First Look At 'Star Wars Episode VII' Abu Dhabi Set And Alien Creature

As the Star Wars: Episode VII cast continues to come together, J.J. Abrams is looking to pull one diehard fan onscreen to join them. The director has issued a special video message announcing a contest with a walk-on role as the big prize.

The fact that the campaign also benefits UNICEF is just the icing on the cake. Hit the jump to watch the video — which also happens to be our first look at the Abu Dhabi set — and find out how you can enter the Star Wars: Episode VII contest.

Update from /Film editor Peter Sciretta: Scott Beggs makes a comparison of the new alien shown in this video and the junk lady from Labyrinth:

The deadline to enter is July 18 at 11:59 PM. Each $10 contribution gets you a chance to win:

  • Airfare and accommodations to London for one winner and a guest
  • Behind-the-scenes access on the closed set of Star Wars: Episode VII as VIP guests of J.J. Abrams
  • Winner will have the opportunity to meet members of the cast
  • Winner and their guest will then be transformed by makeup and costume teams into a Star Wars character and filmed for a scene in Star Wars: Episode VII
  • Chip in a bit more, and you'll be eligible for Kickstarter-style prizes ranging from a special thank-you card from Abrams ($40) to a private advance screening of the movie ($50,000).

    Star Wars: Force for Change will help support UNICEF's Innovation Labs, which tries to find creative solutions to problems ailing children around the globe. So the best-case scenario is that you get to be in Star Wars, and the worst-case scenario is that you've helped a kid in need. Either way, it's a win.

    Head to Omaze.com/StarWars to enter or get more information.