Jun 20, 2014 04:04 PM EST

Rian Johnson to Write and Direct Star Wars: Episode VIII

Rian Johnson (Looper) is in talks to write and direct "Star Wars: Episode VIII" according to to reports.

Disney and Lucasfilm have only just begun production on Episode VII, but are looking to secure someone who could concentrate on the next two films. It isn't clear what, if any, role current director J.J.Abrams will play in those episodes, even though Bad Robot will be producing.

"Star Wars: Episode VII" will be released December 18, 2015.