Synopsis

Thirty years after the defeat of the Empire, the galaxy faces a new threat from the First Order. When scavenger Rey discovers a valuable droid carrying a vital map, she is drawn into a desperate search for the missing Luke Skywalker. Joined by Finn, Han Solo, and Chewbacca, Rey becomes part of a conflict that could determine the future of the Jedi and the Republic.

Factoids & Trivia

• Released on December 18, 2015, the film was the first live-action Star Wars feature produced after Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012.

• The production emphasized practical effects, physical sets, animatronic creatures, and real locations alongside digital effects. This approach was intended to recapture the tactile feel of the original trilogy.

• Lawrence Kasdan, who co-wrote The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, returned as a screenwriter. The script was developed from an earlier draft by Michael Arndt.

• John Williams received his 50th Academy Award nomination for the film's score.

• A specially arranged early screening was held for terminally ill Star Wars fan Daniel Fleetwood in November 2015, shortly before the film's theatrical release.

• The film launched a new Star Wars sequel trilogy and became a major box-office event, earning more than $2 billion worldwide.