The latest instalment to the Star Wars saga, Episode VII, is slated to captivate audiences around the globe late next year. For those of you unfamiliar with the finer details, here’s a list of things said to go down in the most hotly anticipated release of 2015.

1. In a galaxy 18 months away

Number VII will not be directed by George Lucas (he didn’t do V or VI either), but it will be helmed by sci-fi movie and television veteran JJ Abrams, who just recently re-energising the Star Trek franchise. Cameras on the Star Wars: Episode VII set are set to begin rolling in May 2014, with an expected public release in mid-December 2015.

2. Ménage à trois

Set thirty years after Return of the Jedi, Abrams’ wanted to introduce a new trio of lead characters. Two of these three will be the twin children of Princess Leia and Han Solo, with the other rumoured to be the son of Luke Skywalker, Ben.

3. Dark Side’s new victim

One of the Solo twins, Jacen Solo, is said to be lured over to the Dark Side to later become known as Darth Caedus. His twin sister Jaina remains a Jedi warrior and it should prove interesting to see what happens when these two are pitted against one another in the film.

4. Retro cameos

Just because we have a new lead cast, doesn’t mean some fan favourites won’t be making appearances. To date, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) will be making a return as Grand Master Jedi, mentoring the young Padawan Solo twins. Other characters making an appearance include Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Yoda.

5. In from the cold

One of the planets set to make an appearance is the Ice Planet Hoth. Star Wars fans will remember their first encounter with its ice tundras and snow storms from The Empire Strikes Back, as Luke Skywalker rode the iconic tauntaun.

6. Iconic score

Stars Wars is revered for many reasons, the unique characters, amazing visuals and fantastic one-liners. But one element that audiences will immediately identify with, is the score. The opening sequence of any Star Wars movie is iconic in every regard and the original composer for the previous six instalments, John Williams, will also handle Episode VII’s score.

Image: Fan made art for Episode VII. themadbutcher at bit.ly/1hh2lQi.