The force is strong in the UK. The upcoming Star Wars movie has reportedly boosted the economy by £150 million ($231 million).
The highly anticipated Star Wars: Episode VII–The Force Awakens was filmed at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, England. Through the creation of hundreds of jobs, hiring of equipment and studios, the film brought in millions to the economy, according to analysis by the Telegraph.
Avengers: Age of Ultron and the latest James Bond film Spectre were also filmed at Pinewood, which reported record revenue in its latest fiscal year and is planning to add 12 new stages.
Two further Star Wars films—Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Episode VIII, whose name hasn’t been announced —will also film studio scenes in the UK. To celebrate the release of the film, the UK has released a set of 18 first-class stamps, which include images of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and princess Leia.
Star Wars: Episode VII–The Force Awakens, which will be released this December, could make $2.2 billion globally according to one investment analyst—which would place it second to Avatar, the highest grossing film of all time. The film pays homage to old, well-loved characters played by Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher, while also introducing some new characters played by Daisy Ridley and John Boyega.
Disney has revved up publicity for the film and one analyst expects tie-in consumer merchandise to generate $5 billion in revenue in the first year. Earlier this year, Disney announced two immersive Star Wars theme parks, which are expected to be a huge attraction for fans.