The Force is strong in Ireland, specifically in the Dingle Pennisula in County Kerry, where it has been confirmed that Star Wars: Episode VIII will be filmed in part during the next few months. Ceann Sibéal has been selected as one of the filming locations for the new movie, and preparations are already underway.
It seems the movie’s creative team has a love for the rugged scenery of the Emerald Isle. The strikingly beautiful Skellig Michael was used for a pivotal scene in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which came out in December 2015. Ceann Sibéal is equally as beautiful, with staggering rocky cliffs and lush green hills. It too will provide a great background for scenes in the new film.
Filming permits have been secured for the film on Ceann Sibéal, and both crew and security personnel have already started showing up in order to build roadways to create access paths for equipment. Local rumors point to late April to mid-May as the anticipated filming period, which is expected to last about two weeks.
Check out the production announcement clip that was released through the official Star Wars website. Though brief, it has some unmistakeable Irish landscape in the background.
If you plan to head over to Kerry and are looking to catch a glimpse of your favorite Star Wars actors however, you may need to do some exploring around the area or wish for a lucky encounter- word has it that the hotels in the area are already booked and the filming will be conducted on private property. Security is going to be extremely tight, as the production team wants to keep details of the movie a closely guarded secret.
Star Wars: Episode VIII is being directed by Rian Johnson, and is expected to hit theaters in December 2017.
Are you a Star Wars fan, or headed to Kerry this spring? Let us know if you hear more about the filming!