Story highlights A movie about Han Solo's life before "Star Wars" is slated to hit theaters in 2018

It will be directed by Christopher Miller and Phil Lord, the duo behind "The Lego Movie"

(CNN) With his roguish charm, the gallant scoundrel Han Solo has long been one of the favorite characters in the "Star Wars" universe.

Now fans will finally get to learn the smuggler-turned-hero's backstory.

Disney announced Tuesday that Christopher Miller and Phil Lord, the duo behind "The Lego Movie," will direct a feature about Han Solo's life before "Star Wars," slated to hit theaters in 2018.

The as-yet untitled movie will be written by Lawrence Kasdan and his son, Jon Kasdan. That screenwriting duo will probably satisfy the legions of devout "Star Wars" fans -- the elder Kasdan co-wrote "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," in addition to J.J. Abrams' upcoming "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," due in December.

No casting was announced, although social media speculation immediately centered on Chris Pratt, the ascendant star of "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Jurassic World."

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