Star Wars: Episode VIII Dubrovnik Filming: Dates Announced, Tent Photos Released, and Benicio Del Toro Rumors

Just a few days ago, we reported about drones guarding the official setof Star Wars: Episode VIII, a.k.a. Space Bear's filming in Dubrovnik. Now, official information has arrived in regard to the movie's filming dates as well as pre-production photos.

As per Dubrovnik Tourist Board's official site, via Making Star Wars, Star Wars: Episode VIII will be shot at certain days in March.

The tourist board stated:

Dear visitors,

Dubrovnik will soon again be the host of the big american production "Space Bear," which confirms our city as an attractive filming location.

For a couple of days in March traffic in the Old Town will be specially regulated. We believe this situation will not cause problems to you, and that you will have a pleasant time in Dubrovnik.

Preparations of the sets will happen on the 9th and 10th of March from 6pm to 12am, and preparation for filming and filming itself will happen on 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th of March, specifically 4am to 4pm for the filming preparations, and 4pm to 4am of the next day for the filming itself.

Thanks for understanding and we wish you a pleasant stay in Dubrovnik.

Another news has come in via jutarnji.hr. According to the Croatian website, there are now special traffic regulations due to Episode VIII filming, which involves closing of a shop in Stradun. The site believes the appearance of actor Benicio del Toro (Guardians of the Galaxy, Traffic). The 49-year-old actor has been offered the role of a villain in Episode VIII. Now there's a frenzy about him appearing on set in Dubrovnik.

Photos of the setup have been released via 20minuta.hr and dubrovniknet.hr as well. Check them out:

Here's another photo from 24 Sata:

Croatian site vijesti.rtl.hr has also reported that tents have been set up at the Stradun, Banja Beach and Rector's Palace over the last few days and that del Toro will be there as well.

A photo from the site is below:

Dubrovnik residents are over the moon with the StarWars: Episode VIII filming in the city which could account for the del Toro rumors. Filming hasn't started yet, but rumors are already flying that even if he isn't shooting in the city, he could come to Dubrovnnik to experience the culture. There isn't any supporting evidence, so it remains to be seen whether the actor will be there.

Meanwhile, there have been other rumors about Carrie Fisher being near the location. Her Twitter feed however says otherwise.

I agree with MSW and it's also my guess that the Croatian location would appear to be for the filming of Ahch-To or that of a new planet. It's always exciting to find any news about Star Wars and we'll keep you updated once more comes in.

Star Wars: Episode VIII is slated for release on December 15, 2017.