‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Photos Reveal New Look at the Cast

This year’s Star Wars Celebration kicked off yesterday in the best possible way. The Star Wars: The Force Awakens panel was a huge success beyond the premiere of the new trailer, giving cast and crew, old and new, a moment in the spotlight. And there was BB-8, the totally practical droid who looks poised to sell a couple million toys this Christmas. However, one of the most interesting parts of the panel was the series of behind-the-scenes photos that were projected throughout the discussion, showing off various sets and costumes. Now, those photos have made their way online.

Although the photos are spread across several sets (and therefore, several continents), the main subjects are fairly consistent. There’s director J.J. Abrams, looking about relaxed as a man directing the most anticipated movie of all time can look. There’s Daisy Ridley, dressed in desert robes and wielding a staff that looks like it could take the head off a Tusken Raider. There’s John Boyega, wearing a Stormtrooper uniform again even though he hilariously couldn’t confirm that he was playing a Stormtrooper in the movie. And then there’s Oscar Isaac, looking downright giddy to be piloting an X-Wing.

Oh, and BB-8 is there. Oh, BB-8. We love you. We barely even know you, but we love you.

These photos are genuinely overwhelming for any Star Wars fan. On one level, it’s just more Star Wars, which is reason enough to be excited. But notice the lack of green screens! Notice all of the practical sets and props and costumes! The Force Awakens already looks more alive and tangible than any of the prequels. There’s going to be tons of CGI in the finished movie, but knowing this much is real warms the heart.

Check out the photos for yourself below! Star Wars: The Force Awakens will hit theaters on December 18, 2015. So get comfortable and go through the new trailer frame-by-frame again.

Lucasfilm