Star Wars spin-off receives an official title

Gareth Edwards' Star Wars spin-off now has a confirmed leading lady and an official title. Star Wars: Rogue One is currently set for a December 16, 2016 release and will star Oscar-nominee, Felicity Jones.

Many are speculating, including myself, that the Rogue One title isn't necessarily referring to a single character but to a ship. Originally the rumor was that the film would focus on a young Han Solo, but with Felicity Jones being cast in the lead role I don't think it will have much to do with Solo. The title also could be referencing the "Rogue Squadron" within the Rebel Alliance. Let's not forget Luke was the "Rogue Leader" for a while.

In addition to this news, Disney also announced today that Star Wars: Episode VIII will be released on May 26, 2017 with Rian Johnson directing. It appears the studio wants to get back to the May tradition Star Wars has always carried.

Felicity Jones to lead Star Wars spin-off

We learned last week that Oscar-nominee Felicity Jones was competing for the lead female role in Gareth Edwards' Star Wars spin-off. She was up against Rooney Mara and Tatiana Maslany but in the end Jones has won the role and will appear as Edwards' leading lady.

The plot for this film is unknown, but we do have a December 16, 2016 release date set by Disney. The second spin-off being directed by Josh Trank is not currently related or unrelated to this film, but it's assumed they will either tie into the original films or they will tie into the new trilogy.

I say welcome to the Star Wars universe, Felicity Jones. I'm sure you'll fit in just fine.