The 'Star Wars: Episode 7' set in Abu Dhabi was described as being so far out in the middle of the dessert that it would be near impossible to get paparazzi shots of the top secret set. What they apparently didn't count on was one of the film's extras - soon to be never working in Hollywood again - taking a bunch of photos and selling them to TMZ. Which is exactly what has happened.

These 45 new photos from the Tatooine set are a mixed bag: there's some delightful stuff - including a new alien creature we're being told is operated by five puppeteers inside it's massive body ("producers intend to use less CG in the new movies -- instead, relying heavily on practical effects like the original trilogy") - and some tedious stuff, as well - a lot of fellow extras mugging for the camera.

But, it's our first real look at the new 'Star Wars: Episode 7' set, outside of J.J. Abrams' official video. It's also nice to see a lot of respect paid to the original trilogy, including the aforementioned practical effects and even the repurposing of some old Ralph McQuarrie concept art for Jabba's palace (seen above).

'Star Wars: Episode 7' will be filming in Abu Dhabi for the next few weeks before transitioning over to London's Pinewood Studios, where some second unit filming is currently underway. Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew and Kenny Baker are returning for the film and they’ll be joined by newcomers to the franchise, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, Max von Sydow, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Andy Serkis and Domhnall Gleeson.

'Star Wars: Episode 7' opens in theaters on December 18, 2015.

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