John Boyega’s suggests a ‘darker’ follow-up with Star Wars: Episode VIII

Back in December, Star Wars newcomer Daisy Ridley — who played Rey in The Force Awakens — revealed that she had read the script to Episode VIII already, teasing, "It's very good; very good." Now it's time to hear from the film's other star — John Boyega, who played Finn.

Speaking to Vogue, Boyega briefly touched upon the next installment in the core Star Wars saga, describing it as "great" and "much darker" than The Force Awakens. The actor also teased his part in the next film will be "much more physical."

Boyega didn't elaborate beyond that, but his choice of words are quite interesting given the comparisons The Force Awakens drew to A New Hope. Many have criticized director J.J. Abrams for playing it a bit too safe with The Force Awakens, essentially rebooting the plot of Episode IV with new characters and a newer, stronger Death Star (that turns out is just as easily destroyed). With those comparisons in mind, it's interesting that Boyega would describe the second film in the new trilogy as "darker," as many have that same feeling about Empire Strikes Back when compared to A New Hope.

The Force Awakens certainly had it's fair share dark moments, so it'll be fascinating to see how much darker the trilogy can get while still appealing to Disney's massive audience.

Star Wars: Episode VIII is due out on May 26, 2017.