Thirty long years have passed since we last saw our favorite vest-cladded space smuggler finding redemption in a worthy cause. What has happened to Han Solo during that time? How has he changed? What kind of person is he now? These are all normal questions any "Star Wars" fan may bring up in advance of J.J. Abrams' "The Force Awakens." It's a testament to how much we care about these characters that we want to know everything that has happened since "Return of the Jedi." However, audiences shouldn't expect a point-by-point recounting of the last three decades.
Harrison Ford recently sat down with Cinema Blend to discuss his character's ongoing role in the "Star Wars" series. During the conversation, Ford was asked if "The Force Awakens" will cover that lost time. Though the actor suggested that won't be the focal point of the film, he did say that fans will get a sense of what's been going on with the scruffy-looking nerf herder.
"That's part of the genius in the telling of this story," Ford said. "There is backstory that is explained in the context of this film which explains the history that has occurred off-screen, and conditions the relationships you'll see played out in the telling of this particular story."
Taking a step back, this is how the original trilogy operated as well. Though extensive backstory was laid out during the prequels, the first "Star Wars" film plopped audiences into a galaxy far, far away with an already established narrative history that became clear as the movie told its central story. It sounds like "The Force Awakens" will similarly explain the past in an organic manner, rather than have Han give a detailed biography that would surely feel out of place.
Though fans have rightly pointed out Han's 180 in regards to the Force ("It's true. All of it."), Ford said it was important to retain the basic essentials of the character after 30 years.
"I think what's important is that you are faithful to the original character, and that the development of him proceeds without violating what you know about him. And yet gives you the opportunity for some surprises and growth in his character and nature."
"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" will finally hit theaters on Dec. 18.
