Star Wars Episode VII Set Photos Showcase Practical Effects

Following only two official Star Wars Episode VII-related releases -- a cast photo at a table read of the script and a short video shot on set to promote charity -- fans now have their first real sense for the look and feel of the sequel thanks to a batch of new set photos taken last month in Abu Dhabi in which you can see actors in costume and large practical effects. TMZ has over 40 photos from the set (the production has since moved to Pinewood Studios in London), including props, sets, and new creatures that can be seen in life-sized glory. Click on that link to see them. Star Wars stars Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill will return to reprise their roles opposite newcomers John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, and Max von Sydow. Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, and Kenny Baker will also star in a film directed by J.J. Abrams from a script he co-wrote with Lawrence Kasdan (and a plot by Michael Arndt? It's not clear whether he'll still get a credit). The film debuts in the U.S. on December 18, 2015.