A fan question on Twitter prompted Mark Hamill to reveal that the production of Star Wars: Episode VIII will end on July 22. Few days before filming ends, fans from all over the world will gather in London for the Star Wars Celebration Europe, where the first official details about the upcoming movie are expected to be released. The title of the film may also be revealed at the event, which Hamill and Episode VIII director Rian Johnson will be attending.

The London celebration will take place from July 15-17. The next important dates for fans are July 21-24, especially for those planning to attend the San Diego Comic-Con. Given that the next film’s production ends on July 22, the cast members are unlikely to be there. This second event will also provide an excellent setting for the announcement of Episode VIII’s title.

A fan question on Twitter prompted Mark Hamill to reveal that filming of Star Wars: Episode VIII will end on July 22. Photo credit: Disney / Independent
A fan question on Twitter prompted Mark Hamill to reveal that the filming of Star Wars: Episode VIII will end on July 22. Photo credit: Disney / Independent

“Patience My Padawans,” Hamill, who plays Luke Skywalker in the movie saga, wrote in his tweet. A ‘Padawan’ is a term for a young Jedi apprentice, a role that Rey (Daisy Ridley) is expected to be playing in the upcoming film. An experienced Jedi Master will teach her the ways of the Force.

Although the movie will go in for the post-production phase, the cast may have to return for reshoots if necessary. Episode VIII will hit movie theaters on Dec. 15, 2017. Hamill decided to limit himself to reveal only the end date of filming, meaning that fans will have to continue to rely on speculations about the plot, including theories about Rey’s powers.

YouTuber Mike Zeroh suggests that the Padawan girl has amazing abilities to read minds and points out to the moment when she quickly knew that the deepest fear of Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) is that he has no chances of becoming as powerful as Darth Vader.

Mike’s theory is also based on the scene in which Rey’s facial expression changes towards the end of The Force Awakens and then composes herself. The YouTuber says she was able to read his mind, which could explain why she had such an emotional reaction.

Star Wars Celebration promises something for everyone at the unique event

The fan experience based on a distant galaxy will bring people of all ages together to celebrate the phenomenon of the unique saga, which has inspired many other movies and TV shows. The official website of the event describes the celebration as “Lucasfilm’s love letter to fans,” as it promises three days full of fun, exhibits, autograph sessions, customs, exclusive merchandise, an interactive show floor and many other surprises.

The memorable experience will run from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 15, and Saturday, July 16. The Celebration Experience Exhibit Hall, located at the ExCeL London Exhibition Centre, will close at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday but fans attending Friday and Saturday could enjoy special events until 10:00 p.m. or even later.

Inspired on the Rebel Alliance, Star Wars Celebration avoids keeping a permanent home by traveling around the world to prevent Imperial detection, as explained on the website. Last year’s experience took place in Anaheim, California. The idea is to bring the unique celebration to as many Star Wars fans as possible.

Source: Business Insider