'Star Wars: Rogue One' Darth Vader to Play Central Role in Anthology?: Fan Theories

"Star Wars" fever is far from over, despite "Star Wars Episode 8" being set for release in 2017. A recent possible development in the highly anticipated anthology, "Star Wars: Rogue One," teases that a certain iconic villain will be given a pivotal role in the movie.

According to Comicbook.com, "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" will feature Darth Vader who will reportedly play a crucial role in the movie. The website did not specify as to exactly what Vader's role in the movie will be as details are sketchy for now. The timeline takes audiences back before the events of "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope."

As for the plot of the upcoming film, Cinema Blend teases that it will most likely involve the theft of the original Death Star, which "Star Wars" fans will remember as the one that Luke Skywalker destroys towards the end of "A New Hope."

Cinema Blend teases that given the specific timeline of the "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," Darth Vader will play a central figure. Vader will most likely become a tyrannical figure in the film as he will help in the Empire's expansion.

The Darth Vader in this film will no longer be the Anakin Skywalker seen in "Revenge of the Sith." He will embody the characteristics that have shaped him to become the feared Sith Lord that he was in "A New Hope." He will most likely begin to cement his role in the Empire now that he has embraced the dark side of the Force. 

Vader has always been viewed as arguably the most iconic villain to ever appear on screen. The grim general will also be key in establishing the feared Galactic Empire. It is not known as to whether or not Hayden Christensen will be returning to reprise his role as Darth Vader.

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" also features a new Tie Fighter design. There will also be a new droid making its debut in the film, who will serve the rebel alliance. The droid will stand on two legs and will be dark in color and will not resemble C-3P0 in any way. Remember that these are all fan theories, so take everything with a grain of salt.

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" hits theaters on Dec. 16, 2016.