Maz Kanata lives: Rian Johnson offers proof from Star Wars VIII sets

In a new behind-the-scenes photo posted by director Rian Johnson, Maz Kanata, the character played by Lupita Nyong’o seems to have survived the First Order attack on her castle and will be back for the follow-up movie, Star Wars Episode VIII.

In a new behind-the-scenes photo posted by director Rian Johnson, Maz Kanata, the character played by Lupita Nyong’o seems to have survived the First Order attack on her castle and will be back for the follow-up movie, Star Wars Episode VIII.

Maz Kanata is played by Lupita Nyong’o in a motion capture performance.

Watch: Luke Skywalker announces Star Wars Episode VIII, makes our day

The black-and-white photo was shared by the upcoming film’s director and writer Rian Johnson on Tumblr.

http://rcjohnso.tumblr.com/post/142244762595

Apparently taken on the motion capture set, it shows someone who’s presumably Nyong’o standing in the middle of a stage wearing a motion capture suit. Her alien character is seen in two screens set up around her.

Episode VIII has started its production and is slated to open in theatres across the US on December 14, 2017.

Check out a video of Rian Johnson kicking off production on Episode VIII here

Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega and Oscar Isaac will be back to reprise their respective roles.

Meanwhile, Benicio Del Toro, Laura Dern and newcomer Kelly Marie Tran will be among new cast members.

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