John Boyega talks ‘Star Wars The Force Awakens’ and using a lightsaber to battle Adam Driver
Just days away from the world premiere, star John Boyega opened up about his role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the most anticipated film in many, may years.
“I’m having so much fun, because you know what? They cast a Star Wars fan in a Star Wars movie,” he tells me. “Biiiiiig mistake!” The London-born actor tells The Verge in a new interview.
Boyega begins by talking about staying grounded, not letting the Star Wars frenzy consume him (and co-star Daisy Ridley).
“I think it’s probably because despite the short amount of time that I’ve had so far in my career, I have had a career, and have worked. So for me, I’m not going into something that is raw and fresh. Despite that it’s Star Wars and how huge it is, it’s still work to me, and that element of things grounds you, especially from nerding out a few times. Although, some days I can’t control myself. But apart from that, a good set of people behind you. Good family and friends. I’m lucky that I’ve disciplined myself in choosing who I allow into my heart [pounds fist on chest] so it’s benefited me in the long run. Now I’m ready for the ride.”
The Attack the Block star will be joined by the big names from the original trilogy: Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Peter Mayhew, Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker. Boyega’s Finn has made a big splash wielding a lightsabor in the trailers and on the posters.
“Oh, that was fantastic. You know, it started off with sticks. And then I advanced to the ignited sabers, and I really enjoyed myself working with the sabers. The swinging, the aggression. And I was able to add my own little fighting style to that, my own ideas.”
He talks about using the mythical weapon and battling Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren.
“It feels good, it feels good. One thing is when they get the timing right. As soon as they put it in your hand, you raise it up, they turn it on, and it just works out smooth? It feels like you’re actually within the scene, and you’re actually about to kick ass, and there’s no pretending necessary.
And you know, going up against Adam Driver; good lord. You gotta keep that blade up. Keep it up! [Laughs] Bob and weave, bob and weave! Adam Driver’s reach is like — he can be in New York, and he’ll slap you with the saber. You’re in LA, and you’ll be like [ducks] ‘What the hell was that?'”
Check out the full interview HERE