Star Wars: The Last Jedi will hold its world premiere on December 8, 2017 - one week before it makes its way into theaters. The next chapter of the Skywalker saga is almost upon us, and Lucasfilm is doing their part to increase the already fervent levels of anticipation. Episode VIII merchandise has been on sale since the start of September, the countdown is on, and a new theatrical trailer is said to be right around the corner. While all of this is very exciting for fans, nothing is going to top when they can finally make their way to the multiplex and see the movie itself with their fellow Star Wars enthusiasts.
December 15 is the big day for the general public, but some lucky people will get to see Episode VIII a little early. In their Disney era, Lucasfilm has put together massive world premiere events for The Force Awakens and Rogue One, turning their arrivals into star-studded affairs. It goes without saying that a similar celebration is in the cards for The Last Jedi, and now it's been revealed when exactly that will be.
Curiously placed in a Variety write-up offering a current snapshot of this year's Oscar race is a nugget of information pertinent to those in a galaxy far, far away. The Last Jedi is mentioned among the possible contenders that have yet to screen, and it's said "Disney will world-premiere on Dec. 8." Granted, this is not official confirmation from Lucasfilm, so it's possible this date could change. However, the Mouse House and Lucasfilm probably have had something lined up well in advance, considering the amount of planning that goes into organizing a premiere like this.
Should this pan out, it means Episode VIII will screen one week before it opens in theaters. This is a double-edged sword for moviegoers at large. On one hand, reactions to the film will surely hit social media that night, giving people a basic idea of The Last Jedi's quality. However, if word-of-mouth starts to spread, there potentially could be plot spoilers popping up online, so viewers will have to be careful when browsing the web in early December. Fortunately, no major Force Awakens or Rogue One reveals made waves following their respective premieres, so it's evident Lucasfilm runs a tight ship. Premiere attendees are typically invited by the studio, and they'll be sure to carefully select critics and celebrities who will be strong ambassadors for Star Wars without ruining the experience for others.
This is a sign that Lucasfilm is proud of what writer/director Rian Johnson delivered, as they're willing to subject The Last Jedi to the court of public opinion well before its theatrical release. Undoubtedly, the film will do just fine at the box office, but a mixed or negative reception right before opening weekend would put a damper on spirits and possibly hurt its legs. However, all indications are Johnson continued the story in an exciting and compelling way, crafting a set of new rules for the franchise as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Hopefully, that's the case, and the premiere will be a day long remembered.
MORE: New Star Wars 8 Trailer Coming In October?
Source: Variety
