Making the most out of the major coup of having the science fiction favorite “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” filmed on Skellig Michael, County Kerry, Tourism Ireland, has release the third in their series of behind-the-scenes short films.

The tourism marketing board commissioned Lucasfilm to create this short film (and its first film, unveiled in January), in which "Star Wars" actors, the director JJ Abrams and other crew members discuss why they chose this special location for filming.

Stunned by the remote County Kerry islands, which feature in the last scene of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” Mark Hamill, who plays Luke Skywalker, said “It’s just indescribably beautiful.”

Daisy Ridley, the actress who plays Rey, said, “It was unbelievable” and the movie's director JJ Abrams said, “It’s sort of a miracle this place…we could not be more honored to be here.”

The fact that the next episode, “Star Wars: Episode VIII,” is also being shot on location along the Wild Atlantic Way, is another fantastic coup for Irish tourism. Candice Campos, Vice President, Physical Production, said “Ireland has become an important part of 'Star Wars' history.”

Red more: Beautiful new photos of Skellig Island show why 'Star Wars' chose it

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe TD, said ““Star Wars: The Force Awakens” was one of the most eagerly anticipated films for years. To have our phenomenal landscape feature so prominently in it filled Irish hearts with pride and gave the rest of the world a taste of what we have to offer. Phase three of Tourism Ireland’s special 'Star Wars' campaign builds on that and will further encourage people to visit us in greater numbers and continue the success we have seen in the tourism sector in recent years. It will also, crucially, reward fans with new behind-the-scenes footage, which, I have no doubt, will be the source of much enjoyment for many.”

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said “Since its release, 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' film has been breaking box office records everywhere and Tourism Ireland has been capitalizing on this positive exposure, highlighting the 'Star Wars' connection with Ireland and bringing the magnificent scenery of Skellig Michael and the Wild Atlantic Way to the attention of millions of people everywhere.”

Tourism Ireland will share this latest film in 14 different markets – including Britain, the United States, Canada, Germany France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, the Nordic region, Australia, New Zealand, India, the GCC and South Africa. It will be shared via social media – including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube – targeting Tourism Ireland’s digital audience of 600+ million around the world.



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