George Lucas changed cinema in 1977 with his first Star Wars movie, establishing himself as a visionary genius of the big screen. Five Star Wars movies and a Jar Jar Binks later, his reputation was a little more mixed...

It didn't come as that much of a disappointment to some, therefore, when we learnt that Lucas wouldn't be involved creatively with the current third trilogy in the franchise – but one person who does wish he was still offering guidance is Luke Skywalker actor Mark Hamill.

The 66-year-old, who will be returning for Star Wars: The Last Jedi, told US Metro: "What I wish is that [Disney, who bought the franchise from Lucasfilm] had been more accepting of his guidance and advice. Because he had an outline for 7, 8 and 9. And it is vastly different to what they have done."

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Bear Grylls//Digital Spy

However, the actor did acknowledge that Disney has had huge success with its new direction, commenting: "I don't want to be an old stick in the mud. There were the originals. There's the prequels. But that's all George. And now we have the next generation. And as far as I can see they are more popular than ever."

It's difficult to argue with that, with The Force Awakens having grossed $2.068 billion in 2015 and Rogue One taking $1.056 billion last year. The Last Jedi is expected to be a similar commercial hit, but on top of that, the movie is getting a full-on awards campaign from Disney.

The company has added the movie to its For Your Consideration page, putting it forward in all the major categories including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.

preview for Star Wars: The Last Jedi trailer

The Last Jedi had its world premiere on the weekend in Los Angeles, where director Rian Johnson dedicated the whole night to Carrie Fisher, who'll be making her final appearance as General Leia Organa in the film.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is released in cinemas in the UK on 14 December, with US cinemas following the next day on 15 December.

From: Digital Spy