Star Wars 9: Big CHANGE as filming continues – Oscar Isaac admits 'it's a relief'

JJ Abrams is helming the ninth episode of the main saga in the Star Wars franchise; and the third and final chapter of the sequel trilogy.

He had previously taken charge of the 2015 hit The Force Awakens, before Rian Johnson took the baton for Episode 8: The Last Jedi.

Isaac, who plays Poe Dameron, has revealed that Abrams has introduced a much “looser” atmosphere on set this time around.

This means that the cast have been able to improvise content for the first time.

“The way they’ve been shooting it right now is looser than it’s been for the past two times,” he told IndieWire.

“It does feel like a relief to get on set and feel like, ‘Oh, we can try things.’

“It’s a testament to J.J. coming back and feeling confident. There’s less pressure for it to be right.

“We just want to make a good movie and have a really good time while doing it.”

He added: “Often, you do feel like you’ve got to find your way to make something more alive, but this time, it’s been the opposite.

“There’s no need to smuggle anything in there.”

If proceedings are much less rigid during production this time around, that could explain the extended filming dates.

Last week it was alleged that one particular set in Pinewood will be needed for two months longer than planned, while Adam Driver had to postpone a talk at Cambridge University due to major schedule alterations.

Filming has sparked a flurry of alleged leaks and rumours, but of course nothing will be fully official until fans get a glimpse of a trailer, not expected until at least a few months into 2019.

The title of the final chapter of the story is also yet to be announced.

In addition to confirmed returning stars such as Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill, John Boyega and Kelly Marie Tran will be newcomers such as Naomi Acke, Richard E Grand, Keri Russell and Dominic Monaghan.

Star Wars 9 is out in late 2019.