'Star Wars: Episode 8' Plot Rumors: J.J. Abrams Praises Mark Hamill's Performance in 'The Last Jedi'
"Star Wars: Episode 8," officially subtitled "The Last Jedi," is arguably one of the most hotly anticipated films coming out this year--and for good reason. "The Force Awakens" and "Rogue One" have both done well critically, which has amped up the expectations for "The Last Jedi." But if J.J. Abrams is to be believed, it is Mark Hamill's performance that steals the show.
Hamill, who plays the iconic role of Luke Skywalker, is reprising the character in the upcoming film. It can be recalled that he made a very brief cameo in "The Force Awakens" at the end of the movie. After a long journey, Daisy Ridley's Rey came face to face with the Jedi. And while fans expected Luke to at least say something, he kept silent and simply gave a meaningful stare.
Abrams, who directed "The Force Awakens," has already seen "The Last Jedi." And while speaking to the New York Daily News, he praised Hamill's performance and even called it Oscar-worthy.
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"I think we are all going to be very upset if he does not win an Oscar, and no one more upset than Mark," Abrams said, as he continued to compliment Hamill's versatile acting. "He is hysterically funny. He has done comedy. He is an amazing guy — he can do anything."
Abrams is not the only person who has seen an early version of "The Last Jedi," though. Disney CEO Bob Iger previously revealed at an earnings call that the film is "a great next chapter in the iconic Skywalker family saga."
As for the film's first trailer, many are expecting it to be released in April at the annual "Star Wars" Celebration in Orlando, Florida. However, this has yet to be confirmed so readers should take this news with a grain of salt.
"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is set to premiere in U.S. theaters on Dec. 15, 2017.
