The start date for principal photography on the Han Solo anthology film has been confirmed, as the production team on Star War: Episode IX also begins to assemble in readiness for a lengthy period of pre-production.

The Han Solo project begins shooting next month, with the exact date listed on Production Intelligence. It stars Alden Ehrenreich in the lead role, with supporting cast reportedly including Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover and Woody Harrelson. Filming is due to run for around five months.

The next big hitter in the rebooted Star Wars canon is also rumbling along towards pre-production. Star Wars: Episode IX is bedding in at a UK studio – details on PI – with crew beginning to gather. PI subscribers should log in and follow the film as we will be returning with updates over the coming months.

Colin Trevorrow is at the helm to direct Star Wars: Episode IX. He is also involved as exec producer/writer on the untitled Jurassic World sequel, which is based in the UK as well and due to begin shooting next month.

Production Intelligence has comprehensive listings for major feature films lining up to shoot in the UK this year, including inward investment projects such as Tomb Raider, Mission: Impossible 6, Mary Poppins and Tim Burton’s Dumbo.

Alden Ehrenreich photo via Getty Images Ent/Ben A Pruchnie.