Even an actor as esteemed as Richard E Grant is amazed by the extreme security measures in place to avoid Star Wars 9 script leaks.
The British actor will make his first appearance in Hollywood’s blockbuster sci-fi franchise in Episode IX later this year, and got his first-hand taste of the Star Wars universe when production began last summer.
It’s safe to say that it was probably an experience like no other for Richard, who’s revealed his astonishment at having to read the script in front of security guards. According to the actor, Disney also make sure production crew keep a close eye out for drones flying over set.
Now that’s extra AF.
Detailing the cloak of secrecy surrounding the plot, Richard, 61, said on Monday’s episode of The One Show: ‘It’s extraordinary.
‘They don’t give you a script, you have to go to a room where there are bodyguards outside, closed-circuit television cameras, and it’s printed on crimson pages so you can’t photograph it. You have to read it in there, and then leave.’
Sounds tres James Bond-esque.
Rich added: ‘You’re given the pages on the day that you work, and you have to sign for them and sign out for them as well. There are security guards on the set.
‘They give you a cloak, over your head – because apparently they have drones going over Pinewood Studios so they try and take photographs of what people are playing.’
OK, this is getting next level.
Rumours are rife about which character Richard will play in the next episode, with fans adamant he’ll step into the shoes of Grand Admiral Thrawn, who first appeared in the 1991 novel, Heir to the Empire.
Shutting down the possibility, Richard said: ‘I’m not playing the Star Wars character you just mentioned. I’m not allowed to tell you anything. Otherwise I would be fired. It’s a complete lockdown on any information whatsoever.’
Star Wars: Episode IX will arrive in UK cinemas on 19 December 2019.