The first poster for Star Wars: The Force Awakens has been revealed to the public - and it's fair to say that it does not disappoint.

In fact the promo art for JJ Abrams' eagerly awaited update to the famous sci-fi franchise teases fans with a couple of new hints at what the movie might contain.

Daisy Ridley's Rey is very much the centrepiece of the artwork - created by veteran Star Wars illustrator Drew Struzan - so does that mean that she'll be the real star of the movie's ensemble cast?

John Boyega's Finn stands to her side, unexpectedly clutching a lightsaber and Harrison Ford's Han Solo brandishing a blaster pistol - wearing a dark jacket rather than his trademark waistcoat.

Behind them looms villain Kylo Ren, holding that red lightsaber with little side beams that we all saw in the trailer.

Speaking at Disney's D23 event in California, Boyega said that at the start of the film "we find Finn in incredible danger".

And he added: "The way he reacts changes his life and launches him into the Star Wars universe in a very unique way."

In other Star Wars news, it has been announced that Colin Trevorrow will direct Star Wars Episode Nine.

Lucasfilm chief Kathleeen Kennedy said: "Colin is someone I've been interested in working with ever since I saw Safety Not Guaranteed.

"The power of that film paired with the enormous success of Jurassic World speaks volumes about his abilities both as a storyteller and skilled filmmaker.

"We are thrilled to have such an incredible talent as Colin join our family and step into the Star Wars universe."

And Trevorrow commented: "This is not a job or an assignment. It is a seat at a campfire, surrounded by an extraordinary group of storytellers, filmmakers, artists and craftspeople.

"We've been charged with telling new stories for a younger generation because they deserve what we all had - a mythology to call their own.

"We will do this by channeling something George Lucas instilled in all of us: boundless creativity, pure invention and hope."

The movie is currently planned for release in 2019.