'Star Wars Episode VIII' Could be Delayed Longer Than Previously Thought: Here's Why

Recent announcements confirmed that Star Wars: Episode VIII's release date has been pushed from May 2017 to December 2017. However, new reports seem to suggest a further delay for the film could happen due to a potential lighting technician's revolt. (Yes, you read that right.)

The technicians in question are reportedly furious after failing to receive pay raises over the course of four years. Those same technicians are threatening to quit. If this happens, it would delay nine films that are currently being produced in the U.K.

According to The Independent, talks between lighting technician's union, Bectu, and the employers' body Pact, met with the producers of the nine films in order to keep a revolt from happening. The producers offered pay increases between five and eight and-a-half percent.

The technician's union will take the numbers to a vote, which will conclude at the end of the day Friday. Should they reject the deal, production for major films such as Star Wars, Wonder Woman, The Foreigner and The Mummy will stop until an agreement can be reached.

If the technician's approve the new numbers, all will continue as normal. Star Wars just recently started production, as is evident by an Instagram post by star Daisy Ridley, who plays newcomer Rey. The picture features a lovely bouquet of flowers with the hashtag #VIII, presumably a reference to the film. In the picture, words on a paper below the flowers can barely be seen, but appear to read, "As we begin the production[?]...appreciation for your..." "VIII" is clearly visible on the top of the page.

Check out the photo below and see for yourself:

 #VIII

A photo posted by @daisyridley on Jan 28, 2016 at 2:33am PST

Star John Boyega also confirmed production, telling fans around Christmas that "we are so happy to be starting on Episode Eight in a few weeks in London and it is going to be fun."

Assuming no more delays occur, Star Wars: Episode VIII will arrive in theaters Dec. 15, 2017, almost two years to the day that Star Wars: The Force Awakens was released.