J.J. Abrams to direct Star Wars Episode VII

While it has not been officially confirmed, the internets are buzzing that JJ Abrams will direct the new Star Wars movie. The seventh in the franchise, the movie will take place after the events of Return of the Jedi. Word has it that Ben Affleck was also in contention to direct, but Kathleen Kennedy, the producer, was courting Mr. Abrams as the top choice.

Roberto Orci, co-writer of the recent and forthcoming Star Trek films, seems to think the news is quite true.
He commented on his twitter account.

“@naddycat: @boborci Any chance you can confirm/deny about Mr Abrams directing Star Wars? So far just a lot of “sources say”…” True!

Abrams’ latest film, Star Trek: Into Darkness, is set to be released to theaters May 17. Reaction is mixed. While many are excited, others are apprehensive that the Star Trek director will helm the film for the main franchise competitor, Star Wars.

Who knows, maybe we’ll see Keri Russel as an extra…

[Source]

[UPDATE] Disney has confirmed that JJ Abrams will direct Star Wars Episode VII!