Fandom abuzz in the wake of Walt Disney Pictures' recent confirmation of plans to develop stand-alone films in the Star Wars universe, The LA Times spoke with writer Lawrence Kasdan who is said to be writing one of those solo films and consulting overall on J.J. Abrams' Star Wars: Episode VII.

“I’m trying to start fresh,” Kasdan explains. “There are certain pleasures that we think the saga can bring to people that they’ve been missing, and we’re hoping to bring them that, and at the same time, have them feel that it’s all new.”

Although recent rumors have suggested that Kasdan's film may follow either the adventures of a young Han Solo or those of Boba Fett, the screenwriter did not confirm the focus of his specific project. He did say, however, that it was George Lucas himself who asked that he return to the Star Wars universe.

“George sort of brought me into this part of it," he says, "and he’s stepping back from the company. He’s sort of given his blessing to everybody, and he’ll be there if you need him. I think everyone’s interested to see where this can go. It’s been some very different places over 30 years …. I think with J.J., we’ll get something entirely new.”

Star Wars: Episode VII is tentatively planned for release in 2015 with two sequels and stand-alone films following within the next six years.

(Photo Credit: Daniel Tanner / WENN.com)