Abrams' Force for Change Update Reveals New X-Wing

In a new video (below) to promote Force for Change, J.J. Abrams stood by a "new" X-Wing Starfighter however based on the aging done to the prop its actually old within the post-Return of the Jedi world the story is set in. The Force for Change charity is to support UNICEF with a chance to donate for a chance win a set visit in London and be an extra in Star Wars Episode VII. It has a kind of Kickstarter feel to it with different donation levels that also give you a chance to win other Star Wars related prizes. Full details and how to donate is here. After that is an additional video from Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert to promote the charity drive.

Star Wars Adds Two, Planning Hiatus

Two new cast members have been added to Star Wars Episode VII as the production plans on a two hiatus in August. The two cast members are Pip Anderson and Crystal Clarke. Both are literal unknowns as Clarke's first roles are still in post-production while Anderson is known in parkour circles so expect he will be used for ability to perform stunt work while acting. Per usual Abrams' cone of silence rules, no information was released about what characters they would playing but I suspect both will be minor supporting roles. As for the filming break, the cause is related to Harrison Ford's broken leg (or sprained ankle, reports vary) that was caused by a door on the Millennium Falcon set.

"The Star Wars universe has always been about discovering and nurturing young talent and in casting Episode VII we wanted to remain absolutely faithful to this tradition. We are delighted that so many travelled to see us at the open casting calls and that we have been able to make Crystal and Pip a part of the film," said Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy in the Sunday casting statement.