Fans have been given a first look into the new Han Solo spin-off movie.

The cast of the Han Solo spin-off movie

The cast of the Han Solo spin-off movie

Bosses have released the first picture of the cast together to coincide with principal photography officially starting at Pinewood Studios, London on February 20.

In the photograph, Alden Ehrenreich - who plays Han Solo - is seen sitting alongside his co-stars including Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke and Donald Glover.

Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller said: "Watching such inspired people from all over the world, with such unique voices, come together for the sole purpose of making art, is nothing short of miraculous. We can't think of anything funny to say, because we just feel really moved, and really lucky."

The movie - which also stars Thandie Newton and Phoebe Waller-Bridge - will follow Han Solo and his sidekick Chewbacca as they encounter Lando Calrissian (Donald Glover) ahead of the events of 'Star Wars: A New Hope'.

Meanwhile, Woody Harrelson previously teased he would be playing a "bit of a criminal" in the upcoming movie.

He said: "I'm a mentor to Han. I'm also a bit of a criminal. I don't think I should say more than that because the Force is not allowing me."

And movie bosses are thrilled to have Harrelson signed up to the film.

Of Woody's casting, directors Lord and Miller said: "We couldn't be more excited to work with an artist with as much depth and range as Woody.

"His ability to find both humour and pathos, often in the same role, is truly unique. He is also very good at ping pong."

it comes after LucasFilm chief Kathleen Kennedy - who is also a producer for the film - teased the movie will have a "Western-type feel".

She shared: "This moves closer to a heist or Western-type feel. We've talked about [Western-era artist Frederic] Remington and those primary colours that are used in his paintings defining the look and feel of the film."

The Han Solo spin-off movie - which is as yet untitled - is slated for release in 2018.