Not too many days can go on in movieland without something new going on with Star Wars. Last week, Variety confirmed rising actor Ian Kenny has joined the ensemble cast of presently untitled Han Solo prequel, currently in production. Kenny made an impression with his memorable performance in last spring’s acclaimed musical Sing Street, from director John Carney (Once, Begin Again).
The character Kenny will portray in the feature is currently under lock and key. However, the Disney-Lucasfilm Star Wars spin-off entry continues its reach in tapping new, rising talent. Alden Ehrenreich, rising star and steal-stealer of last year’s Hail, Caesar! steps into the lofty shoes worn by Han Solo creator Harrison Ford, while fresh budding stars like Donald Glover (The Martian), Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) and Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag) appear as well. Veteran performers Woody Harrelson (The Messenger), Thandie Newton (Crash) and Michael Kenneth Williams (The Wire) support.
Aside from Kenny’s involvement with the feature, we learned a few other things regarding the Han Solo prequel this past week as well. Disney CEO Bob Iger reportedly mentioned in an earnings call that the film would focus on Solo from when was 18-24 years old, reveal how he would come to own the famed Millennium Falcon and offer an introduction to his furry sidekick, Chewbacca. The film will be set ahead of Star Wars: A New Hope, similar to last winter’s mega Star Wars behemoth Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
Phil Lord and Christopher Miller direct, Jon Kasden and Lawrence Kasden penned the screenplay. Filming continues. The Untitled Han Solo Spin-off is set to hit theaters on May 25, 2018.