I Just Couldn't Stop Laughing' |first=Dan |last=Heching |date=December 10, 2021 |website=People |access-date=December 27, 2021 |archive-date=May 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240510120513/https://people.com/movies/tom-holland-discusses-how-he-blew-his-audition-for-star-wars/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.looper.com/648586/joseph-david-jones-dishes-about-his-4400-role-representation-and-his-time-in-the-arrowverse-exclusive-interview/ |title=Joseph David-Jones Dishes About His 4400 Role, Representation, and His Time in the Arrowverse – Exclusive Interview |date=November 2021 |access-date=January 9, 2022 |archive-date=January 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109211136/https://www.looper.com/648586/joseph-david-jones-dishes-about-his-4400-role-representation-and-his-time-in-the-arrowverse-exclusive-interview/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://m.independent.ie/entertainment/irish-actor-daryl-mccormack-has-star-wars-hopes-dashedbut-jj-abrams-tips-him-as-one-to-watch-30010240.html |title=Irish actor Daryl McCormack has Star Wars hopes dashed...but JJ Abrams tips him as one to watch |date=February 14, 2014 |access-date=June 20, 2022 |archive-date=May 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240510120627/https://widgets.outbrain.com/nanoWidget/externals/topics/topics.html?r=https%3A%2F%2Fm.independent.ie |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Eddie Redmayne]] and [[Joel Kinnaman]] tested for Kylo Ren.<ref>{{Cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2016/11/08/eddie-redmayne-kylo-ren-star-wars-audition/ |title=Eddie Redmayne Reveals He Auditioned to Play Kylo Ren in 'Star Wars' |first=Devan |last=Coggan |date=November 8, 2016 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |access-date=December 27, 2021 |archive-date=December 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227220307/https://ew.com/article/2016/11/08/eddie-redmayne-kylo-ren-star-wars-audition/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Kit |first=Borys |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/adam-driver-play-villain-star-683821/ |title=Adam Driver to Play Villain in ''Star Wars: Episode VII'' |date=February 26, 2014 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622193008/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/adam-driver-play-villain-star-683821/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
On April 29, 2014, the official casting announcement was made which included a photo of the cast seated in a circle at [[Pinewood Studios]] near London for their first [[Read-through|table read]] of the script.<ref name="OfficialCast">{{cite web|url = http://starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-7-cast-announced.html|title = STAR WARS: EPISODE VII CAST ANNOUNCED|publisher = Star Wars.com|date = April 29, 2014|accessdate = April 29, 2014}}</ref> In clockwise direction from the top, to the right of Abrams were Ford, Daisy Ridley, Fisher, [[Peter Mayhew]], producer [[Bryan Burk]], Lucasfilm president and producer [[Kathleen Kennedy (film producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]], [[Domhnall Gleeson]], [[Anthony Daniels]], Hamill, Andy Serkis, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, Driver, and writer Lawrence Kasdan. Not pictured but a part of the cast were [[Max von Sydow]] and [[Kenny Baker (English actor)|Kenny Baker]]. The announcement was originally planned for May 4 ([[Star Wars Day|''Star Wars'' Day]]), however due to fears of media leaks, the studio decided to make the announcement a few days early. More casting is expected, including a major female role.<ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.thewrap.com/star-wars-episode-vii-director-j-j-abrams-still-tricks-sleeve/|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII' director J.J. Abrams still has casting tricks up his sleeve|last = Sneider|first = Jeff|work = The Wrap|date = April 29, 2014|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref> Official details for the new characters were unavailable with the announcement, but industry publication [[Variety (magazine)|''Variety'']] reported that Driver would be playing a Darth Vader-esque villain role, Isaac's role would be like Han Solo, Boyega would be playing a Jedi role, and Ridley could be playing the role of the daughter of Han and Leia.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://variety.com/2014/film/news/star-wars-5-1200596276/|title = ‘Star Wars: Episode VII’ Cast Revealed|last = Kroll|first = Justin|date = April 29, 2014|work = Variety|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref> On June 2, 2014. [[Lupita Nyong'o]] and [[Gwendoline Christie]] were announced in the cast.<ref name="OfficialCast2">{{cite web|url = http://www.starwars.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-adds-academy-award-winner-lupita-nyongo-and-game-of-thrones-gwendoline-christie|title = Academy Award Winner Lupita Nyoung'o Joins the Cast of Star Wars: Episode VII|work = StarWars.com|date = June 2, 2014|accessdate = June 2, 2014}}</ref>


[[Daisy Ridley]] was cast by February 2014, and by the end of that month a deal had been worked out with Driver, who was able to work around his ''[[Girls (TV series)|Girls]]'' schedule. Talks with [[Andy Serkis]] and [[Oscar Isaac]] began by March and continued into April.<ref name="secret" /> [[Denis Lawson]], who played [[Wedge Antilles]] in the original trilogy, declined to reprise his role, saying it would have "bored" him.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/perth-kinross/new-star-wars-films-would-have-bored-me-says-scots-actor-denis-lawson-1.353349 |title=New Star Wars films 'would have bored me', says Scots actor Denis Lawson |last=Topping |first=Kirsty |work=[[The Courier (Dundee)|The Courier]] |date=May 5, 2014 |access-date=May 11, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140512215343/http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/perth-kinross/new-star-wars-films-would-have-bored-me-says-scots-actor-denis-lawson-1.353349 |archive-date=May 12, 2014}}</ref>
To prepare for the role, Hamill grew out his own [[beard]],<ref>{{cite web|last = Franich|first = Darren|title = And now we know that Luke Skywalker has a beard in 'Star Wars: Episode VII' -- PHOTO|url = http://popwatch.ew.com/2014/06/06/star-wars-luke-skywalker-episode-vii/|accessdate = June 7, 2014|work = Entertainment Weekly|date = June 6, 2014}}</ref> and was assigned a personal trainer and a nutritionist at the request of the producers, who wanted him to closely resemble an older version of Luke.<ref name="DigitalSpy">{{cite web|url = http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/news/a493251/star-wars-7-actors-mark-hamill-carrie-fisher-told-to-lose-weight.html|title = 'Star Wars 7' actors Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher 'told to lose weight'|last = Earnes|first = Tom|date = June 26, 2013|work = DigitalSpy|accessdate = May 1, 2014}}</ref> Fisher was also assigned a personal trainer and a nutritionist to prepare for the role.<ref name="DigitalSpy" /> The production team built a new C-3PO suit to accommodate Daniels.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://insidetv.ew.com/2014/09/16/star-wars-anthony-daniels-interview/2/|title = Anthony Daniels' deep-dive 'Star Wars' interview: C-3PO's past, present and future|last = Hibberd|first = James|work = Entertainment Weekly|date = September 16, 2014|accessdate = September 19, 2014}}</ref> In May 2014, Fisher's mother, [[Debbie Reynolds]], stated that Fisher had already lost 40 pounds in preparation for the film.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/movies/carrie-fisher-dropped-40-pounds-episode-vii-article-1.1786208|title = Carrie Fisher dropped 40 pounds for 'Star Wars: Episode VII', proud mom Debbie Reynolds says|last = Sacks|first = Ethan|date = May 9, 2013|work = New York Daily News|accessdate = May 9, 2014}}</ref>


In April, Ridley, Boyega, Isaac, Driver, Serkis, [[Domhnall Gleeson]], and [[Max von Sydow]] were announced as part of the cast; while Ford, Hamill, Fisher, [[Anthony Daniels]], [[Peter Mayhew]], and Baker reprised their roles from the original trilogy.<ref name="OfficialCast">{{Cite web |last1=Ford |first1=Rebecca |last2=Kit |first2=Borys |date=April 29, 2014 |title='Star Wars: Episode VII' Cast Revealed |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-episode-vii-cast-698480/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104044839/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-episode-vii-cast-698480/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 4, 2021 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref> In June, cast additions Lupita Nyong'o and [[Gwendoline Christie]] were announced.<ref name="OfficialCast2">{{Cite magazine |last=Feeney |first=Nolan |date=June 2, 2014 |title=Lupita Nyong'o, Gwendoline Christie Join New Star Wars Film Cast |url=https://time.com/2809562/lupita-nyongo-gwendoline-christie-star-wars/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104222613/https://time.com/2809562/lupita-nyongo-gwendoline-christie-star-wars/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 5, 2021 |magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]}}</ref> To prepare for his role, Hamill was assigned a personal trainer and a nutritionist at the request of the producers, who wanted him to resemble an older Luke.<ref name="DigitalSpy">{{cite web |url=http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/news/a493251/star-wars-7-actors-mark-hamill-carrie-fisher-told-to-lose-weight.html |title='Star Wars 7' actors Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher 'told to lose weight' |last=Earnes |first=Tom |date=June 26, 2013 |website=[[Digital Spy]] |access-date=May 1, 2014 |archive-date=May 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502001641/http://www.digitalspy.com/movies/news/a493251/star-wars-7-actors-mark-hamill-carrie-fisher-told-to-lose-weight.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Fisher was also assigned a personal trainer and a nutritionist.<ref name="DigitalSpy" /> Abrams initially considered using Daniels only in a voice role for C-3PO,<ref name=C3POdemand>{{cite web |last1=Eisenberg |first1=Eric |title=Star Wars' C-3PO Demanded These 2 Things From J.J. Abrams Before Signing His Contract |date=September 16, 2014 |url=https://cinemablend.com/new/Star-Wars-C-3PO-Demanded-2-Things-From-J-J-Abrams-Signing-His-Contract-67244.html |publisher=[[CinemaBlend]] |access-date=December 14, 2015 |archive-date=November 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151128072215/http://www.cinemablend.com/new/Star-Wars-C-3PO-Demanded-2-Things-From-J-J-Abrams-Signing-His-Contract-67244.html |url-status=live}}</ref> but Daniels opted to reprise the role physically as well; the production team built a new C-3PO costume to accommodate him.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://insidetv.ew.com/2014/09/16/star-wars-anthony-daniels-interview/2 |title=Anthony Daniels' deep-dive 'Star Wars' interview: C-3PO's past, present and future |last=Hibberd |first=James |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=September 16, 2014 |access-date=September 19, 2014 |archive-date=September 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140919011209/http://insidetv.ew.com/2014/09/16/star-wars-anthony-daniels-interview/2/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> A flashback scene was cut from Rey's vision (following her discovery of Luke's lightsaber), which would have featured [[Robert Boulter]] [[Stand-in|standing in]] for Luke as he appeared in his duel with Vader in ''The Empire Strikes Back''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://movieweb.com/the-force-awakens-young-luke-skywalker-photo/ |title=Young Luke Skywalker Revealed in The Force Awakens Deleted Flashback |last=Scott |first=Ryan |date=November 26, 2018 |publisher=[[MovieWeb]] |access-date=November 27, 2018 |archive-date=November 27, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181127034634/https://movieweb.com/the-force-awakens-young-luke-skywalker-photo/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
From the ''Star Wars'' set in Abu Dhabi, Abrams announced a donation contest for [[UNICEF]] by which the selected winner would visit the set, meet members of the cast, and appear in the film.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-jj-706179|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII': J.J. Abrams Offers Fans a Chance to Be in Movie|last = THR Staff|date = May 21, 2014|work = The Hollywood Reporter|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref>


In October 2014, [[Warwick Davis]], who played Wald and Weazle in ''[[Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace]]'' and [[Wicket]] the [[Ewok]] in ''[[Return of the Jedi]]'', announced that he will be appearing in ''Episode VII'' though did not mention the role he would be playing.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=124098|title = Warwick Davis Will Return for Star Wars: Episode VII, Plus Darth Vader's Star Wars Rebels Appearance Revealed|work = ComingSoon.net|date = October 16, 2014|accessdate = November 14, 2014}}</ref> In November 2014, Fisher's mother, Debbie Reynolds, confirmed that Fisher's daughter, Billie Lourd, was in the film.<ref name="Lourd" />
In May, Abrams announced a donation contest for [[UNICEF]] from the ''Star Wars'' set in Abu Dhabi; the winner was allowed to visit the set, meet members of the cast and appear in the film.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-jj-706179 |title='Star Wars: Episode VII': J.J. Abrams Offers Fans a Chance to Be in Movie |last=THR Staff |date=May 21, 2014 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140523175540/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-jj-706179 |url-status=live}}</ref> In October, Warwick Davis, who played [[Wicket W. Warrick|Wicket]] in ''Return of the Jedi'', as well as Wald and Weazle in ''[[The Phantom Menace]]'' (1999), announced that he would appear in ''The Force Awakens'', but did not reveal his role.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=124098 |title=Warwick Davis Will Return for Star Wars: Episode VII, Plus Darth Vader's Star Wars Rebels Appearance Revealed |publisher=[[ComingSoon.net]] |date=October 16, 2014 |access-date=November 14, 2014 |archive-date=November 13, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113104918/http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=124098 |url-status=live}}</ref> In November, [[Debbie Reynolds]] confirmed that her granddaughter (Fisher's daughter), [[Billie Lourd]], was in the film.<ref name="Lourd" /> Lourd first auditioned for the role of Rey prior to her casting.<ref>{{cite web |last=Nyren |first=Erin |url=https://variety.com/2017/film/news/billie-lourd-rey-star-wars-audition-ellen-show-1202557023/ |title=Billie Lourd Originally Auditioned for Rey Role in ''Star Wars'' |date=September 13, 2017 |website=Variety |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220621173542/https://variety.com/2017/film/news/billie-lourd-rey-star-wars-audition-ellen-show-1202557023/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


=== Filming ===
=== Filming ===
[[File:Rust-tinged ranges (4185709574).jpg|thumb|The [[Rub' Al Khali]] desert around [[Liwa Oasis]] in the United Arab Emirates was used as filming location for planet [[Jakku]].]]
In February 2014, Abrams said filming would begin in May and last about three months.<ref name="Parismatch" /> Sources told [[Hitfix]] that filming would wrap in September 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.hitfix.com/motion-captured/confirmed-complete-star-wars-episode-vii-shooting-dates-revealed/|title = CONFIRMED: COMPLETE 'STAR WARS: EPISODE VII' SHOOTING DATES REVEALED|last = McWeeny|first = Drew|work = Hitfix|date = February 10, 2014|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref> The official announcement came on March 18, when Disney and Lucasfilm announced that [[principal photography]] would commence in May and be based at [[Pinewood Studios]] in [[Buckinghamshire]], England.<ref>{{cite news|url = http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-26639322|title = Episode VII filming to begin in UK in May|work = BBC News|date = March 18, 2014|accessdate = March 18, 2014}}</ref> In March, it was revealed that pre-production filming would be taking place in [[Iceland]] prior to the start of official filming in May, consisting of landscape shots which will be used for scenery in the film.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://metro.co.uk/2014/03/22/star-wars-7-iceland-rumours-spark-rumours-of-return-to-hoth-4673234/|title = Star Wars 7 Iceland rumours spark speculation of return to Hoth|last = Westbrook|first = Caroline|work = Metro|date = March 22, 2014|accessdate = March 22, 2014}}</ref> On April 2, [[The Walt Disney Studios (division)|Walt Disney Studios]] chairman [[Alan F. Horn|Alan Horn]] confirmed that filming had begun,<ref name="Appelo">{{cite news|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-chief-reveals-star-wars-693950|title = Disney Chief Reveals 'Star Wars: VII' Casting Almost Complete, Says Film Is Already Shooting (Video)|last = Appelo|first = Tim|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = April 5, 2014|accessdate = April 6, 2014}}</ref> filming in secret in the [[United Arab Emirates|U.A.E.]] [[Abu Dhabi (emirate)|emirate of Abu Dhabi]] by a second-unit.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://media.twofour54.com/en/news/news/abu-dhabi-is-first-location-for-star-wars-episode-vii.html|title = Abu Dhabi is First Location for Star Wars: Episode VII|work = twofour54|date = March 21, 2014|accessdate = May 26, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/disney-confirms-that-star-wars-episode-7-is-filming-in-abu-dhabi-desert|title = Disney confirms that Star Wars: Episode 7 is filming in Abu Dhabi desert|last = Newbould|first = Chris|work = The National|date = April 23, 2014|accessdate = April 25, 2014}}</ref> Later that month, it was revealed that in addition to 35mm film, segments of the film are being shot in the [[70 mm film|65mm]] IMAX format.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://cinefex.com/blog/film-renaissance/|title = Film Renaissance|last = Fordham|first = Joe|work = [[Cinefex]] Blog|date = April 20, 2014|accessdate = April 27, 2014}}</ref> On July 8, Bad Robot reported on Twitter that the film will be at least partially shot on [[IMAX]] cameras.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.slashfilm.com/star-wars-7-imax-2/|title = 'Star Wars Episode VII' Is Filming In IMAX|last = Lussier|first = Germain|work = Slashfilm|date = July 8, 2014|accessdate = July 8, 2014}}</ref>
In February 2014, Abrams said filming would begin in May and last about three months.<ref name="Parismatch" /> The official announcement came in March, when Disney and Lucasfilm announced that [[principal photography]] would commence in May and be based at Pinewood Studios in [[Buckinghamshire]], England.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-26639322 |title=Episode VII filming to begin in UK in May |publisher=[[BBC News]] |date=March 18, 2014 |access-date=March 18, 2014 |archive-date=March 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319001533/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-26639322 |url-status=live}}</ref> That month, it was revealed that pre-production filming would take place in Iceland prior to the start of official filming in May, consisting of landscape shots that would be used for scenery in the film.<ref>{{cite web |title=Star Wars: Episode VII Likely Shooting in Iceland; Is the Movie Going Back to Hoth? |url=https://collider.com/star-wars-episode-7-hoth-iceland/ |last=Goldberg |first=Matt |publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |date=March 25, 2014 |access-date=January 30, 2021 |archive-date=January 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130041026/https://collider.com/star-wars-episode-7-hoth-iceland/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In April, [[Walt Disney Studios (division)|Walt Disney Studios]] chairman Alan Horn confirmed that filming had begun,<ref name="Appelo">{{cite news |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-chief-reveals-star-wars-693950 |title=Disney Chief Reveals 'Star Wars: VII' Casting Almost Complete, Says Film Is Already Shooting (Video) |last=Appelo |first=Tim |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=April 5, 2014 |access-date=April 6, 2014 |archive-date=April 6, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140406155802/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/disney-chief-reveals-star-wars-693950 |url-status=live}}</ref> filming in secret in the United Arab Emirates around [[Liwa Oasis]], part of the [[emirate of Abu Dhabi]], by a second unit.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/disney-confirms-that-star-wars-episode-7-is-filming-in-abu-dhabi-desert |title=Disney confirms that Star Wars: Episode 7 is filming in Abu Dhabi desert |last=Newbould |first=Chris |work=[[The National (Abu Dhabi)|The National]] |location=Abu Dhabi |date=April 23, 2014 |access-date=April 25, 2014 |archive-date=April 24, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424130923/http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/disney-confirms-that-star-wars-episode-7-is-filming-in-abu-dhabi-desert |url-status=live}}</ref> Later that month, it was revealed that in addition to 35&nbsp;mm film, segments of the film were being shot in the [[65 mm]] [[IMAX]] format.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://cinefex.com/blog/film-renaissance |title=Film Renaissance |last=Fordham |first=Joe |work=[[Cinefex]] |date=April 20, 2014 |access-date=April 27, 2014 |archive-date=April 27, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140427205916/http://cinefex.com/blog/film-renaissance/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> In July, Bad Robot reported via [[Twitter]] that the film would be at least partially shot on IMAX cameras.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/star-wars-7-imax-2 |title='Star Wars Episode VII' Is Filming in IMAX |last=Lussier |first=Germain |website=[[/Film]] |date=July 8, 2014 |access-date=July 8, 2014 |archive-date=July 9, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140709110318/http://www.slashfilm.com/star-wars-7-imax-2/ |url-status=live}}</ref>


In early May 2014, the studio posted a [[selfie]] taken by Iger with Chewbacca. Iger stated the photo was taken while visiting Pinewood Studios two weeks earlier to discuss the shoot "which was just about to start" with Abrams, Kennedy, and Horn.<ref name="Faber">{{cite web|last = Faber|first = David|title = CNBC Exclusive: CNBC Transcript: Disney Chairman & CEO Bob Iger Speaks with CNBC's David Faber on "Squawk on the Street" Today|url = http://www.cnbc.com/id/101651430|work = Squawk on the Street|publisher = CNBC|accessdate = May 8, 2014|date = May 7, 2014}}</ref> Principal photography began in Abu Dhabi on May 16, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last = Ford|first = Rebecca|title = It's Official: 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Filming in Abu Dhabi|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-filming-706165|publisher = The Hollywood Reporter|accessdate = May 23, 2014|date = May 21, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last = Hamad|first = Marwa|title = ‘Star Wars’ begins filming on Friday in Abu Dhabi|url = http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/movie-news/star-wars-begins-filming-on-friday-in-abu-dhabi-1.1333146|publisher = GulfNews|accessdate = May 23, 2014|date = May 15, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title = Star Wars: 'Day one' filming begins|url = http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-27426140|publisher = BBC News|accessdate = May 23, 2014|date = May 16, 2014}}</ref> Abrams and members of the cast went to Abu Dhabi in early May, where large sets were built at the location, including a shuttle-like spacecraft, a large tower and a big market, and explosives were used to create a "blast crater". Cast members were spotted around the location practicing driving vehicles they will use during filming.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/film/star-wars-filming-to-start-on-may-13-in-abu-dhabi-desert|title = Star Wars filming to start on May 13 in Abu Dhabi desert|last = Newbould|first = Chris|work = The National|date = May 10, 2014|accessdate = May 23, 2014}}</ref> Production moved to [[Pinewood Studios]] in June.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://variety.com/2014/film/news/harrison-ford-injured-on-the-set-of-star-wars-episode-vii-1201219316/|title = Harrison Ford Injured on the Set of 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|work = Variety|date = June 12, 2014|accessdate = June 13, 2014}}</ref>
Principal photography began in Abu Dhabi on May 16, 2014.<ref>{{cite web |last=Hamad |first=Marwa |title='Star Wars' begins filming on Friday in Abu Dhabi |url=http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/movie-news/star-wars-begins-filming-on-friday-in-abu-dhabi-1.1333146 |work=[[Gulf News]] |access-date=May 23, 2014 |date=May 15, 2014 |archive-date=May 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522150840/http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/movie-news/star-wars-begins-filming-on-friday-in-abu-dhabi-1.1333146 |url-status=live}}</ref> The budget was initially estimated to be between $259&nbsp;million and $306&nbsp;million,<ref name="Budget">{{Cite web |last=McNary |first=Dave |author-link=Dave McNary |title=California Was World's Top Film Production Center in 2015, U.K. Generated Most Spending |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=June 15, 2016 |url=https://variety.com/2016/film/news/california-2015-movie-production-uk-spending-1201795800/ |access-date=April 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403001130/https://variety.com/2016/film/news/california-2015-movie-production-uk-spending-1201795800/ |archive-date=April 3, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="DeadlineProfitAnalysisFinal">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/03/star-wars-the-force-awakens-movie-profit-2015-lucasfilm-disney-1201726142/ |title=No. 1 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' – 2015 Most Valuable Movie Blockbuster Tournament |first=Mike Jr. |last=Fleming |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=March 28, 2016 |access-date=March 29, 2016 |archive-date=March 30, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160330054522/http://deadline.com/2016/03/star-wars-the-force-awakens-movie-profit-2015-lucasfilm-disney-1201726142/ |url-status=live}}</ref> but in 2023 financial accounts revealed the gross spend was $533 million and the net cost after tax breaks was $447 million.<ref name="Budget-Reid-2023" /> Abrams and the cast members went to Abu Dhabi in early May, where large sets were built on location—including a shuttle-like spacecraft, a large tower, and a big market—and where explosives were used to create a "blast crater". Cast members were spotted practicing driving vehicles that would be used during filming.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/film/star-wars-filming-to-start-on-may-13-in-abu-dhabi-desert |title=Star Wars filming to start on May 13 in Abu Dhabi desert |last=Newbould |first=Chris |work=[[The National (Abu Dhabi)|The National]] |date=May 10, 2014 |access-date=May 23, 2014 |archive-date=May 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519205644/http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/film/star-wars-filming-to-start-on-may-13-in-abu-dhabi-desert |url-status=live}}</ref> Production moved to Pinewood Studios in June.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2014/film/news/harrison-ford-injured-on-the-set-of-star-wars-episode-vii-1201219316/ |title=Harrison Ford Injured on the Set of 'Star Wars: Episode VII' |author=Variety Staff |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=June 12, 2014 |access-date=June 13, 2014 |archive-date=June 13, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140613021100/http://variety.com/2014/film/news/harrison-ford-injured-on-the-set-of-star-wars-episode-vii-1201219316/ |url-status=live}}</ref>


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On June 12, Harrison Ford fractured his leg while filming at Pinewood after a hydraulic door fell on him, and was taken to a hospital. Production was suspended for two weeks to accommodate Ford's injury.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/07/harrison-ford-star-wars-delay_n_5563232.html|title = Harrison Ford's Leg Injury To Halt 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Production For 2 Weeks|work = The Huffington Post|date = July 7, 2014|accessdate = July 7, 2014}}</ref> Ford's son Ben stated that Ford's ankle will likely need a plate and screws and that filming could be altered slightly, with the crew needing to shoot Ford from the waist up for a short time until he recovers.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://celebrity.yahoo.com/news/harrison-fords-star-wars-injury-details-195505600.html|title = Harrison Ford's 'Star Wars' Injury: New Details!|last = Ford|first = Rebecca|work = Yahoo!|date = June 14, 2014|accessdate = June 14, 2014}}</ref> [[Jake Steinfeld]], Ford's personal trainer, said in July that Ford was recovering rapidly.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.contactmusic.com/story/harrison-ford-is-recovering-rapidly_4272120|title = Harrison Ford - Harrison Ford is recovering rapidly|last = Showbiz|first = Bang|work = ContactMusic.com|date = July 4, 2014|accessdate = July 4, 2014}}</ref>
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On July 29, 2014, filming took place over three days at [[Skellig Michael]] island off the coast of [[County Kerry]] in Ireland with cast including [[Mark Hamill]] and [[Daisy Ridley]].<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.independent.ie/entertainment/movies/and-action-new-star-wars-film-shoot-kicks-off-on-skellig-michael-30466106.html|title = And . . . action! New 'Star Wars' film shoot kicks off on Skellig Michael|date = July 29, 2014|work = Irish Independent|accessdate = August 1, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2709106/An-island-far-far-away-Filming-Star-Wars-Episode-7-takes-place-remote-Irish-island-veil-secrecy.html|title = An island far, far away: Filming for Star Wars Episode 7 takes place on remote Irish island under veil of secrecy|date = July 29, 2014|work = Daily Mail|accessdate = August 1, 2014}}</ref>
<!--image 1-->| image1 = Skellig Michael (6214838436).jpg
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That same month, Harrison Ford fractured his leg while filming at Pinewood after a hydraulic door on the ''[[Millennium Falcon]]'' set fell on him, and was taken to a hospital. According to Abrams, Ford's ankle "went to a 90-degree angle".<ref name="Hiatt" /> Production was suspended for two weeks because of Ford's injury.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/07/harrison-ford-star-wars-delay_n_5563232.html |title=Harrison Ford's Leg Injury To Halt 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Production For 2 Weeks |work=[[The Huffington Post]] |date=July 7, 2014 |access-date=July 7, 2014 |archive-date=July 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708173826/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/07/harrison-ford-star-wars-delay_n_5563232.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Ford's son Ben said the ankle would likely need a plate and screws and that filming could be altered slightly, with the crew needing to shoot Ford from the waist up for a short time until he recovered.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://celebrity.yahoo.com/news/harrison-fords-star-wars-injury-details-195505600.html |title=Harrison Ford's 'Star Wars' Injury: New Details! |last=Ford |first=Rebecca |publisher=[[Yahoo!]] |date=June 14, 2014 |access-date=June 14, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715043003/https://celebrity.yahoo.com/news/harrison-fords-star-wars-injury-details-195505600.html |archive-date=July 15, 2014}}</ref> A month later, [[Jake Steinfeld]], Ford's personal trainer, said Ford was recovering rapidly.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.contactmusic.com/story/harrison-ford-is-recovering-rapidly_4272120 |title=Harrison Ford is recovering rapidly |agency=Bang Showbiz |publisher=[[Contactmusic.com]] |date=July 4, 2014 |access-date=July 4, 2014 |archive-date=July 14, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714180841/http://www.contactmusic.com/story/harrison-ford-is-recovering-rapidly_4272120 |url-status=live}}</ref> Abrams also suffered a fractured vertebra in his back when he was trying to help lift the door after Ford's accident,<ref name="Hiatt" /> but he kept this to himself for over a month.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/jj-abrams-broke-his-back-812387 |title=J.J. Abrams Broke His Back While Filming 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |first=Hilary |last=Lewis |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=July 31, 2015 |access-date=July 31, 2015 |archive-date=August 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150802010629/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/jj-abrams-broke-his-back-812387 |url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2016, it was reported that the [[Health and Safety Executive]] brought four criminal charges against Disney subsidiary Foodles Production (UK), Ltd. for alleged [[Occupational safety and health|health and safety]] breaches relating to Ford's accident.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-35551372 |publisher=[[BBC News]] |title=Star Wars prosecuted over Harrison Ford injury |date=February 11, 2016 |access-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-date=December 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201190514/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-35551372 |url-status=live}}</ref> Foodles Production (UK) Ltd was subsequently fined $1.95&nbsp;million in October 2016 for two health and safety breaches, after admitting the counts at an earlier hearing.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Couch |first1=Aaron |title='Star Wars' Production Company Fined Nearly $2 Million Over Harrison Ford's On-Set Injury |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-production-company-fined-937965 |access-date=October 13, 2016 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 12, 2016 |archive-date=October 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161016015021/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-production-company-fined-937965 |url-status=live}}</ref>


On July 28, 2014, filming took place over three days at [[Skellig Michael]], an island off the coast of [[County Kerry]], Ireland, with a cast including Mark Hamill and Daisy Ridley.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.independent.ie/entertainment/movies/and-action-new-star-wars-film-shoot-kicks-off-on-skellig-michael-30466106.html |title=And ... action! New 'Star Wars' film shoot kicks off on Skellig Michael |first=O'Sullivan |last=Majella |date=July 29, 2014 |work=[[Irish Independent]] |access-date=August 1, 2014 |archive-date=June 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190628200847/https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/movies/and-action-new-star-wars-film-shoot-kicks-off-on-skellig-michael-30466106.html |url-status=live}}</ref> Landscape shots for the planet Takodana were shot in July in the Lake District in the northwest of England.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/star-wars-filmed-lake-district-10597811 |title=Watch: Fascinating video pinpointing exactly where Star Wars scenes were filmed in the Lake District |first=Abbit |last=Beth |date=December 14, 2015 |work=[[Manchester Evening News]] |access-date=April 22, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009061928/http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/star-wars-filmed-lake-district-10597811 |archive-date=October 9, 2016}}</ref> Production was halted for two weeks in early August 2014 so Abrams could rework shooting in Ford's absence and resumed with a fully healed Ford in mid-August.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-resume-725073 |title='Star Wars: Episode VII' to Resume Filming This Month |date=August 13, 2014 |first=Aaron |last=Couch |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=January 10, 2016 |archive-date=January 25, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160125212242/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-episode-vii-resume-725073 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.chron.com/celebritybuzz/2014/08/harrison-ford-to-return-to-star-wars/#25821101=0 |title=Harrison Ford to return to 'Star Wars' |date=August 12, 2014 |work=[[Houston Chronicle]] |access-date=August 14, 2014 |archive-date=August 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819083736/http://blog.chron.com/celebritybuzz/2014/08/harrison-ford-to-return-to-star-wars/#25821101=0 |url-status=live}}</ref> In September, the former [[RAF Greenham Common]] military base in [[Berkshire]] was used and featured set constructions of several spaceships.<ref name=bbc-greenham>{{cite news |title=Star Wars surprise: Millennium Falcon and X-Wing pictured |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-29144135 |access-date=March 20, 2015 |date=September 10, 2014 |publisher=[[BBC News]] |archive-date=April 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150424141819/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-29144135 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Close up photos of the Star Wars: Episode VII Greenham Common set |url=http://makingstarwars.net/2014/09/close-photos-star-wars-episode-vii-greenham-common-set |website=MakingStarWars.net |first=Jason |last=Ward |date=September 21, 2014 |access-date=March 20, 2015 |archive-date=March 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150321192308/http://makingstarwars.net/2014/09/close-photos-star-wars-episode-vii-greenham-common-set/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Puzzlewood]] in the Forest of Dean Gloucestershire England was used for some scenes.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-35109941 |title=Star Wars: Puzzlewood 'magical' location for filming |date=December 17, 2015 |publisher=[[BBC News]] |access-date=December 22, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220020853/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-35109941 |url-status=live}}</ref> Principal photography ended on November 3, 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ritman |first=Alex |date=November 3, 2014 |title='Star Wars: Episode VII' Cast and Crew Celebrate at Huge London Party Amid Talk of Shoot Wrapping |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-episode-vii-cast-745712/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211021215154/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/star-wars-episode-vii-cast-745712/ |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |access-date=October 21, 2021 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref>
Production was halted for two weeks in early August 2014 so Abrams could rework shooting in Ford's absence, and resumed with a fully healed Ford in mid-August. Filming on ''Episode VII'' is expected to wrap up in late<!--DO NOT ADD 'FALL' HERE PER [[WP:SEASON]]--> 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.cnn.com/2014/08/13/showbiz/movies/star-wars-episode-vii-filming/index.html|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII' to resume filming|date = August 13, 2014|work = CNN|accessdate = August 13, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://blog.chron.com/celebritybuzz/2014/08/harrison-ford-to-return-to-star-wars/#25821101=0|title = Harrison Ford to return to 'Star Wars'|date = August 14, 2014|work = Chron|accessdate = August 14, 2014}}</ref> In August, Adam Driver stated he did not believe Lucas was present on set.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://insidemovies.ew.com/2014/08/15/a-galaxy-faraway-so-close-adam-driver-on-the-intimacy-of-star-wars-episode-vii/|title = A galaxy faraway, so close: Adam Driver on the intimacy of 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|date = August 15, 2014|work = Entertainment Weekly|accessdate = August 15, 2014}}</ref> Principal photography ended on November 3, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://uk.yahoo.com/movies/star-wars-episode-vii-extraordinary-cast-and-crew-101668574876.html|title = Star Wars 7: 'Extraordinary' Cast and Crew Hailed As Film Wraps|last = Butler|first = Tom|work = [[Yahoo!]]|date = November 3, 2014|accessdate = November 3, 2014}}</ref>


=== Post-production ===
=== Post-production ===
[[File:1221olympicblvd.jpg|thumb|right|Bad Robot headquarters in Santa Monica, where Abrams supervised post-production of the film]]
Cinematographer Daniel Mindel stated that the film would rely on the employment of real locations and [[Miniature effect|scale models]] over [[computer-generated imagery]] to make the film aesthetically similar to the original ''Star Wars'' trilogy.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://mashable.com/2013/08/22/star-wars-episode-vii-film|title = Star Wars Episode VII to Use Film, Be More Like Original Trilogy|work = mashable.com|accessdate = September 7, 2013}}</ref> [[Rian Johnson]], director of ''Episode VIII'', reiterated that Abrams will use little CGI and more practical, traditional special effects, saying: "I think people are coming back around to [practical effects]. It feels like there is sort of that gravity pulling us back toward it. I think that more and more people are hitting kind of a critical mass in terms of the CG-driven action scene lending itself to a very specific type of action scene, where physics go out the window and it becomes so big so quick.”<ref name="THRJohnson">{{cite web|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/rian-johnson-says-next-star-726036|title = Rian Johnson Says Next 'Star Wars' Will Have Less CGI, More Practical Effects|last = McMillan|first = Graeme|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = August 18, 2014|accessdate = August 18, 2014}}</ref>
Kennedy said ''The Force Awakens'' would use real locations and models over [[computer-generated imagery]].<ref name="CGI">{{Cite web |last=Child |first=Ben |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/jul/29/star-wars-episode-vii-cgi |date=July 29, 2013 |title=Star Wars: Episode VII to limit cheap CGI tricks and keep it real |website=[[The Guardian]] |access-date=March 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210313082040/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/jul/29/star-wars-episode-vii-cgi |archive-date=March 13, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> Johnson reiterated that Abrams would use little CGI and more practical, traditional special effects, saying: "I think people are coming back around to [practical effects]. It feels like there is sort of that gravity pulling us back toward it. I think that more and more people are hitting kind of a critical mass in terms of the CG-driven action scene lending itself to a very specific type of action scene, where physics go out the window and it becomes so big so quick."<ref name="THRJohnson">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/rian-johnson-says-next-star-726036 |title=Rian Johnson Says Next 'Star Wars' Will Have Less CGI, More Practical Effects |last=McMillan |first=Graeme |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=August 18, 2014 |access-date=August 18, 2014 |archive-date=August 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819083717/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/rian-johnson-says-next-star-726036 |url-status=live}}</ref> Abrams' intention in prioritizing practical special effects was to recreate the visual realism and authenticity of the original ''[[Star Wars (film)|Star Wars]]''.<ref name="effects">{{cite web |url=http://au.ign.com/articles/2015/04/16/star-wars-celebration-why-star-wars-7-uses-practical-effects |title=Star Wars Celebration: Why Star Wars 7 Uses Practical Effects |website=[[IGN]] |last=Otero |first=Jose |date=April 16, 2015 |access-date=April 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150422005907/http://au.ign.com/articles/2015/04/16/star-wars-celebration-why-star-wars-7-uses-practical-effects |url-status=live}}</ref> To that end, the droid BB-8 was a physical prop developed by [[Disney Research]],<ref name="Fortune BB-8">{{cite news |last1=Hackett |first1=Robert |title=Disney just developed the most adorable walking robot |url=http://fortune.com/2015/05/26/disney-walking-robot/ |access-date=July 23, 2015 |work=[[Fortune (magazine)|Fortune]] |date=May 26, 2015 |archive-date=August 9, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170809173414/http://fortune.com/2015/05/26/disney-walking-robot/ |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> created by special effects artist [[Neal Scanlan]] and operated live on set with the actors.<ref name="BB-8">{{cite web |url=http://au.ign.com/articles/2014/12/14/mark-hamill-says-star-wars-the-force-awakens-bb-8-is-a-prop-not-cgi |title=Mark Hamill Says Star Wars: The Force Awakens' BB-8 Is a Prop, Not CGI |first=Anthony |last=Couto |website=[[IGN]] |date=December 13, 2014 |access-date=April 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150422005943/http://au.ign.com/articles/2014/12/14/mark-hamill-says-star-wars-the-force-awakens-bb-8-is-a-prop-not-cgi |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Scanlan">{{cite web |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/bb-8-effects |title=Watch Awesome 'The Force Awakens' Droid BB-8 Appear Live on Stage |first=Russ |last=Fischer |website=[[/Film]] |date=April 16, 2015 |access-date=April 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150419201642/http://www.slashfilm.com/bb-8-effects/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The Holochess sequence was created using stop-motion, which was supervised by [[Tippett Studio]] and overseen by [[Phil Tippett]], who also worked on the stop-motion sequence in the original ''Star Wars'' film.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=McFarland |first=Kevin |date=January 22, 2021 |url=https://www.wired.com/2016/01/force-awakens-holochess-process/ |title=The Untold Story Behind The Force Awakens' Best Easter Egg |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] |access-date=October 22, 2021 |url-access=limited |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211121230613/https://www.wired.com/2016/01/force-awakens-holochess-process/ |archive-date=November 21, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Han |first=Angie |date=December 21, 2015 |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/541723/force-awakens-stop-motion/ |title=See How The 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Stop-Motion Sequence Was Created |website=[[/Film]] |access-date=October 22, 2021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211121230515/https://www.slashfilm.com/541723/force-awakens-stop-motion/ |archive-date=November 21, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>


In February 2014, [[Industrial Light & Magic]] (ILM) announced plans to open a facility in London, citing Disney's ''Star Wars'' films as a catalyst for the expansion. ILM's Vancouver branch also worked on the special effects for the film.<ref name="ILM">{{cite news |last=Cohen |first=David |date=February 11, 2014 |title='Star Wars,' 'Avengers' Spawn Industrial Light & Magic's London Expansion |url=https://variety.com/2014/biz/news/industrial-light-magic-london-star-wars-avengers-1201099729/ |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=February 11, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140212202716/http://variety.com/2014/biz/news/industrial-light-magic-london-star-wars-avengers-1201099729/ |archive-date=February 12, 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> Abrams supervised [[post-production]] and editing of the film at Bad Robot's headquarters in Santa Monica.<ref name="Hiatt" /> In August 2015, he gave the film's estimated running time of 124 minutes.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chitwood |first=Adam |date=August 15, 2015 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' — Current Runtime Revealed |url=https://collider.com/star-wars-7-runtime-revealed-at-d23 |publisher=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |access-date=August 16, 2015 |archive-date=August 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150817135319/http://collider.com/star-wars-7-runtime-revealed-at-d23/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Abrams made changes to the film's plot in the editing process to simplify the film, by removing some sequences shown in trailers: "At one point, Maz used to continue along with the characters back to the Resistance base, but we realised that she really had nothing to do there of value [...] So we ended up leaving those things out."<ref name=Independent>{{cite news |last1=Shepherd |first1=Jack |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens: JJ Abrams on why major scene featuring Maz Kanata and Leia was cut |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-jj-abrams-on-why-major-scene-featuring-maz-kanata-and-leia-was-cut-from-a6785171.html |website=[[The Independent]] |date=December 24, 2015 |access-date=December 26, 2015 |archive-date=December 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225125717/http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-jj-abrams-on-why-major-scene-featuring-maz-kanata-and-leia-was-cut-from-a6785171.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The final cut of the film runs for 138 minutes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens |url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/star-wars-the-force-awakens-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0zotmyndc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211021103934/https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/star-wars-the-force-awakens-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0zotmyndc |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |access-date=October 21, 2021 |website=[[British Board of Film Classification]]}}</ref>
In February 2014, [[Industrial Light & Magic]] (ILM) announced plans to open a facility in London, citing Disney's ''Star Wars'' films as a catalyst for the expansion. ILM's Vancouver branch will also work on the special effects for the film.<ref name="ILM">{{cite news |last = Cohen|first = David|date = February 11, 2014|title = 'Star Wars,' 'Avengers' Spawn Industrial Light & Magic's London Expansion|url = http://variety.com/2014/biz/news/industrial-light-magic-london-star-wars-avengers-1201099729/|work = [[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|accessdate = February 11, 2014|archiveurl = http://www.webcitation.org/6NKySmgkP|archivedate = February 11, 2014|deadurl = no}}</ref>

On November 6, 2014, the film's title was announced as ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''.<ref name="title">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-title-747060 |title='Star Wars: Episode VII' Title Revealed |last=Hayden |first=Erik |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=November 6, 2014 |access-date=November 6, 2014 |archive-date=November 9, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141109034943/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-title-747060 |url-status=live}}</ref> In December 2015, [[Pablo Hidalgo]], the creative executive at the Lucasfilm Story Group which handles all the canonical continuity for the ''Star Wars'' universe, revealed that the working title for the film was ''Shadow of the Empire'' "for the longest time".<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/12/27/the-original-title-for-the-force-awakens-revealed.aspx |title=The Original Title for The Force Awakens Revealed |last=Gwaltney |first=Javy |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |date=December 27, 2015 |access-date=December 27, 2015 |archive-date=December 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151229170057/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2015/12/27/the-original-title-for-the-force-awakens-revealed.aspx |url-status=dead}}</ref>

{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2021}}


=== Music ===
=== Music ===
{{Main|Star Wars: The Force Awakens (soundtrack){{!}}''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' (soundtrack)}}
[[John Williams]] was confirmed to compose the score for ''Episode VII'' in July 2013.<ref>{{cite news|last = Hayden|first = Erik|title = John Williams Confirmed to Score 'Star Wars: Episode VII'|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-john-williams-confirmed-594396|accessdate = July 31, 2013|newspaper = The Hollywood Reporter|date = July 27, 2013}}</ref> According to various reports, Williams was expected to travel to Los Angeles in mid-November 2014 to begin work on new music for the teaser trailer.<ref>{{cite news|title = ‘Episode VII’ Trailer Music to be Recorded Nov. 15?|url = http://www.jwfan.com/?p=7181|accessdate = October 26, 2014|newspaper = John Williams Fan Network|date = October 26, 2014}}</ref>
In July 2013, [[John Williams]] was confirmed to return to compose the sequel trilogy, beginning with ''The Force Awakens''.<ref>{{cite news |last=Hayden |first=Erik |title=John Williams Confirmed to Score 'Star Wars: Episode VII' |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-john-williams-confirmed-594396 |access-date=July 31, 2013 |newspaper=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=July 27, 2013 |archive-date=July 30, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130730042028/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-john-williams-confirmed-594396 |url-status=live}}</ref> He began working on the film in December 2014, and by June 2015 had been through most of the film reels, working on a daily basis.<ref name="AFM">{{cite web |url=http://members.afm.org/im/john-williams |title=International Musician John Williams |last=Pine |first=Rachel |publisher=[[American Federation of Musicians]] |access-date=October 18, 2015 |archive-date=July 6, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706155625/http://members.afm.org/im/john-williams |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="variety.com">{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2015/music/awards/oscar-icons-williams-morricone-and-horner-loom-large-in-score-race-1201657637/ |title=Film Score Icons Williams, Morricone and Horner Loom Large in Oscar Race |last=Burlingame |first=Jon |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=December 9, 2015 |access-date=December 12, 2015 |archive-date=December 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151211232345/http://variety.com/2015/music/awards/oscar-icons-williams-morricone-and-horner-loom-large-in-score-race-1201657637/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2015, Williams said he would return to themes from the previous films, such as those for Luke, Leia, and Han, in ways that "there are a few that I think are important and will seem very much a part of the fabric of the piece in a positive and constructive way." He said that working with Abrams was similar to the process he went through with Lucas in the earlier films.<ref name="Williams">{{cite web |url=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2015/05/john-williams-star-wars-the-force-awakens |title=John Williams Says His New Star Wars Score Will Include the Original Themes |last=Handy |first=Bruce |work=[[Vanity Fair (magazine)|Vanity Fair]] |date=May 21, 2015 |access-date=May 23, 2015 |archive-date=May 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523010632/http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2015/05/john-williams-star-wars-the-force-awakens |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref>

Recording sessions for ''The Force Awakens'' began in June 2015 at the [[Sony Pictures Studios]]' Barbra Streisand Scoring Stage in [[Culver City, California|Culver City]], with [[William Ross (composer)|William Ross]] conducting most of the music.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sonypictures.com/studios/scoring.php |title=Scoring |publisher=[[Sony Pictures Studios]] |access-date=November 14, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122161455/http://www.sonypictures.com/studios/scoring.php |archive-date=January 22, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The first day of recording was June 1, 2015.<ref>{{cite web |last=Tveit |first=Elaine |url=https://dorksideoftheforce.com/2015/06/03/report-john-williams-has-begun-recording-the-force-awakens-score/ |title=Report: John Williams Has Begun Scoring The Force Awakens at Sony |website=[[FanSided|Dork Side of the Force]] |date=June 3, 2015 |access-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210129222450/https://dorksideoftheforce.com/2015/06/03/report-john-williams-has-begun-recording-the-force-awakens-score/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Williams attended the sessions and conducted the remainder of the recordings in Los Angeles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fischer |first=Russ |date=March 23, 2015 |title=John Williams Will Record 'The Force Awakens' Score In Los Angeles |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/536871/force-awakens-score/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104225544/https://www.slashfilm.com/536871/force-awakens-score/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 5, 2021 |website=[[/Film]]}}</ref>

The score was recorded in 12 sessions within a five-month period between June and mid-November. The 90-piece orchestra recorded 175 minutes of music; however, Abrams re-edited the film, which discarded, modified, or re-recorded the score's part for nearly an hour. Williams' theme for Snoke was recorded by a 24-voice men's chorus.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sciretta |first=Peter |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/john-williams-force-awakens-score/ |title=Watch John Williams Conduct New Music For 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |website=[[/Film]] |date=December 11, 2015 |access-date=February 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210202214903/https://www.slashfilm.com/john-williams-force-awakens-score/ |archive-date=February 2, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Gustavo Dudamel]] conducted the opening and end title music for the film at Williams' behest.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Grieving |first1=Tim |title='Star Wars' surprise: Gustavo Dudamel conducted parts of 'The Force Awakens' score |url=https://latimes.com/entertainment/arts/culture/la-et-cm-star-wars-music-conductor-gustavo-dudamel-20151214-story.html |access-date=December 15, 2015 |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=December 14, 2015 |archive-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215191141/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/arts/culture/la-et-cm-star-wars-music-conductor-gustavo-dudamel-20151214-story.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> Recording of the score was completed on November 14, 2015.<ref>{{cite web |last=Tylwalk |first=Nick |url=https://dorksideoftheforce.com/2015/11/16/recording-of-the-force-awakens-score-is-finished/ |title=Recording of The Force Awakens Score is Finished |website=[[FanSided|Dork Side of the Force]] |date=November 16, 2015 |access-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210129223656/https://dorksideoftheforce.com/2015/11/16/recording-of-the-force-awakens-score-is-finished/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The film's soundtrack was released by [[Walt Disney Records]] on December 18, 2015.<ref>{{cite web |last=Porter |first=Matt |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens Soundtrack Release Date Revealed |url=https://sea.ign.com/star-wars-episodes-vii/92131/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-soundtrack-release-date-revealed |access-date=January 30, 2021 |website=[[IGN]] |date=September 8, 2015 |archive-date=January 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130233833/https://sea.ign.com/star-wars-episodes-vii/92131/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-soundtrack-release-date-revealed |url-status=live}}</ref> Williams' score is more than two hours long.<ref name="variety.com" />

[[Lin-Manuel Miranda]] and Abrams contributed music to the film's cantina scene. Abrams met Miranda at a performance of his Broadway musical ''[[Hamilton (musical)|Hamilton]]'', where Miranda jokingly offered to compose cantina music, should it be needed. Unknown to Miranda, Williams had previously told Abrams that he did not want to compose the music for that scene, wanting to focus on the orchestral score. Abrams then contacted Miranda, and the two collaborated on the music for the scene over a period of two months.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-cantina-844762 |title='Star Wars': J.J. Abrams Wrote Cantina Band Music with 'Hamilton' Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 1, 2015 |access-date=December 1, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151203220003/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-cantina-844762 |archive-date=December 3, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

== Marketing ==
=== Promotion ===
<!--Please note: any information you wish to add regarding trailer releases MUST comply with WP:TRAILER; that is, you MUST provide COMMENTARY, ANALYSIS AND/OR REACTIONS to the trailer, not simply a format of "On X date, Y trailer was released." Thank you. -->
Disney backed ''The Force Awakens'' with extensive marketing campaigns.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/jul/10/star-wars-the-marketing-force-awakens |title=Star Wars: the marketing force awakens |last=Pulver |first=Andrew |date=July 10, 2015 |quote=Disney has brought a whole new level of marketing savvy to an already popular product |work=[[The Guardian]] |access-date=January 10, 2016 |archive-date=December 4, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151204215405/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/jul/10/star-wars-the-marketing-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2015/voices/columns/star-wars-marketing-the-force-awakens-1201657875/ |title=The Main Force Driving Audiences to 'Star Wars' Is Marketing |last=Bart |first=Peter |date=December 11, 2015 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=January 10, 2015 |archive-date=December 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151212181838/http://variety.com/2015/voices/columns/star-wars-marketing-the-force-awakens-1201657875/ |url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Deadline Hollywood]]'' estimated the media value was $175&nbsp;million;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/06/star-wars-vii-third-highest-grossing-film-forecast-1201452210/ |title='Star Wars VII' Could Become The 3rd Highest Grossing Film Ever – Analyst |first=David |last=Lieberman |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=June 23, 2015 |access-date=June 25, 2015 |archive-date=June 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150624181131/http://deadline.com/2015/06/star-wars-vii-third-highest-grossing-film-forecast-1201452210/ |url-status=live}}</ref> its costs alongside home media revenues had later risen to $423&nbsp;million by ''[[The Guardian]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/jun/24/star-wars-the-force-awakens-likely-to-make-2bn-at-box-office |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens likely to make $2bn at box office |first=Ben |last=Child |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=UK |date=June 24, 2015 |access-date=June 25, 2015 |archive-date=July 30, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150730214137/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/jun/24/star-wars-the-force-awakens-likely-to-make-2bn-at-box-office |url-status=live}}</ref> On November 28, 2014, Lucasfilm released an 88-second [[teaser campaign|teaser trailer]]. It was screened in selected cinemas across the United States and Canada and in theaters worldwide in December 2014. It was also released on YouTube and the [[iTunes Store]],<ref name="TraileriTunes">{{cite web |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Trailer Debuts Friday on Apple's iTunes |url=http://recode.net/2014/11/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-debuts-friday-on-apples-itunes/ |last=Chmielewski |first=Dawn |work=[[Recode]] |date=November 26, 2014 |access-date=November 28, 2014 |archive-date=November 30, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141130033651/http://recode.net/2014/11/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-debuts-friday-on-apples-itunes/ |url-status=live}}</ref> generating 58.2&nbsp;million views on YouTube in its first week.<ref>{{cite web |title=Trailer Report: 'Star Wars' Teaser Beats 'Age of Ultron' In Debut |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/trailer-report-star-wars-teaser-753113?mobile_redirect=false |last=Lewis |first=Andy |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 1, 2014 |access-date=December 2, 2014 |archive-date=March 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150306025753/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/trailer-report-star-wars-teaser-753113?mobile_redirect=false |url-status=live}}</ref> Critics compared the brief footage favorably to the production values of the original trilogy. ''[[The Hollywood Reporter]]'' called the trailer "perfectly potent nostalgia", praising its mix of old and new.<ref name="hollywoodreporter_281114">{{cite news |last1=McMillan |first1=Graeme |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Teaser: Perfectly Potent Nostalgia Strikes Back |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-teaser-752743 |access-date=April 19, 2015 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=November 28, 2014 |archive-date=April 13, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150413202851/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-teaser-752743 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]]'' was impressed by the continuity with the first films—"the ''feel'' of classic ''Star Wars''"—but noted the absence of Hamill, Ford, and Fisher and speculated about the significance of the new characters.<ref name="empire_281114">{{cite web |last1=Plumb |first1=Ali |title=The Teaser Trailer For Star Wars: The Force Awakens Arrives |url=https://www.empireonline.com/news/story.asp?NID=42867 |work=[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]] |access-date=April 19, 2015 |date=November 28, 2014 |archive-date=March 31, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150331044643/http://www.empireonline.com/news/story.asp?NID=42867 |url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[The Guardian]]'' wrote that the use of the ''Star Wars'' fanfare by John Williams reinforced [[brand loyalty]] among fans.<ref name="guardian_011214">{{cite news |last1=Bradshaw |first1=Peter |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer – a classic recipe trailed across the taste buds |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2014/nov/28/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-jj-abrams |access-date=April 19, 2015 |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=UK |date=December 1, 2014 |archive-date=April 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418154537/http://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2014/nov/28/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-jj-abrams |url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Star wars force awakens film promotion nuremberg 2015.JPG|thumb|Large-scale outdoor advertising for ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' in the city center of Nuremberg, Germany]]
On December 11, 2014, Abrams and Kennedy released a series of eight mock [[Topps]] [[Star Wars trading card|trading cards]] revealing the names of several characters.<ref name="CharacterNames">{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2014/12/11/star-wars-the-force-awakens-character-names/ |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' character names revealed – exclusive |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=December 11, 2014 |access-date=February 3, 2021 |archive-date=February 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203015731/https://ew.com/article/2014/12/11/star-wars-the-force-awakens-character-names/ |url-status=live}}</ref> On April 16, 2015, a second teaser trailer, this one lasting two minutes, was shown at the opening panel at the [[Star Wars Celebration|''Star Wars'' Celebration]] in [[Anaheim, California]]. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy said the reaction to the trailer was "staggering [...] the entire room of almost eight thousand people just leapt to their feet and roared, I mean I can't think of anything I've ever been to—other than a rock concert—that felt quite like that".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Mzimba |first1=Lizo |title=Star Wars executive 'staggered' by teaser reaction |date=April 20, 2015 |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-32382844 |publisher=[[BBC News]] |access-date=April 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150421001743/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-32382844 |url-status=live}}</ref> The trailer was viewed over 88{{nbsp}}million times within the first 24 hours of release.<ref name="Yahoo">{{cite news |last1=Burlingame |first1=Russ |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens Trailer Viewed 88 Million Times In 24 Hours |url=https://comicbook.com/2015/04/20/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-viewed-88-million-times-in-2/ |access-date=April 19, 2015 |publisher=[[ComicBook.com]] |date=April 19, 2015 |archive-date=April 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150421070001/http://comicbook.com/2015/04/20/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-viewed-88-million-times-in-2/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> The trailer shows many of the new characters and the first footage of Chewbacca and Han Solo. ''[[The Huffington Post]]''{{'}}s Graham Milne wrote that the trailer "was an affirmation of something that we'd long been told was never going to happen. This was a gift. This was faith rewarded. About damn time."<ref name="The Huffington Post">{{cite news |last1=Miline |first1=Graham |title=Chewie, We're Home. |url=https://huffingtonpost.com/graham-milne/chewie-were-home_b_7089310.html |access-date=April 20, 2015 |work=[[The Huffington Post]] |date=April 20, 2015 |archive-date=April 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150423024137/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/graham-milne/chewie-were-home_b_7089310.html |url-status=live}}</ref>

''[[Vanity Fair (magazine)|Vanity Fair]]'' was the first magazine to release an exclusive cover issue devoted to ''The Force Awakens''. The magazine, released on May 7, 2015, featured exclusive interviews and photos of the cast photographed by [[Annie Leibovitz]].<ref name="VanityFair">{{cite news |title=Star Wars Cover: J.J. Abrams Reveals His Idea to Kill Jar Jar Binks |url=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2015/05/star-wars-the-force-awakens-vanity-fair-cover |work=[[Vanity Fair (magazine)|Vanity Fair]] |access-date=May 6, 2015 |archive-date=May 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505172703/http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2015/05/star-wars-the-force-awakens-vanity-fair-cover |url-status=dead |url-access=limited}}</ref> At the 2015 [[San Diego Comic-Con]], in addition to a panel with many of the actors, a behind-the-scenes look at the film demonstrated the film's use of practical sets and effects. It was positively received, with Nigel M. Smith of ''The Guardian'' writing: "The featurette's angle is a strong one and connects with fans of the original trilogy in an incredibly poignant way. It also does a sly job of teasing Fisher's new look as Leia and Simon Pegg's mysterious involvement as a rumored alien in the movie, without actually showing the actors in action." Smith compared the marketing strategy for the film to that of a previous Abrams film, ''[[Super 8 (2011 film)|Super 8]]'', saying "the promos [...] are notable for what they tease, not what they give away."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/jul/13/comic-con-star-wars-force-awakens-batman-superman |title=Comic-Con: Why the Force was with Star Wars and not Batman v Superman |last=Smith |first=Nigel M. |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=UK |date=July 13, 2015 |access-date=July 16, 2015 |archive-date=August 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150812213443/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/jul/13/comic-con-star-wars-force-awakens-batman-superman |url-status=live}}</ref>

Walt Disney Studios and Lucasfilm presented a look at ''The Force Awakens'' at Disney's [[D23 (Disney)|D23 Expo]] in August 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lincoln |first1=Ross |title=Disney To Tease 'Captain America: Civil War', 'The Force Awakens', More At D23 Expo 2015 |url=https://deadline.com/2015/07/star-wars-and-captain-america-to-be-teased-at-d23-1201482934/ |access-date=August 17, 2015 |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=July 21, 2015 |archive-date=August 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150811063316/https://deadline.com/2015/07/star-wars-and-captain-america-to-be-teased-at-d23-1201482934/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Drew Struzan]]—who designed the poster artwork for the previous ''Star Wars'' films—produced a commemorative poster given to the event's attendees.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gilman |first1=Greg |title=New 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Poster Highlights Aging Han Solo, New Jedi (Photo) |url=https://thewrap.com/star-wars-the-force-awakens-first-poster-highlights-aging-han-solo-new-jedi-photo/ |access-date=August 17, 2015 |work=[[TheWrap]] |date=August 15, 2015 |archive-date=August 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150816173604/http://www.thewrap.com/star-wars-the-force-awakens-first-poster-highlights-aging-han-solo-new-jedi-photo/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2015, Lucasfilm unveiled the theatrical release poster and a third trailer. The poster omitted Luke Skywalker and revealed a Death Star-like "orb".<ref name="verge10202015">{{cite web |work=[[The Verge]] |url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/10/20/9572469/new-star-wars-7-trailer-3-analysis |title=Every new scene in the third Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer, analyzed |access-date=October 20, 2015 |first1=Rich |last1=McCormick |first2=Ross |last2=Miller |date=October 20, 2015 |archive-date=October 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151020192649/http://www.theverge.com/2015/10/20/9572469/new-star-wars-7-trailer-3-analysis |url-status=live}}</ref> The trailer debuted during the halftime break of ''[[Monday Night Football]]'', before being released online.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Rafferty |first=Scott |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-news/new-force-awakens-trailer-premiering-on-monday-night-football-197991/ |title=New 'Force Awakens' Trailer Premiering on 'Monday Night Football' |date=October 16, 2015 |magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] |access-date=February 3, 2021 |archive-date=February 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203021855/https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-news/new-force-awakens-trailer-premiering-on-monday-night-football-197991/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> The reaction to the trailer by fans on social media was "frenzied", with Lizo Mzimba of the [[BBC]] writing that "perhaps the most significant thing about the final trailer before the film's release is how little of the story it reveals."<ref>{{cite news |author=Staff |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens: Frenzied social media reaction to trailer |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-34579451 |publisher=[[BBC News]] |location=London, UK |date=October 20, 2015 |access-date=October 20, 2015 |archive-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203115541/https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-34579451 |url-status=live}}</ref> Robbie Collin of ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'' felt the trailer was "a perfect blend of old and new, in keeping with the old-fashioned ''Star Wars'' aesthetic".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Collin |first1=Robbie |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer: 'evokes the spirit of the original trilogy' |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/star-wars-the-force-awakens/trailer-3-review |website=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=October 20, 2015 |access-date=October 20, 2015 |archive-date=October 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021054335/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/star-wars-the-force-awakens/trailer-3-review/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> The trailer received 128{{nbsp}}million views in 24 hours. 16&nbsp;million of the views came from its airing on ''Monday Night Football''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-trailer-834220 |title='Star Wars: Force Awakens' Trailer Viewed 112 Million Times in 24 Hours |first=Rebecca |last=Ford |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 23, 2015 |access-date=October 24, 2015 |archive-date=October 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151024145600/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-trailer-834220 |url-status=live}}</ref> At the end of October, [[Air France]] announced a "Flight and Cinema" package, providing customers who book select flights to Paris transportation to a theater to see the film, since France was one of the first countries to release the film.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Albert |first1=Brian |title=Fly Air France to See 'The Force Awakens' 2 Days Early |url=https://ign.com/articles/2015/10/28/fly-air-france-to-see-the-force-awakens-2-days-early |website=[[IGN]] |date=October 28, 2015 |access-date=November 4, 2015 |archive-date=November 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151102065810/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/10/28/fly-air-france-to-see-the-force-awakens-2-days-early |url-status=live}}</ref> On November 23, a partnership with [[Google]] was announced, in which Google users could choose to affiliate themselves with either the Dark or Light Side, which would change the appearance of their Google websites. Additionally, Disney teamed up with [[Verizon Wireless|Verizon]] to create a virtual-reality experience for [[Google Cardboard]].<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Google's 'Star Wars' promo lets you go to the dark side (or the light) |url=https://ew.com/article/2015/11/23/google-star-wars-promo-force-awakens |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |access-date=November 29, 2015 |archive-date=November 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125193250/http://www.ew.com/article/2015/11/23/google-star-wars-promo-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref>

On December 17, 2015, select theaters across the United States and Canada aired a ''Star Wars'' marathon, airing the six previous ''Star Wars'' episode films in 2D, followed by ''The Force Awakens'' in [[3D film|3D]]. Attendees received a special lanyard featuring exclusive marathon art.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/96628/20151017/fandango-offers-star-wars-movie-marathons-including-force-awakens-premiere.htm |title=Fandango Offers Star Wars Movie Marathons Including 'The Force Awakens' Premiere |publisher=Tech Times |date=October 17, 2015 |access-date=October 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225151531/http://www.techtimes.com/articles/96628/20151017/fandango-offers-star-wars-movie-marathons-including-force-awakens-premiere.htm |archive-date=December 25, 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Tie-in literature and merchandise ===
[[Disney Publishing Worldwide]] and Lucasfilm announced a series of at least 20 books and comics, "[[Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens|Journey to ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'']]", which were released by multiple publishers starting in late 2015, prior to the film's premiere. The series includes books by Del Rey and Disney-Lucasfilm publishers and comic books from [[Marvel Comics]]. All titles under the program are canonical to the ''Star Wars'' universe.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2015/03/09/star-wars-release-20-books-journey-force-awakens |title=''Star Wars'' to release 20 books in journey to ''The Force Awakens'' |first=Anthony |last=Breznican |author-link=Anthony Breznican |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=March 10, 2015 |access-date=March 10, 2015 |archive-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203115543/https://ew.com/article/2015/03/09/journey-force-awakens/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Alan Dean Foster]] wrote [[Star Wars: The Force Awakens (novel)|a novelization]] of ''The Force Awakens'' which was released in e-book form on December 18.<ref name=jtrac>{{cite news |last1=Trachtenberg |first1=Jeffrey |title=''Star Wars'' Cloak of Secrecy Extends to Tie-In Book |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/star-wars-cloak-of-secrecy-extends-to-tie-in-book-1446427301 |access-date=December 25, 2015 |newspaper=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |date=November 2, 2015 |archive-date=December 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225042141/http://www.wsj.com/articles/star-wars-cloak-of-secrecy-extends-to-tie-in-book-1446427301 |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> In an effort to avoid revealing plot details before the film's release, the print release of the novelization was delayed until January 2016.<ref name=jtrac /> Marvel Comics published a six-issue comic book adaptation of ''The Force Awakens'' between June and November 2016.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/article/exclusive-marvel-publish-star-wars-force-awakens-comic-adaptation |title=Exclusive: Marvel Announces 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Adaptation |last=White |first=Brett |publisher=[[Comic Book Resources]] |date=February 19, 2016 |access-date=February 19, 2016 |archive-date=February 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160220094838/http://www.comicbookresources.com/article/exclusive-marvel-publish-star-wars-force-awakens-comic-adaptation |url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Disney Consumer Products]] and Lucasfilm announced that September 4, 2015 would be deemed "Force Friday" and would be the official launch of all the merchandise for ''The Force Awakens''. Beginning at 12:01&nbsp;am, fans could buy toys, books, clothing and various other products at [[Disney Store]]s and other retailers throughout the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://comingsoon.net/movies/news/436401-star-wars-the-force-awakens-products-coming-on-september-4#/slide/1 |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens Products Coming on September 4 |publisher=[[ComingSoon.net]] |date=May 3, 2015 |access-date=May 3, 2015 |archive-date=May 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150505204809/http://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/436401-star-wars-the-force-awakens-products-coming-on-september-4#/slide/1 |url-status=live}}</ref> Disney and [[Maker Studios]] hosted an 18-hour [[Streaming media|live-streaming]] presentation on YouTube, showcasing multiple merchandise products beginning on September 3, 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last=McNary |first=Dave |author-link=Dave McNary |title=Disney Sets Massive 'Star Wars' Toy Promotion |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-toy-launch-1201577729 |access-date=August 27, 2015 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=August 26, 2015 |archive-date=August 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150827120333/http://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-toy-launch-1201577729/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=McMillan |first1=Graeme |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Toys to Be Unveiled During 18-Hour YouTube Marathon |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-toys-817851 |access-date=August 27, 2015 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=August 26, 2015 |archive-date=August 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150829005042/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-toys-817851 |url-status=live}}</ref> Among these products were a remote-controlled BB-8 developed by [[Sphero]].<ref name="Fortune BB-8" /> Sphero had participated in a Disney-run startup accelerator in July 2014, where they were invited into a private meeting with Disney CEO Bob Iger, in which they were shown on-set photos and imagery of BB-8 before its public unveiling.<ref name="wired-bb8">{{cite magazine |title=The Story (And Tech) Behind That Awesome Star Wars BB-8 Toy |url=https://www.wired.com/2015/09/bb8-the-inside-story/ |access-date=September 5, 2015 |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] |archive-date=July 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180715181750/https://www.wired.com/2015/09/bb8-the-inside-story/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref name="thenational-bb8">{{cite web |title=Disney's support for start-ups led to one new company winning a dream Star Wars contract |url=http://www.thenational.ae/arts-lifestyle/film/disneys-support-for-start-ups-led-to-one-new-company-winning-a-dream-star-wars-contract |first=Ryan |last=Nakashima |date=August 15, 2015 |work=[[The National (Abu Dhabi)|The National]] |location=Abu Dhabi |access-date=September 5, 2015 |archive-date=June 13, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170613050526/http://www.thenational.ae/arts-lifestyle/film/disneys-support-for-start-ups-led-to-one-new-company-winning-a-dream-star-wars-contract |url-status=live}}</ref> Many retailers, such as [[Toys "R" Us]], were unable to meet demand for ''Star Wars'' products due to the event.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://io9.com/force-friday-was-a-disaster-for-many-star-wars-fans-1728765957 |title=Force Friday Was A Disaster For Many Star Wars Fans |last=Lussier |first=Germain |website=[[io9]] |date=September 4, 2015 |access-date=September 6, 2015 |archive-date=September 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905173602/http://io9.com/force-friday-was-a-disaster-for-many-star-wars-fans-1728765957 |url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Video games ===
Select characters, scenes and locations from the film became part of other ''Star Wars'' video games: Characters from the film were added to an update to the [[mobile game]] ''[[Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes]]'', available for [[iOS]] and [[Android (operating system)|Android]] and released by [[Electronic Arts]];<ref>{{cite web |last1=Paget |first1=Mat |title=Star Wars 7: The Force Awakens Characters Join Galaxy of Heroes |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/star-wars-7-the-force-awakens-characters-join-gala/1100-6433206/ |website=[[GameSpot]] |date=December 17, 2015 |access-date=January 28, 2021 |archive-date=January 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128220514/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/star-wars-7-the-force-awakens-characters-join-gala/1100-6433206/ |url-status=live}}</ref> free [[downloadable content]] for Electronic Arts' ''[[Star Wars Battlefront (2015 video game)|Star Wars Battlefront]]'' [[Reboot (fiction)|reboot]] allowed players to battle on the planet Jakku;<ref>{{cite web |title=How to get Battle of Jakku DLC |url=http://starwars.ea.com/starwars/battlefront/news/how-to-get-the-star-wars-battlefront-battle-of-jakku-dlc |website=Star Wars EA |access-date=April 19, 2015 |ref=17 |archive-date=April 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150422004522/http://starwars.ea.com/starwars/battlefront/news/how-to-get-the-star-wars-battlefront-battle-of-jakku-dlc |url-status=dead}}</ref> an update to the mobile game ''[[Star Wars Commander]]'', released by [[Disney Mobile]] for iOS, Android and the [[Windows Store]], allowed players to battle on the planet Takodana during the Galactic Civil War era;<ref>{{Cite web |last=Minotti |first=Mike |date=December 3, 2015 |title=The Force Awakens comes to Star Wars: Commander |url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/12/03/the-force-awakens-comes-to-star-wars-commander/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104045249/https://venturebeat.com/2015/12/03/the-force-awakens-comes-to-star-wars-commander/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 4, 2021 |website=[[VentureBeat]]}}</ref> and a condensed version of the film's plot becomes an add-on "playset" in the [[toys-to-life]] game ''[[Disney Infinity 3.0]]'', with Finn, Rey, Poe Dameron, and Kylo Ren as playable characters.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://venturebeat.com/2015/12/09/disney-infinitys-star-wars-the-force-awakens-lets-john-boyega-play-with-himself/ |title=Disney Infinity's 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' lets John Boyega play with himself |website=[[VentureBeat]] |first=Giancarlo |last=Valdes |date=December 9, 2015 |access-date=February 8, 2021 |archive-date=February 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210208105651/https://venturebeat.com/2015/12/09/disney-infinitys-star-wars-the-force-awakens-lets-john-boyega-play-with-himself/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Eventually, the film got a full [[Lego]] video game adaptation, titled ''[[Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens]]'', which was released by [[Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment]] on June 28, 2016.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ign.com/articles/2016/02/02/lego-star-wars-ep-7-confirmed-details-and-deluxe-editions-revealed |title=LEGO Star Wars Ep.7 Confirmed, Details And Deluxe Editions Announced |first=Seth |last=G. Macy |website=[[IGN]] |date=February 2, 2016 |access-date=January 3, 2016 |archive-date=February 2, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160202153931/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/02/02/lego-star-wars-ep-7-confirmed-details-and-deluxe-editions-revealed |url-status=live}}</ref>


== Release ==
== Release ==
=== Theatrical ===
In November 2013, ''The Force Awakens'' was given the release date of December 18, 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://insidemovies.ew.com/2013/11/07/star-wars-episode-vii-release-set-for-december-18-2015-breaking|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII': Release set for December 18, 2015|last = Breznican|first = Anthony|work = Entertainment Weekly|date = November 7, 2013|accessdate = November 7, 2013}}</ref> In March 2014, Disney confirmed that ''Episode VII'' will be released in [[IMAX]].<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=116262|title = Disney to Release Avengers: Age of Ultron, Star Wars: Episode VII in IMAX|work = ComingSoon.net|date = March 20, 2014|accessdate = March 20, 2014}}</ref> On November 6, 2014, the title of the film was officially announced as ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''.<ref name="title">{{cite web|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-episode-vii-title-747060|title = 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Title Revealed|last = Hayden|first = Erik|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = November 6, 2014|accessdate = November 6, 2014}}</ref> Despite previously being known simply as ''Star Wars Episode VII'', and not having ''Episode VII'' in the title, ''Episode VII'' will still be featured in the [[Star Wars opening crawl|opening crawl]].<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.theforce.net/story/front/Star_Wars_Episode_VII_Will_Be_Called_The_Force_Awakens_160763.asp|title = Star Wars: Episode VII Will Be Called The Force Awakens|author = Eric|work = TheForce.net|date = November 6, 2014|accessdate = November 7, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:The Force Awakens premiere.jpg|thumb|The premiere tent, with the film's poster above]]
''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' premiered on December 14, 2015, at the [[TCL Chinese Theatre]], [[El Capitan Theatre]], and [[Dolby Theatre]] in [[Hollywood, Los Angeles]].<ref name=premiere>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-premiere-preparation-1201659677/ |title='Star Wars' Premiere: Fans, Security to Bring the Force |last1=Rainey |first1=James |last2=Sage |first2=Alyssa |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=December 11, 2015 |access-date=December 12, 2015 |archive-date=December 13, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151213071052/http://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-premiere-preparation-1201659677/ |url-status=live}}</ref> A white tent stretched along [[Hollywood Boulevard]] from Orange Drive to [[Highland Avenue (Los Angeles)|Highland Avenue]], covering the "massive" premiere event that hosted more than five thousand guests.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-party-848517 |title=Inside the ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' World Premiere and Party |last1=Ford |first1=Rebecca |last2=Kit |first2=Borys |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215215631/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-party-848517 |url-status=live}}</ref> The film was originally scheduled for a mid-2015 release, but in November 2013, it was pushed back to December 18, 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Child |first=Ben |date=November 8, 2013 |title=Star Wars Episode VII pushed back to Christmas 2015 |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/nov/08/star-wars-episode-7-release-date-jj-abrams |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131108220537/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/nov/08/star-wars-episode-7-release-date-jj-abrams |archive-date=November 8, 2013 |access-date=November 17, 2021 |website=[[The Guardian]]}}</ref> It was also released in 3D, [[RealD 3D]] and [[IMAX 3D]] formats.<ref>{{cite web |last=McClintock |first=Pamela |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-will-847014 |title='Star Wars: Force Awakens' Will Debut in 3D, a First for the Franchise |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 12, 2015 |access-date=February 2, 2021 |archive-date=February 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210202230326/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-will-847014 |url-status=live}}</ref>


In the United States and Canada, it had the widest release of December across 4,134 theaters,<ref name="WideRelease">{{cite web |last1=Busch |first1=Anita |last2=D'Alessandro |first2=Anthony |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-theaters-security-increase-1201668814/ |title='Star Wars' Theaters Tighten Security Due To Heavy Crowds And Suspicious Activity |date=December 17, 2015 |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |access-date=February 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218214030/https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-theaters-security-increase-1201668814/ |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> of which 3,300 were 3D locations, a record 392 IMAX screens (13 of which were [[70 mm film|70mm]]), 451 premium large format screens, 146 [[D-Box Technologies|D-Box]] locations,<ref name="theforce1">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-preview-star-wars-848331 |title=Box-Office Preview: 'Star Wars: Force Awakens' Gets Widest December Release of All Time |last=McClintock |first=Pamela |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 14, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215032524/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-preview-star-wars-848331 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="theforce2">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-all-time-record-box-office-opening-1201666595/ |title=Planet Earth Braces For 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' To Make Intergalactic B.O. History |last1=D'Alessandro |first1=Anthony |last2=Tartaglione |first2=Nancy |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 14, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215222702/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-all-time-record-box-office-opening-1201666595/ |url-status=live}}</ref> as well as releasing in the [[HDR10|Dolby Vision]] format ([[High-dynamic-range rendering|high-dynamic range]], [[Rec. 2020]] color) in [[Dolby Cinema]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/behind-screen/star-wars-dolby-cinema-release-840567 |title='Star Wars' Dolby Cinema Release Could Push Forward the New Format |first=Carolyn |last=Giardina |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=November 16, 2015 |access-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117142329/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/behind-screen/star-wars-dolby-cinema-release-840567 |url-status=live}}</ref> Worldwide, it was released across 940 IMAX theaters, a new record.<ref name="theforce2" /> On December 18, 2015, the film began playing on every IMAX screen in the United States and Canada for four straight weeks up to January 14, 2016. This made it the first film since [[Warner Bros.]]' [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' trilogy]] to receive such a release.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-set-817709 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Set to Take Over Imax for a Month |first=Gregg |last=Kilday |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=August 26, 2015 |access-date=August 26, 2015 |archive-date=August 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150826222122/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-set-817709 |url-status=live}}</ref> The film finally shed some of its IMAX screens with the release of ''[[The Revenant (2015 film)|The Revenant]]'' (2015) and ''[[The Finest Hours (2016 film)|The Finest Hours]]'' (2016) in mid-January 2016.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/01/30/box-office-revenant-and-star-wars-the-force-awakens-top-holdovers-on-friday/#274c807a4ed0 |title=Box Office: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Crosses $885M, 'The Revenant' Tops Holdovers On Friday |first=Scott |last=Mendelson |work=[[Forbes]] |date=January 30, 2016 |access-date=January 31, 2016 |archive-date=February 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201221859/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/01/30/box-office-revenant-and-star-wars-the-force-awakens-top-holdovers-on-friday/#274c807a4ed0 |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref>
=== Marketing ===
The first teaser trailer made its debut on November 28, 2014; from the 28th through the 30th, the trailer aired prior to every film being shown in 30 theaters across the United States and Canada, and will appear globally in theaters in December 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-trailer-751885|title = 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens': Here's Where to See the First Teaser|last = McMillian|first = Graeme|work = The Hollywood Reporter|date = November 24, 2014|accessdate = November 24, 2014}}</ref> Although it was originally reported that the trailer would be exclusively exhibited in theaters, the trailer was also released online the same day.<ref>{{cite web|title = “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Trailer Debuts Friday on Apple’s iTunes|url = http://recode.net/2014/11/26/star-wars-the-force-awakens-trailer-debuts-friday-on-apples-itunes/|last = Chmielewski|first = Dawn|publisher = Re/code|date = November 26, 2014|accessdate = November 28, 2014}}</ref> The trailer generated a record 58.2 million views on [[YouTube]] on its first week since its debut, surpassing ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]'' with 50.6 million views and ''[[Jurassic World]]'' with 53.9 million views.<ref>{{cite web|title = Trailer Report: 'Star Wars' Teaser Beats 'Age of Ultron' In Debut|url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/trailer-report-star-wars-teaser-753113?mobile_redirect=false|last = Lewis|first = Andy|publisher = [[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date = December 1, 2014|accessdate = December 2, 2014}}</ref>


Advance ticket sales for the film began on October 19, 2015,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/19/entertainment/star-wars-tickets-sale-thr-feat/index.html |title='Star Wars' tickets go on sale after trailer debut on Monday Night Football |publisher=[[CNN]] |date=October 19, 2015 |access-date=October 19, 2015 |archive-date=October 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151019125025/http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/19/entertainment/star-wars-tickets-sale-thr-feat/index.html |url-status=live}}</ref> and were in strong demand, resulting in online movie ticket sites crashing.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-presales-833144 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Presales Crash Movie Ticket Sites |first1=Ryan |last1=Gajewski |first2=Pamela |last2=McClintock |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 19, 2015 |access-date=October 19, 2015 |archive-date=October 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021042915/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-presales-833144 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-advance-ticket-demand-832977 |title='Star Wars' Advance Ticket Demand Crashes U.K. Theater Websites |last=Ritman |first=Alex |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 19, 2015 |access-date=October 19, 2015 |archive-date=October 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151020231524/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-advance-ticket-demand-832977 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Vue Cinemas]], the United Kingdom's third-largest theater chain, sold 45,000 tickets in 24 hours, 10,000 of which were sold in 90 minutes, a record for the theater.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-advance-sales-uk-833212 |title='Star Wars' Advance Ticket Sales Set Record for U.K. Exhibitor |first=Alex |last=Ritman |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 20, 2015 |access-date=October 20, 2015 |archive-date=October 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021130929/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-advance-sales-uk-833212 |url-status=live}}</ref> In the United States, the film pre-sold a record-breaking $6.5&nbsp;million worth of IMAX ticket sales on a single day. IMAX has never previously registered more than $1&nbsp;million in pre-sales on a single day.<ref name="IMAXsales">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-scores-833360 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Scores $6.5M in IMAX Ticket Sales |first=Rebecca |last=Ford |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=October 20, 2015 |access-date=October 20, 2015 |archive-date=October 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021123627/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/star-wars-force-awakens-scores-833360 |url-status=live}}</ref> In total, it sold over $50&nbsp;million in pre-sales, breaking the record.<ref name="THG">{{cite web |url=https://latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-advance-ticketing-20151210-story.html#nt=outfit |title='Star Wars' is latest film to show why Hollywood wants you to buy tickets in advance |first=Ryan |last=Faughnder |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=December 10, 2015 |access-date=December 13, 2015 |archive-date=December 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151212140315/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-star-wars-advance-ticketing-20151210-story.html#nt=outfit |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref name="THRproj" /> This number was raised to $100&nbsp;million including $50–60&nbsp;million in advance ticket sales by December 14.<ref name="THRproj">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-advance-849156 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Advance Ticket Sales Cross Historic $100M |first=Pamela |last=McClintock |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 16, 2015 |archive-date=December 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151216172254/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-advance-849156 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Deadproj">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-all-time-record-box-office-opening-1201666595/ |title=Planet Earth Braces For 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' To Make Intergalactic B.O. History |first1=Anthony |last1=D'Alessandro |first2=Nancy |last2=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 14, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151215222702/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-all-time-record-box-office-opening-1201666595/ |url-status=live}}</ref> However, not all tickets that were pre-sold were for the film's opening weekend, with [[Fandango (ticket service)|Fandango]] President Paul Yanover saying "people have set aside tickets for screenings in January, weeks after the big opening [...] We have people buying ''Star Wars'' [''The Force Awakens''] into 2016. It's not just an opening-weekend phenomenon."<ref name="THG" /> Similarly, the film broke pre-sales records in the UK,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-uk-presales-record-848921 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Sets U.K. Pre-Sales Record With 'Way Beyond 1 Million' Tickets |first=Alex |last=Ritman |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218004218/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-uk-presales-record-848921 |url-status=live}}</ref> Canada,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-sales-canada-sees-848926 |title='Star Wars' Sales in Canada Sees Premium Seats Go First |first=Etan |last=Vlessing |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=January 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160124221333/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-sales-canada-sees-848926 |url-status=live}}</ref> and Germany.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-german-848924 |title=Box-Office Preview: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Breaks German Pre-Sales Record But Police Warn of Security Concerns |first=Scott |last=Roxborough |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218004208/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-wars-force-awakens-german-848924 |url-status=live}}</ref>
Disney and Lucasfilm introduced fans to new characters through images styled after Topps trading cards in December 2014. Among the names revealed are [[Oscar Isaac]]’s character as Poe Dameron, [[Daisy Ridley]]’s character as Rey, [[John Boyega]]’s Stormtrooper character as Finn, the unseen Sith as Kylo Ren, and the infamous “ball droid” as BB-8. <ref>http://www.comingsoon.net/movies/news/391555-names-of-the-star-wars-the-force-awakens-characters-revealed</ref>

''The Force Awakens'' is the first live-action<!-- i.e. not including ''The Clone Wars'' (CGI), distributed by WB --> ''Star Wars'' film not to be released theatrically by [[20th Century Fox]]; accordingly the film is not introduced with either that company's logo, or its signature fanfare composed by [[Alfred Newman (composer)|Alfred Newman]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Molloy |first1=Tim |title='Star Wars VII' Will Have Major Change to Opening: No Fox Fanfare |url=https://thewrap.com/next-star-wars-will-major-change-opening-fox-fanfare |access-date=January 3, 2016 |work=[[TheWrap]] |date=November 8, 2013 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220125054/http://www.thewrap.com/next-star-wars-will-major-change-opening-fox-fanfare/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Instead, the film is the first in the series to be distributed by [[Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures]],<ref name="BOM" /> and the film is presented with only Lucasfilm's [[production logo]] shown silently before the main titles.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Fritz |first1=Ben |title=Inside the World Premiere of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |url=https://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2015/12/15/inside-the-world-premiere-of-star-wars-the-force-awakens/ |access-date=January 3, 2016 |work=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |date=December 15, 2015 |quote=...the Lucasfilm logo preceding the movie (there was no Disney logo)... |archive-date=January 2, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160102015427/http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2015/12/15/inside-the-world-premiere-of-star-wars-the-force-awakens/ |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> Disney chairman Bob Iger explained that the decision not to place Disney branding on the film was "for the fans".<ref name="screencrush-iger">{{cite web |url=https://screencrush.com/no-disney-logo-star-wars-the-force-awakens/ |title=There Will Be No Disney Logo Before 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |first=Mike |last=Sampson |work=[[ScreenCrush]] |date=October 15, 2015 |access-date=January 2, 2016 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220070848/http://screencrush.com/no-disney-logo-star-wars-the-force-awakens/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

A poster from [[mainland China]] was criticized for being racist due to shrinking the size of the [[Black people|Black]] character Finn compared to non-Chinese posters.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-12-07 |title=Chinese poster for Star Wars: The Force Awakens minimises role of black actor |url=http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/07/fans-cry-racism-as-chinese-star-wars-poster-shrinks-black-actor |access-date=2022-09-13 |website=the Guardian |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Griffiths |first=James |date=2015-12-09 |title=Chinese state media hits back at claims of racist 'Star Wars' poster |url=https://www.cnn.com/2015/12/08/asia/star-wars-china-racist-poster/index.html |access-date=2022-09-13 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=September 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220913154007/https://www.cnn.com/2015/12/08/asia/star-wars-china-racist-poster/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Khatchatourian |first=Maane |date=2015-12-04 |title='Star Wars' China Poster Sparks Controversy After Shrinking John Boyega's Character |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-china-poster-controversy-john-boyega-1201653494/ |access-date=2022-09-13 |website=Variety |language=en-US |archive-date=September 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220913154000/https://variety.com/2015/film/news/star-wars-china-poster-controversy-john-boyega-1201653494/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Home media ===
[[Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment]] released ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' through [[Digital distribution|digital download]] and [[Disney Movies Anywhere]] on April 1, 2016, and on [[Blu-ray]] and [[DVD-Video|DVD]] on April 5. Physical copies include behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, interviews,<ref name="HomeMediaRelease1">{{cite magazine |last=Breznican |first=Anthony |author-link=Anthony Breznican |title=''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' Blu-ray release date and bonus features revealed |url=https://ew.com/article/2016/03/03/star-wars-force-awakens-bonus-features |access-date=March 3, 2016 |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=March 3, 2016 |archive-date=March 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306155552/http://www.ew.com/article/2016/03/03/star-wars-force-awakens-bonus-features |url-status=live}}</ref> and additional footage with eight bonus features.<ref name="HomeMediaRelease2">{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/article/2016/01/09/force-awakens-dvd |title=''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' DVD will have deleted scenes, but no extended cut |last=Hibberd |first=James |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=January 9, 2016 |access-date=January 9, 2016 |archive-date=January 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112003123/http://www.ew.com/article/2016/01/09/force-awakens-dvd |url-status=live}}</ref> In its first week, ''The Force Awakens'' sold 669,318 DVDs and 3.4{{nbsp}}million Blu-rays as the most sold film on both formats in the United States.<ref name="TheNumbers" /> That same week, ''The Force Awakens'' topped the [[Nielsen VideoScan]] First Alert chart, which tracks overall disc sales, as well as the dedicated Blu-ray sales chart with 83% of unit sales coming from Blu-ray.<ref name="NielsenVideoScan">{{Cite web |url=https://variety.com/2016/digital/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-home-video-blu-ray-1201753139/ |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Dominates All Three Disc Charts |date=April 13, 2016 |first=Thomas K. |last=Arnold |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=May 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519105046/https://variety.com/2016/digital/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-home-video-blu-ray-1201753139/ |archive-date=May 19, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> Overall, ''The Force Awakens'' sold 2.1{{nbsp}}million DVDs and 5.9{{nbsp}}million Blu-rays, adding them up to get a total of 8{{nbsp}}million copies, and made $191{{nbsp}}million through home media releases.<ref name="TheNumbers" />

A Blu-ray 3D "collector's edition" of the film was released on November 15, including all the features of the original home releases, as well as several new bonus features, including new deleted scenes and audio commentary by director [[J. J. Abrams]].<ref name="3DBluRayCollectorsEdition" /> The package includes a Blu-ray 3D, regular Blu-ray, DVD, and [[digital copy]] of the film, as well as an additional Blu-ray disc for the bonus features.<ref name="3DBluRayCollectorsEdition">{{cite news |url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/8/10/12431304/star-wars-the-force-awakens-3d-blu-ray-collectors-edition |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens coming to 3D Blu-ray — with exclusive bonus features |work=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |date=August 10, 2016 |access-date=August 12, 2016 |author=Sarkar, Samit |archive-date=August 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811141543/http://www.polygon.com/2016/8/10/12431304/star-wars-the-force-awakens-3d-blu-ray-collectors-edition |url-status=live}}</ref>

The movie was rereleased on DVD in 2019 as part of the 9-disc "Skywalker Saga" boxed set. It received a [[4K Ultra HD Blu-ray]] release on March 31, 2020. This 4K release was then included in the 27-disc Skywalker Saga box set on April 20, 2020.<ref name="SkywalkerSagaBoxSet">{{Cite web |last=Lussier |first=Germain |url=https://io9.gizmodo.com/lets-dive-into-star-wars-the-skywalker-sagas-27-disc-b-1842496774 |date=March 27, 2020 |title=Let's Dive Into Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga's 27-Disc Box Set |website=[[io9]] |access-date=March 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210313074612/https://io9.gizmodo.com/lets-dive-into-star-wars-the-skywalker-sagas-27-disc-b-1842496774 |archive-date=March 13, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Broadcast syndication ===
The premium cable network [[Starz]] had U.S. [[broadcast syndication]] rights for ''The Force Awakens'' in January 2016,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-starz-rights-1201672965/ |title=Starz Nabs Rights to 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |last=Stedman |first=Alex |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=January 6, 2016 |access-date=November 18, 2021 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211118023620/https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/star-wars-the-force-awakens-starz-rights-1201672965/ |archive-date=November 18, 2021}}</ref> just before the end of Starz's output deal covering most Disney films through 2015.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thewrap.com/disney-inks-output-deals-showtime-starz-updated-15162/ |title=Disney Inks Output Deals with Showtime, Starz (updated) |last=Adalian |first=Josef |work=[[TheWrap]] |date=March 11, 2010 |access-date=November 18, 2021 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211118023627/https://www.thewrap.com/disney-inks-output-deals-showtime-starz-updated-15162/ |archive-date=November 18, 2021}}</ref> That September, ''The Force Awakens'' began broadcasting on all Starz networks.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/07/star-wars-force-awakens-run-starz-beginning-september-10-1201787183/ |title='Star Wars' To Run on Starz Channels Beginning September 10 |last=Lieberman |first=David |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=July 15, 2016 |access-date=November 18, 2021 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211118023652/https://deadline.com/2016/07/star-wars-force-awakens-run-starz-beginning-september-10-1201787183/ |archive-date=November 18, 2021}}</ref>

== Reception ==
=== Box office ===
{{Main|List of box office records set by Star Wars: The Force Awakens{{!}}List of box office records set by ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''}}
''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' grossed $936.7{{nbsp}}million in the United States and Canada and $1.132{{nbsp}}billion in other countries for a worldwide total of $2.068{{nbsp}}billion,<ref name="BOM">{{cite Box Office Mojo |id=2488496 |title=Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens |access-date=January 27, 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref> making it the [[2015 in film#Highest-grossing films|highest-grossing film of 2015]]<ref name="Top2015Films">{{Cite web |title=2015 Worldwide Box Office |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/world/2015/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818152249/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/world/2015/ |archive-date=August 18, 2020 |access-date=April 21, 2023 |website=[[Box Office Mojo]]}}</ref> and the [[List of highest-grossing films|<!--This is the peak position the film attained, not the current, don't adjust!-->third<!--This is the peak position the film attained, not the current, don't adjust!--> highest-grossing film of all time]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Worldwide Grosses |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/alltime/world/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106064718/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/alltime/world/ |archive-date=January 6, 2017 |access-date=October 21, 2021 |website=[[Box Office Mojo]]}}</ref> [[Box Office Mojo]] estimates that the film sold close to 110{{nbsp}}million tickets in the United States and Canada.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220145224/https://boxofficemojo.com/alltime/adjusted.htm?adjust_yr=1&p=.htm |archive-date=December 20, 2016 |access-date=July 12, 2016 |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/alltime/adjusted.htm?adjust_yr=1&p=.htm |title=Domestic Grosses Adjusted for Ticket Price Inflation |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |url-status=dead}}</ref> ''The Force Awakens'' earned 8.6% of the total 2015 releases in the United States and Canada, second only to the 8.8% of the box office earned by ''[[Titanic (1997 film)|Titanic]]'' in 1997.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/03/11/hollywood-is-doomed-because-star-wars-made-too-much-money/#2f75a51851e1 |title=Hollywood Is Doomed Because 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Made Too Much Money? |last=Mendelson |first=Scott |work=[[Forbes]] |date=March 11, 2016 |access-date=March 11, 2016 |archive-date=March 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314112447/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/03/11/hollywood-is-doomed-because-star-wars-made-too-much-money/#2f75a51851e1 |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> It was the 24th film in cinematic history to gross $1&nbsp;billion worldwide, standing as the [[List of fastest-grossing films|fastest film]] to surpass the mark at the time, doing so in 12 days.<ref name=fastest-to-1b>{{cite news |last=Lang |first=Brent |title=Box Office: 'Star Wars' Crosses $1 Billion Globally at Record Pace |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/box-office/star-wars-box-office-christmas-daddys-home-point-break-1201668001/ |access-date=December 27, 2015 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=December 27, 2015 |archive-date=December 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227201600/http://variety.com/2015/film/box-office/star-wars-box-office-christmas-daddys-home-point-break-1201668001/ |url-status=live}}</ref> It was also the third film in history to surpass $2&nbsp;billion worldwide, doing so on its 53rd day of release.<ref>{{cite news |last=D'Alessandro |first=Anthony |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Reaches Unprecedented Height At Domestic B.O. With $900M, $2B Worldwide |url=https://deadline.com/2016/02/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-900m-1201696190/ |access-date=February 7, 2016 |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=February 5, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206094843/https://deadline.com/2016/02/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-900m-1201696190/ |url-status=live}}</ref> ''Deadline Hollywood'' calculated the film's net profit as $780.1&nbsp;million, accounting for production budgets, marketing, talent participations, and other costs; box office grosses and home media revenues placed it first on their list of 2015's "Most Valuable Blockbusters".<ref name="DeadlineProfitAnalysisFinal" />

==== Commercial analysis ====
Analysts said that the box office receipts of the film, when compared to predecessors, must be adjusted for inflation, and that the first ''Star Wars'' film made more when this adjustment is made.<ref name="Stock">{{cite web |first=Kyle |last=Stock |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-12-16/force-awakens-can-t-hope-to-match-box-office-of-original-star-wars |title=Why Force Awakens Can't Hope to Match the Box-Office Power of the Original |work=[[Bloomberg Businessweek]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-date=January 21, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121123855/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-12-16/force-awakens-can-t-hope-to-match-box-office-of-original-star-wars |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}</ref> It has further been observed that each of the first three films in the series was more profitable in calculating revenue against production costs.<ref name="Stock" />

While ''The Force Awakens'' was very successful in the United States and Canada, the same success was not witnessed in many overseas individual markets such as India, other certain parts of Asia and Latin America. This was attributed to it being "a retro film" and how overseas audiences do not have the same nostalgia or affinity for the film as those in North America.<ref name="McClintock">{{cite news |last=McClintock |first=Pamela |title=Box Office: 'Star Wars' Now Unlikely to Beat 'Avatar' Global Record |date=January 13, 2016 |access-date=January 20, 2016 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/force-awakens-avatar-new-star-855065 |archive-date=January 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160116111332/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/force-awakens-avatar-new-star-855065 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Eggertse">{{cite news |last=Eggertse |first=Chris |title=Can 'The Force Awakens' beat 'Avatar's' global box office record? Not a chance, experts say |date=January 14, 2016 |access-date=January 20, 2016 |publisher=[[HitFix]] |url=http://www.hitfix.com/news/can-the-force-awakens-beat-avatars-global-box-office-record-the-experts-weigh-in |archive-date=January 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160118220735/http://www.hitfix.com/news/can-the-force-awakens-beat-avatars-global-box-office-record-the-experts-weigh-in |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Tartaglione">{{cite web |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Vs 'Avatar': It's A Different Picture Overseas |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 5, 2016 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |last=Tartaglione |first=Nancy |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-international-box-office-record-avatar-1201676082 |archive-date=February 2, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160202144244/http://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-international-box-office-record-avatar-1201676082/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> The ''Star Wars'' franchise has traditionally lacked resonance with filmgoers in China, and marketing for ''The Force Awakens'' heavily focused on appealing to that market.<ref name="Eggertse" /><ref name="Tartaglione2">{{cite web |last=Tartaglione |first=Nancy |title='The Force Awakens' In China With $33M; Market's Best Saturday Bow Ever; Top All-Time For Disney |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 9, 2016 |access-date=January 20, 2016 |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-china-opening-day-box-office-results-1201679051/ |archive-date=January 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160116161623/http://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-china-opening-day-box-office-results-1201679051/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

Nancy Tartaglione of ''Deadline Hollywood'' argued that, if accounting for its 40/60 domestic to international split, ''The Force Awakens'' did well overseas.<ref name="Tartaglione" /> While the film had special effects, analysts felt that it lacked the novelty factor; they also stated that its gross was stilted due to markets making way for new films sooner than was previously done.<ref name="Eggertse" /> Dergarabedian stated, "No matter what, [''The Force Awakens''] is an absolute, all-out blockbuster without peer in terms of the sheer speed at which it has crossed all of these major box-office milestones."<ref name="McClintock" /> Moreover, Mike Fleming Jr. of ''Deadline Hollywood'' argued that the movie was the "most valuable movie" of the year, with "the net profit to Disney was an astounding $780.11M, and the Cash on Cash Return was twice that of any other film [released in 2016], at 2.00".<ref name="Deadline profit">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/03/star-wars-the-force-awakens-movie-profit-2015-lucasfilm-disney-1201726142/ |title=No. 1 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' – 2015 Most Valuable Movie Blockbuster Tournament |first=Mike Jr. |last=Fleming |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=March 29, 2016 |access-date=March 29, 2016 |archive-date=March 30, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160330054522/http://deadline.com/2016/03/star-wars-the-force-awakens-movie-profit-2015-lucasfilm-disney-1201726142/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

==== United States and Canada ====
In the United States and Canada, ''The Force Awakens'' was released on December 18, 2015. It made a record-breaking $57&nbsp;million from Thursday night previews,{{efn|The $57 million figure incorporates revenues generated from the "''Star Wars'' Marathon Event" from 135 theaters in which all previous six ''Star Wars'' films were shown along with ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''. Ticket prices cost $59.99 for all the films (including ''The Force Awakens'') at an average of $8.57 per movie.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4132 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Targets Record Breaking $100M+ Opening Day |first=Brad |last=Brevet |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220224745/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4132 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2015/10/star-wars-marathon-tickets-are-crazy |title=This is why you shouldn't buy a Star Wars marathon ticket |first=Nick |last=Schwartz |work=[[USA Today]] |date=October 20, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151115054918/http://ftw.usatoday.com/2015/10/star-wars-marathon-tickets-are-crazy |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IWMovieMarathon">{{Cite web |last=Jagernauth |first=Kevin |date=October 19, 2015 |title='Star Wars' Movie Marathon Event To Lead Into Opening Day Screening Of 'The Force Awakens' |url=https://www.indiewire.com/2015/10/star-wars-movie-marathon-event-to-lead-into-opening-day-screening-of-the-force-awakens-111156/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211118132602/https://www.indiewire.com/2015/10/star-wars-movie-marathon-event-to-lead-into-opening-day-screening-of-the-force-awakens-111156/ |archive-date=November 18, 2021 |access-date=November 18, 2021 |website=[[IndieWire]]}}</ref>}} of which IMAX screenings generated a record-breaking $5.7&nbsp;million from 391 screens.<ref name="force3">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-star-wars-force-849854 |title=Box Office: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Hits Record $57 Million Thursday Night |first1=Pamela |last1=McClintock |first2=Rebecca |last2=Ford |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219064334/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-star-wars-force-849854 |url-status=live}}</ref> On its opening day, the film grossed $119.1&nbsp;million, marking the [[List of highest-grossing openings for films#Biggest opening day in U.S. and Canada|biggest single- and opening-day]] record<ref name="Records">{{Cite web |last=Lowe |first=Kinsey |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-force-awakens-box-office-records-list-1201676689/ |title=Box Office Records Broken By 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' – The List |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 6, 2016 |access-date=February 4, 2021 |archive-date=February 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204202307/https://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-force-awakens-box-office-records-list-1201676689/ |url-status=live}}</ref> and the first time a film has earned more than $100&nbsp;million in a single day.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4133 |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Shatters Opening Day Record |first=Brad |last=Brevet |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |date=December 19, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219224617/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4133 |url-status=live}}</ref> Without Thursday-night grosses, the film earned the second-largest opening-day gross<ref name="SM">{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/12/19/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-120-5m-friday-250m-worldwide-thus-far/ |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Box Office: $248M Opening Weekend, $529M Worldwide |work=[[Forbes]] |first=Scott |last=Mendelson |date=December 19, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220213650/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/12/19/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-120-5m-friday-250m-worldwide-thus-far/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> and a record of $247.9&nbsp;million for its opening weekend.<ref name="TheNumbers">{{cite the numbers |id=Star-Wars-Ep-VII-The-Force-Awakens |title=Star Wars Ep. VII: The Force Awakens |access-date=January 27, 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The debut was 19% bigger than the previous record holders ''[[The Avengers (2012 film)|The Avengers]]'' (2012) ($207&nbsp;million) and ''[[Jurassic World]]'' (2015) ($208&nbsp;million).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/11/22/rogue-one-box-office-first-star-wars-story-may-score-boffo-130m-debut/#7c6e9d11513c |title='Rogue One' Box Office: First 'Star Wars Story' May Score Boffo $130M+ Debut |first=Scott |last=Mendelson |work=[[Forbes]] |date=November 22, 2016 |access-date=November 23, 2016 |archive-date=November 23, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161123165814/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/11/22/rogue-one-box-office-first-star-wars-story-may-score-boffo-130m-debut/#7c6e9d11513c |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> The opening weekend figure included an IMAX opening-weekend record of $30.1&nbsp;million (12.65%) from 391 IMAX theaters,<ref name="USopen">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-force-awakens-box-office-thursday-night-previews-1201669166/ |title='Force Awakens' Rises on Saturday Night; Opening Weekend Record Now At $241M-$246M – Sunday AM Update |last1=D'Alessando |first1=Anthony |last2=Busch |first2=Anita |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=November 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191122055406/https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-force-awakens-box-office-thursday-night-previews-1201669166/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IMAXdead" /> which nearly amounts to the $252.5&nbsp;million total earned by ''[[Return of the Jedi]]''—the second-lowest-grossing film in the series—in its original run.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/franchises/chart/?id=starwars.htm |title=Series: Star Wars |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |access-date=December 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 8, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308032340/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/franchises/chart/?id=starwars.htm |url-status=dead}}</ref> 2D screenings accounted for 53% of the total opening gross while 3D accounted for 47%. [[RealD 3D]] comprised $78&nbsp;million of the opening gross, setting a new record.<ref name="USopen" /> At that time, the film had the biggest December opening weekend, breaking the previous record held by ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'' (2012).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/12/21/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-247m-opening-weekend-528m-worldwide/?sh=6d0f27c11e7d |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Box Office: $248M Opening Weekend, $529M Worldwide |website=[[Forbes]] |access-date=April 28, 2022 |archive-date=April 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428212105/https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/12/21/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-247m-opening-weekend-528m-worldwide/?sh=6d0f27c11e7d |url-status=live }}</ref> It would hold this record until it was surpassed by ''[[Spider-Man: No Way Home]]'' (2021) six years later.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://bleedingcool.com/movies/spider-man-no-way-home-second-highest-opening-ever-box-office/ |title=Spider-Man: No Way Home Actually Scores Second Biggest Opening Ever |date=December 20, 2021 |access-date=April 28, 2022 |archive-date=April 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428212105/https://bleedingcool.com/movies/spider-man-no-way-home-second-highest-opening-ever-box-office/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Revenues in the film's second weekend decreased by only 39.8% in the United States and Canada, earning $149.2&nbsp;million, to remain in first place at the box office<ref name="BOM2">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4137&p=.htm |title='Star Wars: Force Awakens' Crosses $1 Billion Worldwide, Topping Christmas Weekend |first=Brad |last=Brevet |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |date=December 27, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151228050533/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4137&p=.htm |url-status=live}}</ref> and recording the biggest second weekend of all time.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/alltime/weekends/moreweekends.htm?page=2&p=.htm |title=Top Second Weekends |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |access-date=January 4, 2016 |archive-date=December 17, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081217053512/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/alltime/weekends/moreweekends.htm?page=2&p=.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>

On January 2, after just 16 days of release, it became the second film (following ''Avatar'') to gross over $700&nbsp;million in the United States and Canada,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4140 |title='Star Wars' Crosses $700 Million Domestically as 2016 is Off to a Strong Start |first=Brad |last=Brevet |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |date=January 3, 2016 |access-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-date=February 13, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160213130310/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4140 |url-status=live}}</ref> and on January 6 became the [[List of highest-grossing films in the United States and Canada|highest-grossing film of all time domestically]], doing so in 20 days.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-highest-grossing-film-domestic-box-office-record-beats-avatar-1201676602/ |title='Force Awakens' Beats 'Avatar' As Highest-Grossing Film of All-Time at Domestic B.O. In Jaw-Dropping 20 Days |first=Anthony |last=D'Alessandro |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 6, 2016 |access-date=January 7, 2016 |archive-date=January 7, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107013437/http://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-highest-grossing-film-domestic-box-office-record-beats-avatar-1201676602/ |url-status=live}}</ref> On January 9, it became the first film in cinematic history to cross $800&nbsp;million domestically unadjusted for inflation.<ref name="IMAXfast">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/the-revenant-star-wars-the-force-awakens-weekend-box-office-1201678383/ |title='Force Awakens' Crosses $800M on Saturday & Holds No. 1, 'Revenant' Taking No. 2 With $38M – Early AM B.O. |first=Anthony |last=D'Alessandro |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 10, 2016 |access-date=January 10, 2016 |archive-date=January 8, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108223850/http://deadline.com/2016/01/the-revenant-star-wars-the-force-awakens-weekend-box-office-1201678383/ |url-status=live}}</ref> On February 5, ''The Force Awakens'' became the first film to earn over $900&nbsp;million, unadjusted for inflation, in the United States and Canada.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/02/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-900m-1201696190/ |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Reaches Unprecedented Height At Domestic B.O. With $900M, $2B Worldwide |first=Anthony |last=D'Alessandro |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=February 5, 2016 |access-date=February 5, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206083209/http://deadline.com/2016/02/star-wars-the-force-awakens-box-office-900m-1201696190/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-milestone-star-wars-862413 |title=Box-Office Milestone: 'Star Wars: Force Awakens' Crossing $2B Globally |first=Pamela |last=McClintock |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=February 5, 2016 |access-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206082833/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-milestone-star-wars-862413 |url-status=live}}</ref> The film fell outside of the top ten for the first time in its eleventh weekend during the weekend February 26–28, 2016,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/02/28/box-office-deadpool-tops-matrix-reloaded-as-leonardo-dicaprios-the-revenant-crosses-170m/#5602348b2b70 |title=Box Office: 'Deadpool' Tops 'Matrix Reloaded' As Leonardo DiCaprio's 'The Revenant' Crosses $170M |first=Scott |last=Mendelson |work=[[Forbes]] |date=February 28, 2016 |access-date=February 28, 2016 |archive-date=February 28, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160228220140/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/02/28/box-office-deadpool-tops-matrix-reloaded-as-leonardo-dicaprios-the-revenant-crosses-170m/#5602348b2b70 |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2016/mar/01/grimsby-sacha-baron-cohen-deadpool-rams-star-wars-uk-box-office |title=Grimsby sickens but fails to gross as Deadpool continues heroics at the UK box office |first=Charles |last=Gant |work=[[The Guardian]] |date=March 1, 2016 |access-date=March 2, 2016 |archive-date=March 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160301185954/http://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2016/mar/01/grimsby-sacha-baron-cohen-deadpool-rams-star-wars-uk-box-office |url-status=live}}</ref> and did not achieve $1&nbsp;million in ticket sales for the first time in its fourteenth weekend.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/03/20/weekend-box-office-star-wars-dips-under-1m-deadpool-tops-spider-man-3-zootopia-near-600m/#1e3097ea5a41 |title=Weekend Box Office: 'Star Wars' Dips Under $1M, 'Deadpool' Tops 'Spider-Man 3, 'Zootopia' Near $600M |first=Scott |last=Mendelson |work=[[Forbes]] |date=March 20, 2016 |access-date=March 20, 2016 |archive-date=March 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320225531/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2016/03/20/weekend-box-office-star-wars-dips-under-1m-deadpool-tops-spider-man-3-zootopia-near-600m/#1e3097ea5a41 |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref>

==== Other territories ====
Internationally, the film was released in over 30,000 screens.<ref name="Intldead">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-overseas-box-office-1201668699/ |title='The Force Awakens' With $517M Worldwide Weekend; No. 2 All-Time Global Bow – Update |first1=Nancy |last1=Tartaglione |first2=Anthony |last2=D'Alessandro |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219155759/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-overseas-box-office-1201668699/ |url-status=live}}</ref> It opened on December 16, 2015, in 12 international markets and earned $14.1&nbsp;million on its opening day, debuting at first place in all of them.<ref name="force">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-star-wars-force-849779 |title=Box Office: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Blasts Off Overseas With $14.1M Wednesday |first=Pamela |last=McClintock |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 17, 2015 |access-date=December 17, 2015 |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218040536/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-star-wars-force-849779 |url-status=live}}</ref> It expanded in an additional 42 countries on December 17, generating $58.6&nbsp;million for a two-day international total of $72.7&nbsp;million, reaching first place in all 44 markets.<ref name="deadline">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-overseas-box-office-1201668699/ |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Hits $250M Worldwide Box Office In 3 Days |first1=Anthony |last1=D'Alessandro |first2=Nancy |last2=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218214020/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-overseas-box-office-1201668699/ |url-status=live}}</ref> It grossed a total of $129.5&nbsp;million in three days after adding $56.8&nbsp;million on its third day,<ref name="deadline" /> and set a new midnight record in the United Kingdom with $3.6&nbsp;million.<ref name="force2" /> It broke opening-day records in the United Kingdom ($14.4&nbsp;million), Germany ($7.1&nbsp;million), Australia ($6.8&nbsp;million),<ref name="force3" /> Sweden ($1.7&nbsp;million), Norway ($1.1&nbsp;million),<ref name="force" /> and in 12 other countries.<ref name="force2">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/news/uk-box-office-star-wars-850114 |title=U.K. Box Office: 'Star Wars' Opens With Highest Single-Day Gross |first=Georg |last=Szalai |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 18, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219072944/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/uk-box-office-star-wars-850114 |url-status=live}}</ref> Other markets which generated large opening days were Spain ($3.5&nbsp;million) and Japan ($3&nbsp;million).<ref name="deadline" /> After the five days, ''The Force Awakens'' had a total international opening gross of $281&nbsp;million from 30,000 screens, a new record for December opening<ref name="Intldead" /><ref name="TGIF" /> and the third-biggest international opening of all time.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/intl/weekend/opening/ |title=Overseas Total All Time Openings |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |access-date=January 4, 2016 |archive-date=June 23, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110623165415/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/intl/weekend/opening/ |url-status=live}}</ref> International markets generating opening-weekend tallies of at least $10&nbsp;million were the United Kingdom ($50.6&nbsp;million), Germany ($27.5&nbsp;million), France ($22.5&nbsp;million), Australia ($19.6&nbsp;million), Japan ($13.4&nbsp;million), and Russia ($12.3&nbsp;million). The film had the biggest opening of all time in 18 countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Russia, and Sweden.<ref name="Intldead" /><ref name="Overseas21stOpening">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-mojin-dilwale-good-dinosaur-spectre-international-box-office-results-1201670198/ |title='Star Wars' Rules Galaxy; What Else Is Up at the International Box Office |first=Nancy |last=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221084630/https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-mojin-dilwale-good-dinosaur-spectre-international-box-office-results-1201670198/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

After five days, the film had a total worldwide opening record of $529&nbsp;million from 74 territories, which was the [[List of highest-grossing openings for films#Biggest worldwide openings on record|biggest worldwide opening]] at that time, making it only the second time in cinematic history—after ''Jurassic World''—that a film had opened to more than $500&nbsp;million globally.<ref name="TGIF">{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/22/star-wars-the-force-awakens-avatar-mojin-global-box-office |title=What Star Wars: The Force Awakens has to do to beat Avatar |first=Phil |last=Hoad |work=[[The Guardian]] |date=December 21, 2015 |access-date=December 25, 2015 |archive-date=December 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225030328/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/22/star-wars-the-force-awakens-avatar-mojin-global-box-office |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Ttt">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4134&p=.htm |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Crushes Records, Topping Largest Box Office Weekend of All Time |first=Brad |last=Brevet |publisher=[[Box Office Mojo]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=December 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220224859/http://www.boxofficemojo.com/news/?id=4134&p=.htm |url-status=live}}</ref> This included an IMAX opening record of $48&nbsp;million.<ref name="Ttt" /> Revenues from IMAX dipped slightly, generating $19&nbsp;million in its second weekend, for a record total of over $70&nbsp;million in 11 days.<ref name="Deadline2">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-force-awakens-christmas-weekend-box-office-record-joy-daddys-home-concussion-point-break-1201672899 |title='Daddy', 'Joy' & 'Hateful Eight' Reap Fortune As 'Star Wars' Hits $540M+ … Can 'Force Awakens' Hit $1 Billion in U.S.? |first1=Anthony |last1=D'Alessandro |first2=Anita |last2=Busch |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 27, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227183457/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-force-awakens-christmas-weekend-box-office-record-joy-daddys-home-concussion-point-break-1201672899/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> IMAX generated $17.9&nbsp;million from 276 IMAX theaters.<ref name="IMAXdead">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-imax-record-box-office-1201670114/ |title='Star Wars' Smashes IMAX Records With $48M Galactic Launch |first=Nancy |last=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 20, 2015 |access-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221084624/https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-the-force-awakens-imax-record-box-office-1201670114/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The film had a steeper decline in its second weekend, falling 51% to $136.9&nbsp;million.<ref name="SW2">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-one-billion-dollars-global-box-office-record-second-weekend-overseas-results-1201673404 |title='Star Wars' Crosses $1B Global Box Office To Break 'World' Record; Offshore Cume Rises To $550.3M – Monday Update |first=Nancy |last=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 27, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227203022/http://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-one-billion-dollars-global-box-office-record-second-weekend-overseas-results-1201673404/ |url-status=dead}}</ref> The film had an unsuccessful opening in India where it opened third against two local blockbusters with a mere $1.51&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/asia/india-box-office-star-wars-opens-in-third-place-1201669493 |title=India Box Office: 'Star Wars' Opens in Third Place |first=Naman |last=Ramachandran |author-link=Naman Ramachandran |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=December 30, 2015 |access-date=December 31, 2015 |archive-date=December 30, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151230170314/http://variety.com/2015/film/asia/india-box-office-star-wars-opens-in-third-place-1201669493/ |url-status=live}}</ref> As of February 2016, the highest-grossing markets outside of the United States and Canada were the United Kingdom ($180.7&nbsp;million), China ($124.5&nbsp;million), Germany ($109.7&nbsp;million), Japan ($92.6&nbsp;million), and France ($88.2&nbsp;million).<ref name="Overseas8thOpening">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/02/deadpool-zootopia-mermaid-hail-caesar-international-box-office-overseas-weekend-results-1201706617/ |title='Deadpool' Scores $85.3M in 2nd Offshore Frame; Nears $500M Global – Intl Box Office |first=Nancy |last=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=February 21, 2016 |access-date=February 22, 2016 |archive-date=June 20, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170620143746/http://deadline.com/2016/02/deadpool-zootopia-mermaid-hail-caesar-international-box-office-overseas-weekend-results-1201706617/ |url-status=live}}</ref> On January 17, 2016, it passed the $1&nbsp;billion mark overseas becoming the first film of Disney, the third film of 2015 and the fifth film overall to achieve this feat.<ref name="Overseas3rdOpening">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/revenant-5th-wave-hateful-8-ride-along-2-star-wars-international-box-office-weekend-results-1201684764/ |title='Force Awakens' $100M in China; Oscar Fave 'The Revenant' Opens Big in UK, Korea – Intl B.O. Update |first1=Nancy |last1=Tartaglione |first2=Anita |last2=Busch |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 19, 2016 |access-date=January 21, 2015 |archive-date=January 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160118153712/http://deadline.com/2016/01/revenant-5th-wave-hateful-8-ride-along-2-star-wars-international-box-office-weekend-results-1201684764/ |url-status=live}}</ref> It topped the international box office chart for five consecutive weekends, becoming the first film since ''[[Avengers: Age of Ultron]]'' (2015) to have five straight wins, before being dethroned by ''[[The Revenant (2015 film)|The Revenant]]'' in its sixth weekend.<ref name="Overseas4thOpening">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-kung-fu-panda-3-revenant-5th-wave-dirty-grandpa-big-short-overseas-box-office-weekend-1201689456/ |title='The Revenant' Tops Offshore Weekend With $33.8M And Over $223M Global; 'The Force Awakens' At No. 2 – Intl Box Office Final |first=Nancy |last=Tartaglione |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=January 25, 2016 |access-date=January 26, 2016 |archive-date=January 25, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160125160310/http://deadline.com/2016/01/star-wars-the-force-awakens-kung-fu-panda-3-revenant-5th-wave-dirty-grandpa-big-short-overseas-box-office-weekend-1201689456/ |url-status=live}}</ref> In Japan, it topped the box office for six straight weekends.<ref name="Overseas4thOpening" />

=== Critical response ===
''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' received<!--NOTE: Adding "critically acclaimed" is disputed at this article. The sources do, however, state "overwhelmingly positive". See past talk page discussions about this. Consider discussing "critically acclaimed" on the talk page if you want it added. It should not be added without a WP:Reliable source supporting it.--> overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics.<ref name="ReceptionBundle">Multiple sources:
* {{cite news |url=http://www.mysanantonio.com/entertainment/movies-tv/article/Here-s-what-reviewers-are-saying-about-Star-6702382.php |title=Critics' reviews of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' overwhelmingly positive |last=Fechter |first=Joshua |work=[[San Antonio Express-News]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221043039/http://www.mysanantonio.com/entertainment/movies-tv/article/Here-s-what-reviewers-are-saying-about-Star-6702382.php |url-status=live}}
* {{cite web |url=http://qz.com/575399/star-wars-the-force-awakens-reviews-are-in-and-theyre-overwhelmingly-positive/ |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' reviews are in, and they're overwhelmingly positive |last=Epstein |first=Adam |work=[[Quartz (publication)|Quartz]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151226172951/http://qz.com/575399/star-wars-the-force-awakens-reviews-are-in-and-theyre-overwhelmingly-positive/ |url-status=live}}
* {{cite news |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/star-wars-premiere-reviews-fans-1.3365723 |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens earns positive early reviews |last=Wong |first=Jessica |publisher=[[CBC News]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |archive-date=February 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160212201355/http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/star-wars-premiere-reviews-fans-1.3365723 |url-status=live}}
* {{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35109900 |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens gets rave reviews |publisher=[[BBC News]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=December 28, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219015037/http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35109900 |url-status=live}}</ref> On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, {{RT data|score}} of {{RT data|count}} critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of {{RT data|average}}. The website's consensus reads, "Packed with action and populated by both familiar faces and fresh blood, ''The Force Awakens'' successfully recalls the series' former glory while injecting it with renewed energy".<ref name="rt">{{cite web |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/star_wars_episode_vii_the_force_awakens |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens |work=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date={{RT data|access date}}}}{{RT data|edit}}</ref> {{Metacritic film prose|score=80|count=55|ref=yes|access-date=May 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219024710/https://metacritic.com/movie/star-wars-episode-vii---the-force-awakens|archive-date=December 19, 2015|url-status=live}} Audiences polled by [[CinemaScore]] gave the film an average grade of "A" on an A+ to F scale; women, and people under the ages of 25 and 18 gave it an "A+", while 98% of audiences gave it either an "A" or a "B". Audiences polled by [[PostTrak]] gave the film an 88% "definite recommend" while 96% said it met or exceeded their expectations.<ref name="CinemaScore">{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-force-awakens-box-office-thursday-night-previews-1201669166/ |title='Star Wars' Stomps on Dinos & Witch-Slaps 'Potter' As 'Force Awakens' Flies Toward $251M-$255M Opening Record – Late Night Update |first1=Anthony |last1=D'Alessandro |first2=Anita |last2=Busch |website=[[Deadline Hollywood]] |date=December 18, 2015 |access-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-date=November 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191122055406/https://deadline.com/2015/12/star-wars-force-awakens-box-office-thursday-night-previews-1201669166/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Robbie Collin]] of ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'' said the film "sets out to shake ''Star Wars'' from its slumber, and reconnect the series with its much-pined-for past", and "it achieves this both immediately and joyously is perhaps the single greatest relief of the movie-going year."<ref>{{cite web |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens review: 'the magic is back' |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/star-wars-the-force-awakens/episode-7-review |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |location=UK |access-date=December 16, 2015 |date=February 6, 2016 |first=Robbie |last=Collin |archive-date=December 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151216081159/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/star-wars-the-force-awakens/episode-7-review/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> [[Peter Bradshaw]] of ''[[The Guardian]]'' said that it was "both a narrative progression from the earlier three films and a shrewdly affectionate next-gen reboot", and it was "ridiculous and melodramatic and sentimental, but exciting and brimming with energy and its own kind of generosity."<ref>{{cite web |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens review – a spectacular homecoming |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/16/star-wars-the-force-awakens-review-a-spectacular-homecoming |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=UK |access-date=December 16, 2015 |first=Peter |last=Bradshaw |date=December 16, 2015 |archive-date=February 13, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160213025803/http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/16/star-wars-the-force-awakens-review-a-spectacular-homecoming |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Variety (magazine)|''Variety'']]'s Justin Chang wrote that the film has "sufficient style, momentum, love, and care to prove irresistible to any who have ever considered themselves fans."<ref name="Justin Chang">{{cite news |last=Chang |first=Justin |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/reviews/star-wars-review-the-force-awakens-1201661978 |title=Film Review: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206014701/http://variety.com/2015/film/reviews/star-wars-review-the-force-awakens-1201661978/ |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Richard Roeper]] of the ''[[Chicago Sun-Times]]'' described it as "a beautiful, thrilling, joyous, surprising, and heart-thumping adventure".<ref name="Chicago Sun-TimesR">{{cite web |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens: The thrills are strong with this one |url=http://entertainment.suntimes.com/movies/star-wars-force-awakens-review-thrills-strong-one/ |first=Richard |last=Roeper |author-link=Richard Roeper |work=[[Chicago Sun-Times]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |url-status=dead |url-access=limited |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218234650/http://entertainment.suntimes.com/movies/star-wars-force-awakens-review-thrills-strong-one/ |archive-date=December 18, 2015}}</ref> Ann Hornaday, writing for ''[[The Washington Post]]'', thought the film had "enough novelty to create yet another cohort of die-hard fans", and the film struck "all the right chords, emotional, and narrative, to feel both familiar and exhilaratingly new."<ref name="W. Post: Hornaday">{{cite news |last=Hornaday |first=Ann |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' gets the nostalgia-novelty mix just right |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/star-wars-the-force-awakens-gets-the-nostalgia-novelty-mix-just-right/2015/12/15/c2e8a38e-a365-11e5-b53d-972e2751f433_story.html |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |date=December 16, 2015 |page=T29 |access-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-date=January 31, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131223029/https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/star-wars-the-force-awakens-gets-the-nostalgia-novelty-mix-just-right/2015/12/15/c2e8a38e-a365-11e5-b53d-972e2751f433_story.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> ''[[The Charlotte Observer]]''{{'}}s Lawrence Toppman said Abrams had "pulled off a delicate balancing act, paying clever homage to the past."<ref>{{cite news |title=The force is strong with new 'Star Wars' installment, 'The Force Awakens' |url=http://www.charlotteobserver.com/entertainment/ent-columns-blogs/lawrence-toppman/article49909095.html |last=Toppman |first=Lawrence |work=[[The Charlotte Observer]] |date=December 16, 2015 |page=5C |access-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-date=January 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160120205433/http://www.charlotteobserver.com/entertainment/ent-columns-blogs/lawrence-toppman/article49909095.html |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Mick LaSalle]] of the ''[[San Francisco Chronicle]]'' gave the film his highest rating and called it "the best ''Star Wars'' sequel yet and one of the best films of 2015".<ref>{{cite news |last=LaSalle |first=Mick |author-link=Mick LaSalle |url=http://www.sfchronicle.com/movies/article/Star-Wars-The-Force-Awakens-is-the-best-6700735.php |title=''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' is the best sequel yet |work=[[San Francisco Chronicle]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=December 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219005947/http://www.sfchronicle.com/movies/article/Star-Wars-The-Force-Awakens-is-the-best-6700735.php |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> Frank Pallotta, reviewing the film for [[CNN Business]], found it was the best ''Star Wars'' film since the original trilogy and that it "is bound to be a film experience long remembered by fans and non-fans alike".<ref name="CNNreview">{{cite web |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens' is best film since original trilogy |url=https://money.cnn.com/2015/12/16/media/star-wars-the-force-awakens-review/ |first=Frank |last=Pallotta |publisher=[[CNN Business]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 16, 2015 |archive-date=December 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151217034811/http://money.cnn.com/2015/12/16/media/star-wars-the-force-awakens-review |url-status=live}}</ref>

Tom Long of ''[[The Detroit News]]'' wrote that though some may find the film too similar to the original ''Star Wars'', it leaves "the ungainly and unneeded clumsiness of the subsequent prequels far behind", and "the energy, humor, and simplicity of direction [has] been recaptured".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/movies/2015/12/16/tom-long-star-wars-review-force-awakens/77395392 |title=Movie review: The Force is back, baby |work=[[The Detroit News]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |last=Long |first=Tom |archive-date=March 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310072103/http://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/movies/2015/12/16/tom-long-star-wars-review-force-awakens/77395392/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Tribune-Star]] called it "basically the same" as the original film but "isn't that what we all wanted anyway?"<ref>{{cite web |last=Bahr |first=Lindsey |url=http://www.tribstar.com/features/review-star-wars-the-force-awakens-is-fun-fan-service/article_27d46ccd-5474-5718-aa79-77b966cd9387.html |title=Review: ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' Is Fun Fan Service |website=[[Tribune-Star]] |date=December 16, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |archive-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203122405/https://www.tribstar.com/features/review-star-wars-the-force-awakens-is-fun-fan-service/article_27d46ccd-5474-5718-aa79-77b966cd9387.html |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Stephanie Zacharek]] of ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' wrote that Abrams had delivered "everything we expect, as opposed to those nebulous wonders we didn't know we wanted".<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Zacharek |first=Stephanie |author-link=Stephanie Zacharek |url=https://time.com/4150168/review-star-wars-the-force-awakens/ |title=Review: ''The Force Awakens'' Is Everything You Could Hope for in a Star Wars Movie—and Less |magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 16, 2015 |archive-date=February 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160227141119/http://time.com/4150168/review-star-wars-the-force-awakens/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> Reviewing for ''[[Forbes]]'', Scott Mendelson cited the film's "top-tier production values and a strong sense of scale and scope", but felt it was so much "an exercise in fan service [that] it is only due to the charisma and talent of our newbies and J. J. Abrams' undeniable skill as a visual storyteller that the [[Mad Libs]] narrative doesn't outright destroy the picture."<ref>{{cite news |last=Mendelson |first=Scott |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/12/16/star-wars-the-force-awakens-review-the-empire-strikes-out |title=''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' Review: The Empire Strikes Out |work=[[Forbes]] |date=December 15, 2015 |access-date=December 16, 2015 |archive-date=December 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219112102/http://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2015/12/16/star-wars-the-force-awakens-review-the-empire-strikes-out/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref> [[Brian Merchant]] of ''[[Motherboard (website)|Motherboard]]'' said that the film "is supposed to be all about exploring the unexplored, not rehashing the well-trod", and that "one of the most unabashedly creative enterprises of the 20th century has been rendered another largely enjoyable, but mostly forgettable Hollywood reboot."<ref>{{cite web |title='The Force Awakens' Is the Least Interesting Star Wars Yet |url=https://motherboard.vice.com/read/the-force-awakens-is-the-least-interesting-star-wars-yet |website=[[Motherboard (website)|Motherboard]] |first=Brian |last=Merchant |author-link=Brian Merchant |date=December 21, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |archive-date=February 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206184935/http://motherboard.vice.com/read/the-force-awakens-is-the-least-interesting-star-wars-yet |url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[RogerEbert.com]]''{{'}}s Gerardo Valero said the movie "plagiarized" ''A New Hope'' and resorted to nostalgia. He felt that it "didn't [justify] a return to the universe" from not having an original story of its own to tell in the plot, characters, and musical score, negatively comparing it to George Lucas' prequel trilogy, and that some of its climactic moments felt unearned.<ref>{{cite web |last=Valero |first=Gerardo |url=https://www.rogerebert.com/far-flung-correspondents/plagiarizing-star-wars-the-problems-with-the-force-awakens |title=Plagiarizing Star Wars the problems with The Force Awakens |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109023828/https://www.rogerebert.com/far-flung-correspondents/plagiarizing-star-wars-the-problems-with-the-force-awakens |archive-date=November 9, 2020 |website=[[RogerEbert.com]] |date=January 5, 2016 |access-date=January 30, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==== From ''Star Wars'' filmmakers ====

In an interview with journalist [[Charlie Rose]] that aired on December 24, 2015, Lucas likened his decision to sell Lucasfilm to Disney to a "divorce" and outlined the creative differences between him and the producers of ''The Force Awakens''. Lucas described the previous ''Star Wars'' films as his "children" and criticized the "retro feel" of ''The Force Awakens'', saying: "I worked very hard to make [my films] completely different, with different planets, with different spaceships—you know, to make it new." Lucas also likened Disney to "white slavers", which drew some criticism; he subsequently apologized.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Child |first1=Ben |title=Attack of the moans: George Lucas hits out at 'retro' Star Wars: The Force Awakens |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/31/george-lucas-attacks-retro-star-wars-the-force-awakens |access-date=April 18, 2016 |work=[[The Guardian]] |date=December 31, 2015 |archive-date=October 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001032034/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/dec/31/george-lucas-attacks-retro-star-wars-the-force-awakens |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Peterson |first1=Jeff |title=George Lucas elaborates on his reaction to ''The Force Awakens'' |url=http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865645039/George-Lucas-elaborates-on-his-reaction-to-The-Force-Awakens.html?pg=all |access-date=April 18, 2016 |work=[[Deseret News]] |date=January 7, 2016 |archive-date=June 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180615220149/https://www.deseretnews.com/article/865645039/George-Lucas-elaborates-on-his-reaction-to-The-Force-Awakens.html?pg=all |url-status=dead}}</ref> In a 2019 memoir, Disney chairman [[Bob Iger]] said that George Lucas "couldn't even hide his disappointment" towards J. J. Abrams' interpretation. According to Iger, Lucas said, "there's nothing new" after seeing the film, and that "there weren't enough visual or technical leaps forward".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/george-lucas-couldnt-hide-his-disappointment-when-he-was-show-star-wars-the-force-awakens-103743963.html |title=George Lucas 'couldn't hide his disappointment' when he was shown ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' |publisher=[[Yahoo!]] |first=Ben |last=Arnold |date=September 24, 2019 |access-date=September 24, 2019 |archive-date=September 24, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190924172934/https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/george-lucas-couldnt-hide-his-disappointment-when-he-was-show-star-wars-the-force-awakens-103743963.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.inverse.com/article/59505-star-wars-9-sequels-george-lucas |title=Bob Iger reveals the 1 thing George Lucas hates about the ''Star Wars'' sequels |first=Jen |last=Glennon |website=[[Inverse (website)|Inverse]] |date=September 24, 2019 |access-date=September 24, 2019 |archive-date=September 24, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190924172928/https://www.inverse.com/article/59505-star-wars-9-sequels-george-lucas |url-status=live}}</ref> Lucas preferred [[Rian Johnson]]'s sequel ''The Last Jedi'' and the anthology film ''[[Rogue One]]'' (2016).<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/star-wars-8-george-lucas-the-last-jedi-review-a8107156.html |title=George Lucas gives his verdict on ''Star Wars: The Last Jedi'' |date=December 13, 2017 |website=[[The Independent]] |access-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-date=July 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725064753/https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/star-wars-8-george-lucas-the-last-jedi-review-a8107156.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/comic-riffs/wp/2016/12/09/george-lucas-seems-to-like-rogue-one-is-his-relationship-with-star-wars-less-awkward-now/ |title=George Lucas says he loves ''Rogue One''. Is his relationship with Disney's ''Star Wars'' less awkward now? |first=Michael |last=Cavna |date=December 9, 2016 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=September 24, 2019 |archive-date=September 24, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190924172928/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/comic-riffs/wp/2016/12/09/george-lucas-seems-to-like-rogue-one-is-his-relationship-with-star-wars-less-awkward-now/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}}</ref>

=== Accolades ===
{{Main|List of accolades received by Star Wars: The Force Awakens{{!}}List of accolades received by ''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''}}
Several awards held their nominations before the December release of ''The Force Awakens'', making the film ineligible for the [[73rd Golden Globe Awards]] and some other awards ceremonies.<ref name=lateawards>{{cite news |title=Critics' Choice Awards add 'The Force Awakens' as an 11th best picture nominee |url=https://www.usnews.com/news/entertainment/articles/2015-12-22/critics-choice-add-force-awakens-as-best-picture-nominee |archive-url=https://archive.today/20160107031605/http://www.usnews.com/news/entertainment/articles/2015-12-22/critics-choice-add-force-awakens-as-best-picture-nominee |url-status=live |archive-date=January 7, 2016 |access-date=December 25, 2015 |work=[[U.S. News & World Report]] |date=December 22, 2015}}</ref> However, the film was added to the [[21st Critics' Choice Awards]]' slate of best picture nominees after a special vote by the board of directors,<ref name="cca15">{{cite web |url=https://hollywoodreporter.com/race/critics-choice-awards-star-wars-850711 |title=Critics' Choice Awards: 'Star Wars' Added as 11th Best Pic Nominee |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=December 22, 2015 |access-date=February 7, 2016 |last=Feinberg |first=Scott |archive-date=January 21, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121120011/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/race/critics-choice-awards-star-wars-850711 |url-status=live}}</ref> and the announcement of the [[American Film Institute Awards 2015|2015 American Film Institute Awards]] was delayed until after the release of ''The Force Awakens'',<ref name=lateawards /> where it was named one of the top-ten films of 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ford |first=Rebecca |date=December 16, 2015 |title=''Star Wars: The Force Awakens'' Lands on AFI's Top 10 List |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/star-wars-force-awakens-lands-849517/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513195429/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/star-wars-force-awakens-lands-849517/ |archive-date=May 13, 2021 |access-date=March 3, 2023 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref>

At the [[88th Academy Awards]], ''The Force Awakens'' received nominations for [[Academy Award for Best Film Editing|Best Film Editing]], [[Academy Award for Best Original Score|Best Original Score]], [[Academy Award for Best Sound Editing|Best Sound Editing]], [[Academy Award for Best Sound Mixing|Best Sound Mixing]], and [[Academy Award for Best Visual Effects|Best Visual Effects]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 28, 2016 |title=Oscars: The Complete Winners List |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/oscars-winners-list-updated-results-856950/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220509015439/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/oscars-winners-list-updated-results-856950/ |archive-date=May 9, 2022 |access-date=May 9, 2022 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref> The film's other nominations include four [[British Academy Film Awards]] (winning one) and a [[Critics' Choice Movie Award]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ritman |first=Alex |date=February 14, 2016 |title=BAFTA Awards: Complete Winners List |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/2016-bafta-winners-complete-list-856951/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220412232853/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/2016-bafta-winners-complete-list-856951/ |archive-date=April 12, 2022 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=January 17, 2016 |title=Critics' Choice Awards: The Complete Winners List |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/2016-critics-choice-awards-winners-856447 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411071053/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/2016-critics-choice-awards-winners-856447 |archive-date=April 11, 2021 |access-date=April 19, 2022 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref>

=== Fan backlash===
{{Expand section|date=June 2023}}

The release of the first film trailer for ''The Force Awakens'' in 2015 spurred a racial [[Backlash (sociology)|backlash]] against the casting of Boyega, a [[Black British]] actor, in such a prominent role.<ref name="Quiroga p126">{{cite book |last1=Quiroga |first1=Stefan Aguirre |title=White Mythic Space: Racism, the First World War, and 'Battlefield 1' |date=2022 |publisher=Walter de Gruyter |location=Berlin |isbn=978-3-11-072930-6 |page=126}}</ref> Some social media users called for a boycott of the film, which they accused of being "anti-white"<ref name="McMillan 2015">{{Cite web |last=McMillan |first=Graeme |date=October 19, 2015 |title='Boycott "Star Wars VII{{" '}} Movement Launched; Movie Called 'Anti-White' |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/boycott-star-wars-vii-movement-833102/ |access-date=February 19, 2023 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref> and of promoting "[[white genocide]]".<ref name="Kempshall p204">{{cite book |last1=Kempshall |first1=Chris |title=The History and Politics of Star Wars: Death Stars and Democracy |date=2023 |publisher=Taylor & Francis |location=London |isbn=978-1-351-38270-0 |pages=204–205}}</ref> One such account promoted the [[Cultural Marxism conspiracy theory]].<ref name="Davis 2015">{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Ben |date=October 27, 2015 |title=The Star Wars Boycott, the Frankfurt School, and Cultural Marxism |url=https://news.artnet.com/opinion/cultural-marxism-boycott-star-wars-348914 |access-date=February 19, 2023 |website=Artnet News}}</ref> The character of Rey was also criticized as a too-perfect "[[Mary Sue]]" character by a group of fans who became known as the "Fandom Menace", who focused their ire at Lucasfilm president [[Kathleen Kennedy (producer)|Kathleen Kennedy]], whom they accused of spoiling the film franchise by including "forced diversity" and [[pro-feminist]] politics.{{sfnp|Kempshall|2023|pp=200–202}}


== Sequels ==
== Sequels ==
{{Main|Star Wars: The Last Jedi{{!}}''Star Wars: The Last Jedi''|Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker{{!}}''Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker''}}
On June 20, 2014, director [[Rian Johnson]] was reported to be in talks to write and direct ''Star Wars Episode VIII'' and to write a [[Film treatment|treatment]] for ''Star Wars Episode IX''.<ref>{{cite web|last = Fleming, Jr.|first = Mike|title = 'Star Wars Bombshell! Rian Johnson To Write, Direct Next Two Films|url = http://www.deadline.com/2014/06/star-wars-rian-johnson-director-next-two-movies/|accessdate = June 20, 2014|work = Deadline Hollywood|date = June 20, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1 = Shaw|first1 = Lucas|title = Rian Johnson to Write and Direct ‘Star Wars’ 8 — But Not 9|url = http://www.thewrap.com/rian-johnson-to-write-and-direct-star-wars-8-but-not-9/|accessdate = June 20, 2014|work = The Wrap|publisher = TheWrap.com|date = June 20, 2014}}</ref> Johnson personally confirmed in August 2014 that he would direct ''Episode VIII''.<ref name="THRJohnson" /> Like ''Episode VII'', filming for ''Episode VIII'' will take place in London.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/10/16/ilm-london-launch-updates-on-star-wars-episode-vii-avengers-age-of-ultron|title = ILM London Launch: Updates on Star Wars Episode VII & Avengers: Age of Ultron|last = Ashurst|first = Sam|work = [[IGN]]|date = October 16, 2014|accessdate = October 16, 2014|archiveurl = http://www.webcitation.org/6TNJhbus5|archivedate = October 16, 2014|deadurl = no}}</ref>
''The Force Awakens'' was followed by the sequels ''The Last Jedi'' and ''The Rise of Skywalker'', which conclude the sequel trilogy.<ref name="NYTTROS" /> Both grossed over $1{{nbsp}}billion, ranking among the highest-grossing films of the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2017 Worldwide Box Office |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/world/2017/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210211165008/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/world/2017/ |archive-date=February 11, 2021 |access-date=August 19, 2023 |website=[[Box Office Mojo]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 Worldwide Box Office |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/world/2019/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425204010/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/year/world/2019/ |archive-date=April 25, 2020 |access-date=August 19, 2023 |website=[[Box Office Mojo]]}}</ref> ''The Last Jedi'' garnered positive reviews from critics while ''The Rise of Skywalker'' received a mixed response.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Julia |date=December 21, 2017 |title=Star Wars: The Last Jedi is being review-bombed on Rotten Tomatoes (update) |url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/12/18/16792184/star-wars-the-last-jedi-rotten-tomatoes-review-bomb |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211021141849/https://www.polygon.com/2017/12/18/16792184/star-wars-the-last-jedi-rotten-tomatoes-review-bomb |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |access-date=October 21, 2021 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Brandon |last=Katz |title=No, Disney Isn't Erasing the 'Star Wars' Sequel Trilogy |url=https://observer.com/2020/07/disney-isnt-ignoring-erasing-star-wars-lucasfilm-box-office/ |website=[[The New York Observer]] |date=July 15, 2020 |access-date=October 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817110804/https://observer.com/2020/07/disney-isnt-ignoring-erasing-star-wars-lucasfilm-box-office/ |archive-date=August 17, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Drew |last=Taylor |title=One Year Later, 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' Still Sucks |url=https://collider.com/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-still-bad/ |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |date=December 18, 2020 |access-date=October 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818102802/https://collider.com/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-still-bad/ |archive-date=August 18, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}


== References ==
== References ==
=== Citations ===
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em|refs=

<ref name="CastDaniels">{{cite web |first=Jeff |last=MacGregor |title=How Anthony Daniels Gives C-3PO an Unlikely Dash of Humanity |url=https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/anthony-daniels-c3po-unlikely-dash-humanity-180967212/ |website=[[Smithsonian (magazine)|Smithsonian]] |date=December 2017 |access-date=November 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506210129/https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/anthony-daniels-c3po-unlikely-dash-humanity-180967212/ |archive-date=May 6, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="CastDriver1">{{Cite magazine |last=Romano |first=Nick |date=December 21, 2019 |title=Who are the Knights of Ren? Unmasking Kylo's troupe in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker |url=https://ew.com/movies/2019/12/21/knights-of-ren-explained-star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211112134005/https://ew.com/movies/patty-jenkins-star-wars-movie-rogue-squadron-delayed/ |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastDriver2">{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Julia |date=July 19, 2017 |title=Here's your first look at Kylo Ren's latest upgrade in Star Wars: The Last Jedi |url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/7/19/16000964/kylo-ren-star-wars-last-jedi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211113001113/https://www.polygon.com/2017/7/19/16000964/kylo-ren-star-wars-last-jedi |archive-date=November 13, 2021 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastDriver3">{{Cite web |last=Levine |first=Nick |date=January 5, 2017 |title=Adam Driver on what to expect from Kylo Ren in 'Star Wars: Episode VIII' |url=https://www.nme.com/photos/film-photos/adam-driver-on-what-to-expect-from-kylo-ren-in-star-wars-episode-viii-1935412 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211112134101/https://www.nme.com/photos/film-photos/adam-driver-on-what-to-expect-from-kylo-ren-in-star-wars-episode-viii-1935412 |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |website=[[NME]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastFisher1">{{Cite web |last=Liptak |first=Andrew |date=December 27, 2016 |title=Carrie Fisher has died at the age of 60 |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/12/27/14074922/carrie-fisher-star-wars-princess-leia-obituary |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211112015545/https://www.theverge.com/2016/12/27/14074922/carrie-fisher-star-wars-princess-leia-obituary |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=November 12, 2021 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastFisher2">{{Cite web |last=Lumb |first=D. |date=August 17, 2018 |title='Star Wars Resistance' trailer shows off its anime style |url=https://www.engadget.com/2018-08-17-star-wars-resistance-trailer-shows-anime-style-debut-october-7th.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211112015512/https://www.engadget.com/2018-08-17-star-wars-resistance-trailer-shows-anime-style-debut-october-7th.html |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=November 12, 2021 |website=[[Engadget]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastFord1">{{cite web |title=Star Wars: Han Solo origin film announced |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-33439026 |website=[[BBC]] |date=July 8, 2015 |access-date=November 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204170915/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-33439026 |archive-date=December 4, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="CastFord2">{{Cite web |last=Epstein |first=Adam |date=July 8, 2015 |title=11 actors who are Harrison Ford-y enough to pull off a young Han Solo |url=https://qz.com/447959/11-actors-who-are-harrison-ford-y-enough-to-pull-off-a-young-han-solo/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211105205701/https://qz.com/447959/11-actors-who-are-harrison-ford-y-enough-to-pull-off-a-young-han-solo/ |archive-date=November 5, 2021 |access-date=November 5, 2021 |website=[[Quartz (publication)|Quartz]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastHamill1">{{Cite web |last=Sinha-Roy |first=Piya |date=December 16, 2015 |title='The Force Awakens' with journey to recover a missing Skywalker |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/film-starwars/the-force-awakens-with-journey-to-recover-a-missing-skywalker-idUSL1N1442HW20151216 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211108223951/https://www.reuters.com/article/film-starwars/the-force-awakens-with-journey-to-recover-a-missing-skywalker-idUSL1N1442HW20151216 |archive-date=November 8, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2021 |website=[[Reuters]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastHamill2">{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Gael Fashingbauer |date=October 10, 2017 |title=I'm 'The Last Jedi.' Me. Luke. At least I'm pretty sure I am |url=https://www.cnet.com/news/who-is-the-last-jedi-star-wars-luke-skywalker-rian-johnson/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211106051407/https://www.cnet.com/news/who-is-the-last-jedi-star-wars-luke-skywalker-rian-johnson/ |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |access-date=November 6, 2021 |website=[[CNET]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastMayhew1">{{Cite web |last1=Richwine |first1=Lisa |last2=Gorman |first2=Steve |date=May 3, 2019 |title=Peter Mayhew, actor who played Chewbacca in 'Star Wars' movies, dies |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-people-starwars-chewbacca/peter-mayhew-actor-who-played-chewbacca-in-star-wars-movies-dies-idUSKCN1S82DB |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211103233730/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-people-starwars-chewbacca/peter-mayhew-actor-who-played-chewbacca-in-star-wars-movies-dies-idUSKCN1S82DB |archive-date=November 3, 2021 |access-date=November 4, 2021 |website=[[Reuters]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastMayhew2">{{cite magazine |first=Anthony |last=Breznican |author-link=Anthony Breznican |title=Watch Chewie become co-pilot in Solo: A Star Wars Story clip |url=https://ew.com/movies/2018/05/04/solo-star-wars-story-chewbacca-millennium-falcon/ |date=May 4, 2018 |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |access-date=November 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180507185012/https://ew.com/movies/2018/05/04/solo-star-wars-story-chewbacca-millennium-falcon/ |archive-date=May 7, 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="CastNyongo1">{{Cite web |last=Diaz |first=Eric |date=January 8, 2020 |title=Maz Kanata Wasn't CGI In The Rise Of Skywalker |url=https://nerdist.com/article/star-wars-rise-of-skywalker-maz-kanata-cgi-puppet/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104221858/https://nerdist.com/article/star-wars-rise-of-skywalker-maz-kanata-cgi-puppet/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 5, 2021 |website=[[Nerdist Industries]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastNyongo2">{{Cite web |last=Anderton |first=Joe |date=May 10, 2017 |title=Star Wars hints at connection between Maz Kanata and classic character with Battlefront II Easter egg |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a839898/star-wars-battlefront-ii-easter-egg-boba-fett-slave-i-maz-kanata/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104221848/https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a839898/star-wars-battlefront-ii-easter-egg-boba-fett-slave-i-maz-kanata/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 5, 2021 |website=[[Digital Spy]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastSerkis">{{Cite web |last=Ankers |first=Adele |date=October 19, 2020 |title=New Star Wars Book Clears Up Mystery About Snoke's Origins |url=https://sea.ign.com/news/164820/new-star-wars-book-clears-up-mystery-about-snokes-origins |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211113005538/https://sea.ign.com/news/164820/new-star-wars-book-clears-up-mystery-about-snokes-origins |archive-date=November 13, 2021 |access-date=November 13, 2021 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastVonSydow1">{{Cite web |last=Blauvelt |first=Christian |date=March 9, 2020 |title=Max von Sydow, Who Bridged the European Arthouse and Hollywood, Dies at 90 |url=https://www.indiewire.com/2020/03/max-von-sydow-dies-at-90-tribute-obituary-1202216344/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211106215857/https://www.indiewire.com/2020/03/max-von-sydow-dies-at-90-tribute-obituary-1202216344/ |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2021 |website=[[IndieWire]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastVonSydow2">{{Cite web |last=Travis |first=Ben |date=March 9, 2020 |title=Max Von Sydow Dies Aged 90 |url=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/max-von-sydow-dies-aged-90/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211106215846/https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/max-von-sydow-dies-aged-90/ |archive-date=November 6, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2021 |website=[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastSuotamo">{{Cite web |last=Hawkes |first=Rebecca |date=January 6, 2016 |title=The 'secret' Chewbacca: meet the 6'11" basketball player who shared the role with Peter Mayhew |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/star-wars-the-force-awakens/chewbacca-actor-double-joonas-suotamo-peter-mayhew/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104043605/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/star-wars-the-force-awakens/chewbacca-actor-double-joonas-suotamo-peter-mayhew/ |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 4, 2021 |website=[[The Daily Telegraph]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CastWhyte">{{Cite web |last=Groundwater |first=Colin |date=June 10, 2021 |title=This 7-foot Actor Is the Go-to for All Of Hollywood's Giants and Aliens (and Giant Aliens) |url=https://www.gq.com/story/meet-the-go-to-actor-for-giants-and-aliens |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211104043642/https://www.gq.com/story/meet-the-go-to-actor-for-giants-and-aliens |archive-date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=November 4, 2021 |website=[[GQ]]}}</ref>

<ref name="GleesonAndPegg">{{cite web |last=Davis |first=Edward |title='Star Wars: The Force Awakens': Domhnall Gleeson Revealed To Be On The Dark Side As General Hux |url=http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/star-wars-the-force-awakens-domhnall-gleeson-revealed-to-be-on-the-dark-side-as-general-hux-20150710 |publisher=[[IndieWire]] |access-date=July 10, 2015 |date=July 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713205049/http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/star-wars-the-force-awakens-domhnall-gleeson-revealed-to-be-on-the-dark-side-as-general-hux-20150710 |archive-date=July 13, 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

<ref name="LATLastJedi">{{Cite web |last=Yamato |first=Jen |date=December 14, 2017 |title=13 characters you need to know before seeing 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-mn-star-wars-last-jedi-characters-20171214-htmlstory.html |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211112020206/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-mn-star-wars-last-jedi-characters-20171214-htmlstory.html |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |access-date=November 12, 2021 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]]}}</ref>

<ref name="RadioTimesTROS">{{Cite web |last=Cremona |first=Patrick |date=December 19, 2019 |title=Meet the cast of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker |url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/sci-fi/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-cast/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20211117000854/https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/sci-fi/star-wars-the-rise-of-skywalker-cast/ |archive-date=November 17, 2021 |access-date=November 17, 2021 |website=[[Radio Times]]}}</ref>
}}

=== Works cited ===
* {{cite book |last=Szostak |first=Phil |title=The Art of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker |year=2019 |publisher=[[Abrams Books]] |isbn=978-1-4197-4038-1}}

== Further reading ==
* {{cite book |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens: The Visual Dictionary |first=Pablo |last=Hidalgo |author-link=Pablo Hidalgo |year=2015 |publisher=DK Publishing |location=New York |isbn=978-1-4654-3816-4}}


== External links ==
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* {{Official website|http://www.starwars.com/films/star-wars-episode-vii-the-force-awakens|''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''}} at {{URL|starwars.com/|StarWars.com}}
* {{IMDb title|2488496|Star Wars: The Force Awakens}}
* {{Official website|http://lucasfilm.com/productions/episode-vii|''Star Wars: The Force Awakens''}} at {{URL|lucasfilm.com/|Lucasfilm.com}}
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Revision as of 04:13, 30 December 2024

Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Theatrical release poster
Directed byJ. J. Abrams
Written by
Based onCharacters
by George Lucas
Produced by
Starring
CinematographyDan Mindel
Edited by
Music byJohn Williams
Production
companies
Distributed byWalt Disney Studios
Motion Pictures
Release dates
Running time
138 minutes[1]
CountryUnited States
LanguageEnglish
Budget$447 million (net)[2]
Box office$2.071 billion[3]

Star Wars: The Force Awakens (also known as Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens) is a 2015 American space opera epic film co-produced, co-written, and directed by J. J. Abrams. The sequel to Return of the Jedi (1983), it is chronologically the seventh film of the "Skywalker Saga". Set thirty years after Return of the Jedi, The Force Awakens follows Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, and Han Solo's search for Luke Skywalker and their fight in the Resistance, led by General Leia Organa and veterans of the Rebel Alliance, against Kylo Ren and the First Order, a successor to the Galactic Empire. The film stars Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong'o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, and Max von Sydow.

Work on a seventh entry in the "Skywalker Saga" commenced after the Walt Disney Company's acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012. The film is the first Star Wars film to not extensively involve franchise creator George Lucas, who only served as a creative consultant in the early stages of production. The Force Awakens was produced by Abrams, his longtime collaborator Bryan Burk, and Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. Abrams and Lawrence Kasdan, co-writer of the original trilogy films The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi, rewrote an initial script by Michael Arndt. John Williams, composer for the previous episodic films, returned to compose the score. Principal photography began in April 2014 and concluded the following November. Filming took place on sets at Pinewood Studios in England, and on location mainly in Abu Dhabi, Iceland, and Ireland. On a budget of $447 million, it is the most expensive film ever made.

The Force Awakens premiered in Hollywood, Los Angeles, on December 14, 2015, and was released in the United States on December 18. It was positively received by critics, who found it an action-packed film with the mix of new and familiar actors capturing the nostalgia of the original trilogy and giving the franchise new energy.[4] The film grossed $2.07 billion worldwide, breaking various box office records and becoming the highest-grossing film in the United States and Canada, the highest-grossing film of 2015, and the third-highest-grossing film at the time of its release. It was nominated for five awards at the 88th Academy Awards and received numerous other accolades. The film was followed by The Last Jedi (2017) and The Rise of Skywalker (2019), rounding out the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

Plot

Thirty years after the Battle of Endor,[a] the First Order has risen from the fallen Galactic Empire and seeks to end the New Republic. The Resistance, led by General Leia Organa, opposes the First Order. Leia searches for her twin brother, Luke Skywalker, who is missing.

On the desert planet Jakku, Resistance pilot Poe Dameron receives a map to Luke's location. First Order stormtroopers commanded by Kylo Ren arrive and capture Poe. His droid, BB-8, escapes with the map and encounters Rey, a lone scavenger. Kylo tortures Poe using the Force and learns of BB-8. Stormtrooper FN-2187, disillusioned with the First Order, saves Poe, and they escape in a stolen TIE fighter. Upon learning that FN-2187 has no other name, Poe names him "Finn". As they head to Jakku to retrieve BB-8, a First Order Star Destroyer shoots them, and they crash-land. Finn survives and assumes Poe was killed after finding his jacket in the wreck. Finn encounters Rey and BB-8, but the First Order tracks them and launches an airstrike. Rey, Finn, and BB-8 steal the Millennium Falcon and escape Jakku.

The Falcon is discovered and boarded by Han Solo and Chewbacca. Gangs seeking to settle debts with Han attack, but the group escapes in the Falcon. At the First Order's Starkiller Base, a planet converted into a superweapon, Supreme Leader Snoke approves General Hux's request to use the weapon for the first time on the New Republic. Snoke questions Kylo's ability to deal with emotions surrounding his father, Han Solo, whom Kylo states means nothing to him.

Aboard the Falcon, Han determines that BB-8's map is incomplete. He then explains that Luke attempted to rebuild the Jedi Order but exiled himself when an apprentice turned to the dark side, destroyed Luke's temple, and slaughtered the other apprentices. The crew travels to the planet Takodana and meets with cantina owner Maz Kanata, who offers help getting BB-8 to the Resistance. The Force draws Rey to a secluded vault, where she finds Anakin Skywalker's lightsaber. She experiences disturbing visions, including a childhood memory of a ship leaving her on Jakku. Rey denies the lightsaber at Maz's offering and flees into the woods. Maz gives Finn the lightsaber for safekeeping.

Starkiller Base destroys the New Republic capital and its four neighboring planets, leaving the Resistance on their own. The First Order attacks Takodana in search of BB-8. Han, Chewbacca, and Finn are saved by Resistance X-wing fighters led by Poe, who survived the crash. Leia arrives at Takodana with C-3PO and reunites with Han. Meanwhile, Kylo captures Rey, having realized that she had seen the map, and takes her to Starkiller Base, but she resists his mind-reading attempts. Snoke orders Kylo to bring Rey to him. Discovering she can use the Force, Rey escapes using a Jedi mind trick on a stormtrooper guard.

At the Resistance base, BB-8 finds R2-D2, who had been in low-power mode since Luke's disappearance. As Starkiller Base prepares to fire once more, the Resistance plans to destroy it by attacking its thermal oscillator. Using the Falcon, Han, Chewbacca, and Finn infiltrate the facility, find Rey, and plant explosives. Han confronts Kylo, calling him by his birth-name Ben, and implores him to abandon the dark side. Kylo seems to consider this but ultimately kills Han. Chewbacca shoots Kylo, injuring him, and sets off the explosives, allowing Poe to attack and destroy the base's thermal oscillator.

Kylo pursues Rey and Finn into the woods and incapacitates Rey. Finn uses the lightsaber to duel Kylo but is quickly defeated. Rey awakens, takes the lightsaber, and defeats Kylo in a duel. Snoke orders Hux to evacuate and bring Kylo to him to complete his training. Chewbacca saves Rey and the injured Finn, and they escape aboard the Falcon. As the Resistance forces flee, Starkiller Base implodes and erupts into a star. R2-D2 awakens and reveals the rest of the map, which points to the oceanic planet Ahch-To.

Rey, Chewbacca, and R2-D2 travel to Ahch-To on the Falcon. Rey finds Luke atop a cliff on a remote island and presents him with his lightsaber.

Cast

The cast of Star Wars: The Force Awakens at the 2015 San Diego Comic Con

Tim Rose and Mike Quinn reprise their respective roles as Admiral Ackbar and Nien Nunb from Return of the Jedi, with Erik Bauersfeld and Kipsang Rotich returning their respective voices.[16] Kenny Baker, originally announced as part of the cast, was credited as "consultant" for R2-D2,[28][16] with Jimmy Vee performing some of the work for R2-D2.[29] Ewan McGregor has an uncredited vocal cameo as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Rey's vision sequence, while archival audio of Frank Oz and Alec Guinness as Yoda and Kenobi, respectively, are also used in the same scene; Oz recorded new dialogue for the film, but it was replaced with preexisting audio from The Empire Strikes Back.[30] Star Wars: The Clone Wars voice actor James Arnold Taylor, who has voiced Obi-Wan Kenobi in different Star Wars media, originally recorded Kenobi's dialogue, but his recordings were replaced with McGregor's.[31]

Gwendoline Christie portrays Captain Phasma, the commander of the First Order's legions of stormtroopers.[32][33] Dave Chapman and Brian Herring served as puppeteers for BB-8,[34] with Bill Hader and Ben Schwartz credited as "Vocal Consultants".[35] Ken Leung appears as Statura, an admiral in the Resistance.[36] Simon Pegg appears as Unkar Plutt, the Junk parts dealer on Jakku.[37][38] Greg Grunberg plays Temmin "Snap" Wexley, an X-wing pilot.[39][40] Kiran Shah plays Teedo, a scavenger on Jakku who rides a semi-mechanical Luggabeast.[16][41] Jessica Henwick appears as Jess "Testor" Pava or Jess Testor, an X-wing pilot.[42][43][44] Brian Vernel appears as Bala-Tik, the leader of the Guavian Death Gang.[45] Yayan Ruhian and Iko Uwais appear as Tasu Leech and Razoo Qin-Fee, members of the Kanjiklub Gang, a criminal organization.[16] Warwick Davis appears as Wollivan, a tavern-dweller in Maz Kanata's castle.[46][47] Anna Brewster appears as Bazine Netal, a First Order spy, also at Maz Kanata's castle.[16] Hannah John-Kamen appears as a First Order officer.[16] Thomas Brodie-Sangster and Kate Fleetwood play First Order Petty Officers, Thanisson and Unamo, respectively.[48][49] Billie Lourd, daughter of Carrie Fisher, appears as Connix, a lieutenant in the Resistance.[50][51] Members of the Resistance include Emun Elliott as Brance[52] and Maisie Richardson-Sellers as Korr Sella[53] while Harriet Walter appears as Kalonia, the doctor who tends to Chewbacca.[54][55] Mark Stanley appears as a Knight of Ren.[55] Sebastian Armesto portrays Lieutenant Mitaka and Pip Torrens portrays Colonel Kaplan, both serving the First Order.[16]

Daniel Craig, Michael Giacchino, and Nigel Godrich cameo as stormtroopers.[56][57] Abrams' assistant, Morgan Dameron, appears as a Resistance officer,[58] while his father, Gerald W. Abrams, appears as Captain Cypress.[59] Dialect coach Andrew Jack portrays Resistance Major Caluan Ematt.[60] Additionally, Crystal Clarke, Pip Andersen,[61] Christina Chong,[62] Miltos Yerolemou,[63] Amybeth Hargreaves,[64] Leanne Best,[65] Judah Friedlander,[66] and Kevin Smith appear in minor roles.[67] Riot control stormtrooper FN-2199, who calls Finn a traitor during the battle on Takodana, was portrayed by stunt performer Liang Yang and voiced by sound editor David Acord.[68]

Production

Development

Star Wars creator George Lucas discussed ideas for a sequel trilogy several times after the conclusion of the original trilogy, but denied any intent to make it.[69] A seventh entry in the "Skywalker Saga", a nine-part Star Wars series,[70][71] began development shortly after Lucas sold his production company Lucasfilm to the Walt Disney Company in October 2012.[72][73][74] Speaking alongside Lucasfilm's new president, Kathleen Kennedy, Lucas said: "I always said I wasn't going to do any more and that's true, because I'm not going to do any more, but that doesn't mean I'm unwilling to turn it over to Kathy to do more."[75]

As creative consultant on the film, Lucas attended early story meetings and advised on the details of the Star Wars universe.[76] Among the materials he turned over to the production team were his rough story treatments for Episodes VII–IX, which Lucas requested be read only by Kennedy, Bob Iger, Alan F. Horn, and Kevin A. Mayer.[76] Lucas later said Disney had discarded his story ideas and that he had no further involvement with the film.[77][78][79] Lucas' son Jett told The Guardian that his father was "very torn" about having sold the rights to the franchise and that his father was "there to guide" but that "he wants to let it go and become its new generation".[80]

From left to right: producer Kathleen Kennedy, writer and director J. J. Abrams, and writer Lawrence Kasdan speaking at the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con

The Force Awakens' first screenplay was written by Michael Arndt.[81] At the time of his hiring, Arndt was also tapped to pen story treatments for the following installments.[82] Arndt took part in a writers room with Simon Kinberg, Lawrence Kasdan, Pablo Hidalgo, and Kiri Hart to discuss and plan the overall trilogy.[83] Early drafts had Luke Skywalker appear midway through the film, but Arndt found that "every time Luke came in and entered the movie, he just took it over. Suddenly you didn't care about your main character anymore."[84] The writers decided to use Luke as the film's MacGuffin and, as something that the protagonists needed to find, would not appear in person until the final scene.[84] Arndt also developed some backstory elements for the returning characters from the original trilogy, such as how Leia was instrumental in rebuilding the Republic after the fall of the Empire before being discredited when it was publicly revealed that her biological father was Darth Vader (this would go on to become a central plot point in the canonical novel Star Wars: Bloodline).[85]

Several directors were considered, including David Fincher,[86] Brad Bird,[87] Jon Favreau,[88] and Guillermo del Toro.[89] Bird was reportedly the "top choice" to helm the film, but his commitments to Tomorrowland forced him to withdraw.[90] Matthew Vaughn was an early candidate for the job, even dropping out of X-Men: Days of Future Past in favor for the film.[91] Colin Trevorrow was also under consideration by the studio, while Ben Affleck and Neill Blomkamp passed on the project.[92][93][94][95] After a suggestion by Steven Spielberg to Kennedy,[96] J. J. Abrams was named director in January 2013,[97] with Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg as project consultants.[98] Kasdan worked to convince Abrams to direct the film after the filmmaker initially rejected the offer.[99][100] Arndt worked on the script for eight months, but said he needed 18 more, which was more time than Disney or Abrams could give him.[101] The production announced Arndt's exit from the project on October 24, 2013. That same day, Kasdan and Abrams took over script duties,[102] both of whom planned the story while walking in Santa Monica, California, New York City, Paris, and London. The first draft was completed in six weeks.[103] Abrams said the key to the film was that it return to the roots of the first Star Wars films and be based more on emotion than explanation.[104] In January 2014, Abrams confirmed that the script was complete.[105] In April 2014, Lucasfilm clarified that Episodes VII–IX would not feature storylines from the Star Wars expanded universe, though other elements could be included, as with the TV series Star Wars Rebels.[106]

Abrams stated that he purposely withheld some plot elements from The Force Awakens, such as Rey and Finn's last names and backgrounds. Kennedy admitted that "we haven't mapped out every single detail [of the sequel trilogy] yet", but said that Abrams was collaborating with The Last Jedi director Rian Johnson, and that Johnson would work with The Rise of Skywalker's then-director Colin Trevorrow to ensure a smooth transition and that "everybody's got a say in how we move forward with this".[107] Daisy Ridley later recounted that J. J. Abrams had written drafts for episodes 8 and 9.[108]

A fictional language was developed for use in the film by YouTube star Sara Forsberg, who created the viral video series "What Languages Sound Like To Foreigners"; Forsberg developed the language by studying various languages, such as Hindi and Gujarati.[109]

In November 2015, Lucas recorded an hour-long interview with CBS News reporter Charlie Rose in which he said Disney had not been "keen" to involve him and conceded: "If I get in there, I'm just going to cause trouble because they're not going to do what I want them to do, and I don't have the control to do that any more, and all it would do is just muck everything up."[110] He also said, "They wanted to do a retro movie. I don't like that. Every movie, I worked very hard to make them different [...] I made them completely different—different planets, different spaceships to make it new."[111][112] In early December 2015, Kathleen Kennedy told The Hollywood Reporter that Lucas had seen the movie and "liked it".[113] In the same month, at the Kennedy Center Honors, Lucas stated, "I think the fans are going to love it, It's very much the kind of movie they've been looking for."[114] Abrams felt that, as the first in a new trilogy, the film "needed to take a couple of steps backwards into very familiar terrain" and use plot elements from previous Star Wars films.[115]

Pre-production

In May 2013, it was confirmed that The Force Awakens would be filmed in the United Kingdom. Representatives from Lucasfilm met with Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne to agree to produce The Force Awakens in the UK.[116] Osborne committed £25 million of public money towards the film, claiming it was a boost for British culture and its film industry.[117] According to production company account filings in the United Kingdom, The Force Awakens ultimately received a total of £31.6 million ($47.4 million) from the government.[118][119]

Beginning in September 2013, production spaces at the Bad Robot facility were converted for shooting of The Force Awakens for the benefit of shooting a minor portion of the film in the United States.[120] The film's costume designer was Michael Kaplan, who had previously worked with Abrams on the films Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek Into Darkness (2013).[121] Film editors Mary Jo Markey and Maryann Brandon, long-term collaborators with Abrams, were also signed.[122] In August 2013, it was announced that cinematographer Daniel Mindel would be shooting the film on 35 mm film (specifically Kodak 5219).[123] In October 2013, other crew members were confirmed, including sound designer Ben Burtt, director of photography Mindel, production designers Rick Carter and Darren Gilford, costume designer Michael Kaplan, special effects supervisor Chris Corbould, re-recording mixer Gary Rydstrom, supervising sound editor Matthew Wood, visual effects supervisors Roger Guyett, and executive producer Jason McGatlin.[124]

Casting

Open auditions were held in the United Kingdom and the United States in November 2013 for the roles of "Rachel" and "Thomas".[125] Casting began in earnest in January 2014, because of changes to the script by Kasdan and Abrams.[126] Screen tests with actors continued until at least three weeks before the official announcement in April 2014, with final casting decisions made only a few weeks earlier. Actors testing had strict nondisclosure agreements, preventing them, their agents or their publicists from commenting on their involvement.[127] Though Lucas intimated that previous cast members Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford, and Mark Hamill would return for the new film as early as March 2013,[76] their casting was not confirmed until over a year later.[28]

Abrams set out to have a more diverse cast than previous installments.[128] A very early report claimed the studio wanted Ryan Gosling, Leonardo DiCaprio and Zac Efron for roles.[129][130] In September 2013, Michael B. Jordan, Saoirse Ronan, and David Oyelowo were among the first to meet with the director.[131] In January 2014, The Hollywood Reporter revealed Benedict Cumberbatch, Jack O'Connell, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alex Pettyfer, Jesse Plemons, Sullivan Stapleton, Tye Sheridan, Hugo Weaving, Michael Fassbender, and Adam Driver all met with Abrams for the film. The role Sheridan met for was ultimately rewritten to be played by a 40 year old actor, while Weaving was in talks for an "Imperial commander".[132] Ronan, Jordan, Frida Gustavsson, and later Miles Teller would go on to confirm their auditions for the film.[133][134][135][136] Industry publications speculated that Plemons could possibly be playing Luke Skywalker's son.[137] In February, Driver was in final negotiations for an unnamed villain, while Gary Oldman revealed he was approached for an undisclosed role.[138][139] In March, John Boyega, Plemons, Ray Fisher, Matthew James Thomas and Ed Speleers were Abrams' top choice for the lead role.[128] Boyega began talks after dropping out of the Jesse Owens biopic Race.[127] That same month, Lupita Nyong'o was said to have met also met with Abrams for the female lead.[140] In April 2014, Plemons and Thomas were no longer in contention for the film.[141] That same month, Maisie Richardson-Sellers, an "unknown Oxford actress", and Dev Patel were up for unknown roles.[142][143] Ronan, Richardson-Sellers, Courtney Eaton, Eiza Gonzalez, Elizabeth Olsen and Jessica Henwick auditioned for Rey.[144][145][146][147][148] Joseph David-Jones, Tom Holland, and Daryl McCormack were later reported to have auditioned for Finn while McCormack made it to the final round of auditions for the part.[149][150][151] Eddie Redmayne and Joel Kinnaman tested for Kylo Ren.[152][153]

Daisy Ridley was cast by February 2014, and by the end of that month a deal had been worked out with Driver, who was able to work around his Girls schedule. Talks with Andy Serkis and Oscar Isaac began by March and continued into April.[127] Denis Lawson, who played Wedge Antilles in the original trilogy, declined to reprise his role, saying it would have "bored" him.[154]

In April, Ridley, Boyega, Isaac, Driver, Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, and Max von Sydow were announced as part of the cast; while Ford, Hamill, Fisher, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, and Baker reprised their roles from the original trilogy.[28] In June, cast additions Lupita Nyong'o and Gwendoline Christie were announced.[32] To prepare for his role, Hamill was assigned a personal trainer and a nutritionist at the request of the producers, who wanted him to resemble an older Luke.[155] Fisher was also assigned a personal trainer and a nutritionist.[155] Abrams initially considered using Daniels only in a voice role for C-3PO,[156] but Daniels opted to reprise the role physically as well; the production team built a new C-3PO costume to accommodate him.[157] A flashback scene was cut from Rey's vision (following her discovery of Luke's lightsaber), which would have featured Robert Boulter standing in for Luke as he appeared in his duel with Vader in The Empire Strikes Back.[158]

In May, Abrams announced a donation contest for UNICEF from the Star Wars set in Abu Dhabi; the winner was allowed to visit the set, meet members of the cast and appear in the film.[159] In October, Warwick Davis, who played Wicket in Return of the Jedi, as well as Wald and Weazle in The Phantom Menace (1999), announced that he would appear in The Force Awakens, but did not reveal his role.[160] In November, Debbie Reynolds confirmed that her granddaughter (Fisher's daughter), Billie Lourd, was in the film.[50] Lourd first auditioned for the role of Rey prior to her casting.[161]

Filming

The Rub' Al Khali desert around Liwa Oasis in the United Arab Emirates was used as filming location for planet Jakku.

In February 2014, Abrams said filming would begin in May and last about three months.[104] The official announcement came in March, when Disney and Lucasfilm announced that principal photography would commence in May and be based at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, England.[162] That month, it was revealed that pre-production filming would take place in Iceland prior to the start of official filming in May, consisting of landscape shots that would be used for scenery in the film.[163] In April, Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Horn confirmed that filming had begun,[164] filming in secret in the United Arab Emirates around Liwa Oasis, part of the emirate of Abu Dhabi, by a second unit.[165] Later that month, it was revealed that in addition to 35 mm film, segments of the film were being shot in the 65 mm IMAX format.[166] In July, Bad Robot reported via Twitter that the film would be at least partially shot on IMAX cameras.[167]

Principal photography began in Abu Dhabi on May 16, 2014.[168] The budget was initially estimated to be between $259 million and $306 million,[118][169] but in 2023 financial accounts revealed the gross spend was $533 million and the net cost after tax breaks was $447 million.[2] Abrams and the cast members went to Abu Dhabi in early May, where large sets were built on location—including a shuttle-like spacecraft, a large tower, and a big market—and where explosives were used to create a "blast crater". Cast members were spotted practicing driving vehicles that would be used during filming.[170] Production moved to Pinewood Studios in June.[171]

view over Skellig Michael showing stone beehive structures and Small Skellig island in the distance
concrete missile silo covered in grass
Skellig Michael in Ireland (top) and former RAF Greenham Common in England served as filming locations.

That same month, Harrison Ford fractured his leg while filming at Pinewood after a hydraulic door on the Millennium Falcon set fell on him, and was taken to a hospital. According to Abrams, Ford's ankle "went to a 90-degree angle".[101] Production was suspended for two weeks because of Ford's injury.[172] Ford's son Ben said the ankle would likely need a plate and screws and that filming could be altered slightly, with the crew needing to shoot Ford from the waist up for a short time until he recovered.[173] A month later, Jake Steinfeld, Ford's personal trainer, said Ford was recovering rapidly.[174] Abrams also suffered a fractured vertebra in his back when he was trying to help lift the door after Ford's accident,[101] but he kept this to himself for over a month.[175] In February 2016, it was reported that the Health and Safety Executive brought four criminal charges against Disney subsidiary Foodles Production (UK), Ltd. for alleged health and safety breaches relating to Ford's accident.[176] Foodles Production (UK) Ltd was subsequently fined $1.95 million in October 2016 for two health and safety breaches, after admitting the counts at an earlier hearing.[177]

On July 28, 2014, filming took place over three days at Skellig Michael, an island off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland, with a cast including Mark Hamill and Daisy Ridley.[178] Landscape shots for the planet Takodana were shot in July in the Lake District in the northwest of England.[179] Production was halted for two weeks in early August 2014 so Abrams could rework shooting in Ford's absence and resumed with a fully healed Ford in mid-August.[180][181] In September, the former RAF Greenham Common military base in Berkshire was used and featured set constructions of several spaceships.[182][183] Puzzlewood in the Forest of Dean Gloucestershire England was used for some scenes.[184] Principal photography ended on November 3, 2014.[185]

Post-production

Bad Robot headquarters in Santa Monica, where Abrams supervised post-production of the film

Kennedy said The Force Awakens would use real locations and models over computer-generated imagery.[186] Johnson reiterated that Abrams would use little CGI and more practical, traditional special effects, saying: "I think people are coming back around to [practical effects]. It feels like there is sort of that gravity pulling us back toward it. I think that more and more people are hitting kind of a critical mass in terms of the CG-driven action scene lending itself to a very specific type of action scene, where physics go out the window and it becomes so big so quick."[187] Abrams' intention in prioritizing practical special effects was to recreate the visual realism and authenticity of the original Star Wars.[188] To that end, the droid BB-8 was a physical prop developed by Disney Research,[189] created by special effects artist Neal Scanlan and operated live on set with the actors.[190][191] The Holochess sequence was created using stop-motion, which was supervised by Tippett Studio and overseen by Phil Tippett, who also worked on the stop-motion sequence in the original Star Wars film.[192][193]

In February 2014, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) announced plans to open a facility in London, citing Disney's Star Wars films as a catalyst for the expansion. ILM's Vancouver branch also worked on the special effects for the film.[194] Abrams supervised post-production and editing of the film at Bad Robot's headquarters in Santa Monica.[101] In August 2015, he gave the film's estimated running time of 124 minutes.[195] Abrams made changes to the film's plot in the editing process to simplify the film, by removing some sequences shown in trailers: "At one point, Maz used to continue along with the characters back to the Resistance base, but we realised that she really had nothing to do there of value [...] So we ended up leaving those things out."[196] The final cut of the film runs for 138 minutes.[197]

On November 6, 2014, the film's title was announced as Star Wars: The Force Awakens.[198] In December 2015, Pablo Hidalgo, the creative executive at the Lucasfilm Story Group which handles all the canonical continuity for the Star Wars universe, revealed that the working title for the film was Shadow of the Empire "for the longest time".[199]

Music

In July 2013, John Williams was confirmed to return to compose the sequel trilogy, beginning with The Force Awakens.[200] He began working on the film in December 2014, and by June 2015 had been through most of the film reels, working on a daily basis.[201][202] In May 2015, Williams said he would return to themes from the previous films, such as those for Luke, Leia, and Han, in ways that "there are a few that I think are important and will seem very much a part of the fabric of the piece in a positive and constructive way." He said that working with Abrams was similar to the process he went through with Lucas in the earlier films.[203]

Recording sessions for The Force Awakens began in June 2015 at the Sony Pictures Studios' Barbra Streisand Scoring Stage in Culver City, with William Ross conducting most of the music.[204] The first day of recording was June 1, 2015.[205] Williams attended the sessions and conducted the remainder of the recordings in Los Angeles.[206]

The score was recorded in 12 sessions within a five-month period between June and mid-November. The 90-piece orchestra recorded 175 minutes of music; however, Abrams re-edited the film, which discarded, modified, or re-recorded the score's part for nearly an hour. Williams' theme for Snoke was recorded by a 24-voice men's chorus.[207] Gustavo Dudamel conducted the opening and end title music for the film at Williams' behest.[208] Recording of the score was completed on November 14, 2015.[209] The film's soundtrack was released by Walt Disney Records on December 18, 2015.[210] Williams' score is more than two hours long.[202]

Lin-Manuel Miranda and Abrams contributed music to the film's cantina scene. Abrams met Miranda at a performance of his Broadway musical Hamilton, where Miranda jokingly offered to compose cantina music, should it be needed. Unknown to Miranda, Williams had previously told Abrams that he did not want to compose the music for that scene, wanting to focus on the orchestral score. Abrams then contacted Miranda, and the two collaborated on the music for the scene over a period of two months.[211]

Marketing

Promotion

Disney backed The Force Awakens with extensive marketing campaigns.[212][213] Deadline Hollywood estimated the media value was $175 million;[214] its costs alongside home media revenues had later risen to $423 million by The Guardian.[215] On November 28, 2014, Lucasfilm released an 88-second teaser trailer. It was screened in selected cinemas across the United States and Canada and in theaters worldwide in December 2014. It was also released on YouTube and the iTunes Store,[216] generating 58.2 million views on YouTube in its first week.[217] Critics compared the brief footage favorably to the production values of the original trilogy. The Hollywood Reporter called the trailer "perfectly potent nostalgia", praising its mix of old and new.[218] Empire was impressed by the continuity with the first films—"the feel of classic Star Wars"—but noted the absence of Hamill, Ford, and Fisher and speculated about the significance of the new characters.[219] The Guardian wrote that the use of the Star Wars fanfare by John Williams reinforced brand loyalty among fans.[220]

Large-scale outdoor advertising for Star Wars: The Force Awakens in the city center of Nuremberg, Germany

On December 11, 2014, Abrams and Kennedy released a series of eight mock Topps trading cards revealing the names of several characters.[221] On April 16, 2015, a second teaser trailer, this one lasting two minutes, was shown at the opening panel at the Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy said the reaction to the trailer was "staggering [...] the entire room of almost eight thousand people just leapt to their feet and roared, I mean I can't think of anything I've ever been to—other than a rock concert—that felt quite like that".[222] The trailer was viewed over 88 million times within the first 24 hours of release.[223] The trailer shows many of the new characters and the first footage of Chewbacca and Han Solo. The Huffington Post's Graham Milne wrote that the trailer "was an affirmation of something that we'd long been told was never going to happen. This was a gift. This was faith rewarded. About damn time."[224]

Vanity Fair was the first magazine to release an exclusive cover issue devoted to The Force Awakens. The magazine, released on May 7, 2015, featured exclusive interviews and photos of the cast photographed by Annie Leibovitz.[225] At the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, in addition to a panel with many of the actors, a behind-the-scenes look at the film demonstrated the film's use of practical sets and effects. It was positively received, with Nigel M. Smith of The Guardian writing: "The featurette's angle is a strong one and connects with fans of the original trilogy in an incredibly poignant way. It also does a sly job of teasing Fisher's new look as Leia and Simon Pegg's mysterious involvement as a rumored alien in the movie, without actually showing the actors in action." Smith compared the marketing strategy for the film to that of a previous Abrams film, Super 8, saying "the promos [...] are notable for what they tease, not what they give away."[226]

Walt Disney Studios and Lucasfilm presented a look at The Force Awakens at Disney's D23 Expo in August 2015.[227] Drew Struzan—who designed the poster artwork for the previous Star Wars films—produced a commemorative poster given to the event's attendees.[228] In October 2015, Lucasfilm unveiled the theatrical release poster and a third trailer. The poster omitted Luke Skywalker and revealed a Death Star-like "orb".[229] The trailer debuted during the halftime break of Monday Night Football, before being released online.[230] The reaction to the trailer by fans on social media was "frenzied", with Lizo Mzimba of the BBC writing that "perhaps the most significant thing about the final trailer before the film's release is how little of the story it reveals."[231] Robbie Collin of The Daily Telegraph felt the trailer was "a perfect blend of old and new, in keeping with the old-fashioned Star Wars aesthetic".[232] The trailer received 128 million views in 24 hours. 16 million of the views came from its airing on Monday Night Football.[233] At the end of October, Air France announced a "Flight and Cinema" package, providing customers who book select flights to Paris transportation to a theater to see the film, since France was one of the first countries to release the film.[234] On November 23, a partnership with Google was announced, in which Google users could choose to affiliate themselves with either the Dark or Light Side, which would change the appearance of their Google websites. Additionally, Disney teamed up with Verizon to create a virtual-reality experience for Google Cardboard.[235]

On December 17, 2015, select theaters across the United States and Canada aired a Star Wars marathon, airing the six previous Star Wars episode films in 2D, followed by The Force Awakens in 3D. Attendees received a special lanyard featuring exclusive marathon art.[236]

Tie-in literature and merchandise

Disney Publishing Worldwide and Lucasfilm announced a series of at least 20 books and comics, "Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens", which were released by multiple publishers starting in late 2015, prior to the film's premiere. The series includes books by Del Rey and Disney-Lucasfilm publishers and comic books from Marvel Comics. All titles under the program are canonical to the Star Wars universe.[237] Alan Dean Foster wrote a novelization of The Force Awakens which was released in e-book form on December 18.[238] In an effort to avoid revealing plot details before the film's release, the print release of the novelization was delayed until January 2016.[238] Marvel Comics published a six-issue comic book adaptation of The Force Awakens between June and November 2016.[239]

Disney Consumer Products and Lucasfilm announced that September 4, 2015 would be deemed "Force Friday" and would be the official launch of all the merchandise for The Force Awakens. Beginning at 12:01 am, fans could buy toys, books, clothing and various other products at Disney Stores and other retailers throughout the world.[240] Disney and Maker Studios hosted an 18-hour live-streaming presentation on YouTube, showcasing multiple merchandise products beginning on September 3, 2015.[241][242] Among these products were a remote-controlled BB-8 developed by Sphero.[189] Sphero had participated in a Disney-run startup accelerator in July 2014, where they were invited into a private meeting with Disney CEO Bob Iger, in which they were shown on-set photos and imagery of BB-8 before its public unveiling.[243][244] Many retailers, such as Toys "R" Us, were unable to meet demand for Star Wars products due to the event.[245]

Video games

Select characters, scenes and locations from the film became part of other Star Wars video games: Characters from the film were added to an update to the mobile game Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, available for iOS and Android and released by Electronic Arts;[246] free downloadable content for Electronic Arts' Star Wars Battlefront reboot allowed players to battle on the planet Jakku;[247] an update to the mobile game Star Wars Commander, released by Disney Mobile for iOS, Android and the Windows Store, allowed players to battle on the planet Takodana during the Galactic Civil War era;[248] and a condensed version of the film's plot becomes an add-on "playset" in the toys-to-life game Disney Infinity 3.0, with Finn, Rey, Poe Dameron, and Kylo Ren as playable characters.[249] Eventually, the film got a full Lego video game adaptation, titled Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which was released by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on June 28, 2016.[250]

Release

Theatrical

The premiere tent, with the film's poster above

Star Wars: The Force Awakens premiered on December 14, 2015, at the TCL Chinese Theatre, El Capitan Theatre, and Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles.[251] A white tent stretched along Hollywood Boulevard from Orange Drive to Highland Avenue, covering the "massive" premiere event that hosted more than five thousand guests.[252] The film was originally scheduled for a mid-2015 release, but in November 2013, it was pushed back to December 18, 2015.[253] It was also released in 3D, RealD 3D and IMAX 3D formats.[254]

In the United States and Canada, it had the widest release of December across 4,134 theaters,[255] of which 3,300 were 3D locations, a record 392 IMAX screens (13 of which were 70mm), 451 premium large format screens, 146 D-Box locations,[256][257] as well as releasing in the Dolby Vision format (high-dynamic range, Rec. 2020 color) in Dolby Cinema.[258] Worldwide, it was released across 940 IMAX theaters, a new record.[257] On December 18, 2015, the film began playing on every IMAX screen in the United States and Canada for four straight weeks up to January 14, 2016. This made it the first film since Warner Bros.' The Hobbit trilogy to receive such a release.[259] The film finally shed some of its IMAX screens with the release of The Revenant (2015) and The Finest Hours (2016) in mid-January 2016.[260]

Advance ticket sales for the film began on October 19, 2015,[261] and were in strong demand, resulting in online movie ticket sites crashing.[262][263] Vue Cinemas, the United Kingdom's third-largest theater chain, sold 45,000 tickets in 24 hours, 10,000 of which were sold in 90 minutes, a record for the theater.[264] In the United States, the film pre-sold a record-breaking $6.5 million worth of IMAX ticket sales on a single day. IMAX has never previously registered more than $1 million in pre-sales on a single day.[265] In total, it sold over $50 million in pre-sales, breaking the record.[266][267] This number was raised to $100 million including $50–60 million in advance ticket sales by December 14.[267][268] However, not all tickets that were pre-sold were for the film's opening weekend, with Fandango President Paul Yanover saying "people have set aside tickets for screenings in January, weeks after the big opening [...] We have people buying Star Wars [The Force Awakens] into 2016. It's not just an opening-weekend phenomenon."[266] Similarly, the film broke pre-sales records in the UK,[269] Canada,[270] and Germany.[271]

The Force Awakens is the first live-action Star Wars film not to be released theatrically by 20th Century Fox; accordingly the film is not introduced with either that company's logo, or its signature fanfare composed by Alfred Newman.[272] Instead, the film is the first in the series to be distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures,[3] and the film is presented with only Lucasfilm's production logo shown silently before the main titles.[273] Disney chairman Bob Iger explained that the decision not to place Disney branding on the film was "for the fans".[274]

A poster from mainland China was criticized for being racist due to shrinking the size of the Black character Finn compared to non-Chinese posters.[275][276][277]

Home media

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment released Star Wars: The Force Awakens through digital download and Disney Movies Anywhere on April 1, 2016, and on Blu-ray and DVD on April 5. Physical copies include behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, interviews,[278] and additional footage with eight bonus features.[279] In its first week, The Force Awakens sold 669,318 DVDs and 3.4 million Blu-rays as the most sold film on both formats in the United States.[280] That same week, The Force Awakens topped the Nielsen VideoScan First Alert chart, which tracks overall disc sales, as well as the dedicated Blu-ray sales chart with 83% of unit sales coming from Blu-ray.[281] Overall, The Force Awakens sold 2.1 million DVDs and 5.9 million Blu-rays, adding them up to get a total of 8 million copies, and made $191 million through home media releases.[280]

A Blu-ray 3D "collector's edition" of the film was released on November 15, including all the features of the original home releases, as well as several new bonus features, including new deleted scenes and audio commentary by director J. J. Abrams.[282] The package includes a Blu-ray 3D, regular Blu-ray, DVD, and digital copy of the film, as well as an additional Blu-ray disc for the bonus features.[282]

The movie was rereleased on DVD in 2019 as part of the 9-disc "Skywalker Saga" boxed set. It received a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release on March 31, 2020. This 4K release was then included in the 27-disc Skywalker Saga box set on April 20, 2020.[283]

Broadcast syndication

The premium cable network Starz had U.S. broadcast syndication rights for The Force Awakens in January 2016,[284] just before the end of Starz's output deal covering most Disney films through 2015.[285] That September, The Force Awakens began broadcasting on all Starz networks.[286]

Reception

Box office

Star Wars: The Force Awakens grossed $936.7 million in the United States and Canada and $1.132 billion in other countries for a worldwide total of $2.068 billion,[3] making it the highest-grossing film of 2015[287] and the third highest-grossing film of all time.[288] Box Office Mojo estimates that the film sold close to 110 million tickets in the United States and Canada.[289] The Force Awakens earned 8.6% of the total 2015 releases in the United States and Canada, second only to the 8.8% of the box office earned by Titanic in 1997.[290] It was the 24th film in cinematic history to gross $1 billion worldwide, standing as the fastest film to surpass the mark at the time, doing so in 12 days.[291] It was also the third film in history to surpass $2 billion worldwide, doing so on its 53rd day of release.[292] Deadline Hollywood calculated the film's net profit as $780.1 million, accounting for production budgets, marketing, talent participations, and other costs; box office grosses and home media revenues placed it first on their list of 2015's "Most Valuable Blockbusters".[169]

Commercial analysis

Analysts said that the box office receipts of the film, when compared to predecessors, must be adjusted for inflation, and that the first Star Wars film made more when this adjustment is made.[293] It has further been observed that each of the first three films in the series was more profitable in calculating revenue against production costs.[293]

While The Force Awakens was very successful in the United States and Canada, the same success was not witnessed in many overseas individual markets such as India, other certain parts of Asia and Latin America. This was attributed to it being "a retro film" and how overseas audiences do not have the same nostalgia or affinity for the film as those in North America.[294][295][296] The Star Wars franchise has traditionally lacked resonance with filmgoers in China, and marketing for The Force Awakens heavily focused on appealing to that market.[295][297]

Nancy Tartaglione of Deadline Hollywood argued that, if accounting for its 40/60 domestic to international split, The Force Awakens did well overseas.[296] While the film had special effects, analysts felt that it lacked the novelty factor; they also stated that its gross was stilted due to markets making way for new films sooner than was previously done.[295] Dergarabedian stated, "No matter what, [The Force Awakens] is an absolute, all-out blockbuster without peer in terms of the sheer speed at which it has crossed all of these major box-office milestones."[294] Moreover, Mike Fleming Jr. of Deadline Hollywood argued that the movie was the "most valuable movie" of the year, with "the net profit to Disney was an astounding $780.11M, and the Cash on Cash Return was twice that of any other film [released in 2016], at 2.00".[298]

United States and Canada

In the United States and Canada, The Force Awakens was released on December 18, 2015. It made a record-breaking $57 million from Thursday night previews,[b] of which IMAX screenings generated a record-breaking $5.7 million from 391 screens.[302] On its opening day, the film grossed $119.1 million, marking the biggest single- and opening-day record[303] and the first time a film has earned more than $100 million in a single day.[304] Without Thursday-night grosses, the film earned the second-largest opening-day gross[305] and a record of $247.9 million for its opening weekend.[280] The debut was 19% bigger than the previous record holders The Avengers (2012) ($207 million) and Jurassic World (2015) ($208 million).[306] The opening weekend figure included an IMAX opening-weekend record of $30.1 million (12.65%) from 391 IMAX theaters,[307][308] which nearly amounts to the $252.5 million total earned by Return of the Jedi—the second-lowest-grossing film in the series—in its original run.[309] 2D screenings accounted for 53% of the total opening gross while 3D accounted for 47%. RealD 3D comprised $78 million of the opening gross, setting a new record.[307] At that time, the film had the biggest December opening weekend, breaking the previous record held by The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012).[310] It would hold this record until it was surpassed by Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) six years later.[311] Revenues in the film's second weekend decreased by only 39.8% in the United States and Canada, earning $149.2 million, to remain in first place at the box office[312] and recording the biggest second weekend of all time.[313]

On January 2, after just 16 days of release, it became the second film (following Avatar) to gross over $700 million in the United States and Canada,[314] and on January 6 became the highest-grossing film of all time domestically, doing so in 20 days.[315] On January 9, it became the first film in cinematic history to cross $800 million domestically unadjusted for inflation.[316] On February 5, The Force Awakens became the first film to earn over $900 million, unadjusted for inflation, in the United States and Canada.[317][318] The film fell outside of the top ten for the first time in its eleventh weekend during the weekend February 26–28, 2016,[319][320] and did not achieve $1 million in ticket sales for the first time in its fourteenth weekend.[321]

Other territories

Internationally, the film was released in over 30,000 screens.[322] It opened on December 16, 2015, in 12 international markets and earned $14.1 million on its opening day, debuting at first place in all of them.[323] It expanded in an additional 42 countries on December 17, generating $58.6 million for a two-day international total of $72.7 million, reaching first place in all 44 markets.[324] It grossed a total of $129.5 million in three days after adding $56.8 million on its third day,[324] and set a new midnight record in the United Kingdom with $3.6 million.[325] It broke opening-day records in the United Kingdom ($14.4 million), Germany ($7.1 million), Australia ($6.8 million),[302] Sweden ($1.7 million), Norway ($1.1 million),[323] and in 12 other countries.[325] Other markets which generated large opening days were Spain ($3.5 million) and Japan ($3 million).[324] After the five days, The Force Awakens had a total international opening gross of $281 million from 30,000 screens, a new record for December opening[322][326] and the third-biggest international opening of all time.[327] International markets generating opening-weekend tallies of at least $10 million were the United Kingdom ($50.6 million), Germany ($27.5 million), France ($22.5 million), Australia ($19.6 million), Japan ($13.4 million), and Russia ($12.3 million). The film had the biggest opening of all time in 18 countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Russia, and Sweden.[322][328]

After five days, the film had a total worldwide opening record of $529 million from 74 territories, which was the biggest worldwide opening at that time, making it only the second time in cinematic history—after Jurassic World—that a film had opened to more than $500 million globally.[326][329] This included an IMAX opening record of $48 million.[329] Revenues from IMAX dipped slightly, generating $19 million in its second weekend, for a record total of over $70 million in 11 days.[330] IMAX generated $17.9 million from 276 IMAX theaters.[308] The film had a steeper decline in its second weekend, falling 51% to $136.9 million.[331] The film had an unsuccessful opening in India where it opened third against two local blockbusters with a mere $1.51 million.[332] As of February 2016, the highest-grossing markets outside of the United States and Canada were the United Kingdom ($180.7 million), China ($124.5 million), Germany ($109.7 million), Japan ($92.6 million), and France ($88.2 million).[333] On January 17, 2016, it passed the $1 billion mark overseas becoming the first film of Disney, the third film of 2015 and the fifth film overall to achieve this feat.[334] It topped the international box office chart for five consecutive weekends, becoming the first film since Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) to have five straight wins, before being dethroned by The Revenant in its sixth weekend.[335] In Japan, it topped the box office for six straight weekends.[335]

Critical response

Star Wars: The Force Awakens received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics.[336] On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 93% of 451 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 8.3/10. The website's consensus reads, "Packed with action and populated by both familiar faces and fresh blood, The Force Awakens successfully recalls the series' former glory while injecting it with renewed energy".[4] Metacritic, which uses a weighted average, assigned the film a score of 80 out of 100, based on 55 critics, indicating "generally favorable" reviews.[337] Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of "A" on an A+ to F scale; women, and people under the ages of 25 and 18 gave it an "A+", while 98% of audiences gave it either an "A" or a "B". Audiences polled by PostTrak gave the film an 88% "definite recommend" while 96% said it met or exceeded their expectations.[338]

Robbie Collin of The Daily Telegraph said the film "sets out to shake Star Wars from its slumber, and reconnect the series with its much-pined-for past", and "it achieves this both immediately and joyously is perhaps the single greatest relief of the movie-going year."[339] Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian said that it was "both a narrative progression from the earlier three films and a shrewdly affectionate next-gen reboot", and it was "ridiculous and melodramatic and sentimental, but exciting and brimming with energy and its own kind of generosity."[340] Variety's Justin Chang wrote that the film has "sufficient style, momentum, love, and care to prove irresistible to any who have ever considered themselves fans."[341] Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times described it as "a beautiful, thrilling, joyous, surprising, and heart-thumping adventure".[342] Ann Hornaday, writing for The Washington Post, thought the film had "enough novelty to create yet another cohort of die-hard fans", and the film struck "all the right chords, emotional, and narrative, to feel both familiar and exhilaratingly new."[343] The Charlotte Observer's Lawrence Toppman said Abrams had "pulled off a delicate balancing act, paying clever homage to the past."[344] Mick LaSalle of the San Francisco Chronicle gave the film his highest rating and called it "the best Star Wars sequel yet and one of the best films of 2015".[345] Frank Pallotta, reviewing the film for CNN Business, found it was the best Star Wars film since the original trilogy and that it "is bound to be a film experience long remembered by fans and non-fans alike".[346]

Tom Long of The Detroit News wrote that though some may find the film too similar to the original Star Wars, it leaves "the ungainly and unneeded clumsiness of the subsequent prequels far behind", and "the energy, humor, and simplicity of direction [has] been recaptured".[347] The Tribune-Star called it "basically the same" as the original film but "isn't that what we all wanted anyway?"[348] Stephanie Zacharek of Time wrote that Abrams had delivered "everything we expect, as opposed to those nebulous wonders we didn't know we wanted".[349] Reviewing for Forbes, Scott Mendelson cited the film's "top-tier production values and a strong sense of scale and scope", but felt it was so much "an exercise in fan service [that] it is only due to the charisma and talent of our newbies and J. J. Abrams' undeniable skill as a visual storyteller that the Mad Libs narrative doesn't outright destroy the picture."[350] Brian Merchant of Motherboard said that the film "is supposed to be all about exploring the unexplored, not rehashing the well-trod", and that "one of the most unabashedly creative enterprises of the 20th century has been rendered another largely enjoyable, but mostly forgettable Hollywood reboot."[351] RogerEbert.com's Gerardo Valero said the movie "plagiarized" A New Hope and resorted to nostalgia. He felt that it "didn't [justify] a return to the universe" from not having an original story of its own to tell in the plot, characters, and musical score, negatively comparing it to George Lucas' prequel trilogy, and that some of its climactic moments felt unearned.[352]

From Star Wars filmmakers

In an interview with journalist Charlie Rose that aired on December 24, 2015, Lucas likened his decision to sell Lucasfilm to Disney to a "divorce" and outlined the creative differences between him and the producers of The Force Awakens. Lucas described the previous Star Wars films as his "children" and criticized the "retro feel" of The Force Awakens, saying: "I worked very hard to make [my films] completely different, with different planets, with different spaceships—you know, to make it new." Lucas also likened Disney to "white slavers", which drew some criticism; he subsequently apologized.[353][354] In a 2019 memoir, Disney chairman Bob Iger said that George Lucas "couldn't even hide his disappointment" towards J. J. Abrams' interpretation. According to Iger, Lucas said, "there's nothing new" after seeing the film, and that "there weren't enough visual or technical leaps forward".[355][356] Lucas preferred Rian Johnson's sequel The Last Jedi and the anthology film Rogue One (2016).[357][358]

Accolades

Several awards held their nominations before the December release of The Force Awakens, making the film ineligible for the 73rd Golden Globe Awards and some other awards ceremonies.[359] However, the film was added to the 21st Critics' Choice Awards' slate of best picture nominees after a special vote by the board of directors,[360] and the announcement of the 2015 American Film Institute Awards was delayed until after the release of The Force Awakens,[359] where it was named one of the top-ten films of 2015.[361]

At the 88th Academy Awards, The Force Awakens received nominations for Best Film Editing, Best Original Score, Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Visual Effects.[362] The film's other nominations include four British Academy Film Awards (winning one) and a Critics' Choice Movie Award.[363][364]

Fan backlash

The release of the first film trailer for The Force Awakens in 2015 spurred a racial backlash against the casting of Boyega, a Black British actor, in such a prominent role.[365] Some social media users called for a boycott of the film, which they accused of being "anti-white"[366] and of promoting "white genocide".[367] One such account promoted the Cultural Marxism conspiracy theory.[368] The character of Rey was also criticized as a too-perfect "Mary Sue" character by a group of fans who became known as the "Fandom Menace", who focused their ire at Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy, whom they accused of spoiling the film franchise by including "forced diversity" and pro-feminist politics.[369]

Sequels

The Force Awakens was followed by the sequels The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, which conclude the sequel trilogy.[71] Both grossed over $1 billion, ranking among the highest-grossing films of the year.[370][371] The Last Jedi garnered positive reviews from critics while The Rise of Skywalker received a mixed response.[372][373][374]

Notes

  1. ^ As depicted in Return of the Jedi (1983)
  2. ^ The $57 million figure incorporates revenues generated from the "Star Wars Marathon Event" from 135 theaters in which all previous six Star Wars films were shown along with Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Ticket prices cost $59.99 for all the films (including The Force Awakens) at an average of $8.57 per movie.[299][300][301]

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Works cited

Further reading