A latest report suggests that the makers of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' have cast three martial arts actors who earlier featured in a hit foreign film titled 'The Raid'.

Latin Post says that although the producers have cast Yayan Ruhian, Iko Uwais, and Cecep Arif Rehman, who featured in films 'The Raid' and its sequel 'The Raid 2' for 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens', which is slated for release later this year, the actors themselves have not confirmed the news.

When the Tribune asked Iko regarding his work in the upcoming movie, the martial arts actor replied, "No comment from me, it's not within my ability to announce it." In fact, even Yayan did not respond to answer phone calls, while Iko's manager evaded queries saying that the actor was on a break.

However, Latin Post says that the new casting is not surprising, considering the fact that earlier Ray Park portrayed the character of the iconic Darth Maul. These days, martial arts fight choreography has virtually become something normal for some franchises and probably Uwais, Ruhian, and Rahman will be "doing lightsaber work."

In fact, the previous 'Star War' movies involved more intricate work in the lightsaber fights that required several stunts. From what one sees in the first trailer of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens', it can be assumed the upcoming movie will also pack plenty of action sequences and the lightsaber will be put into service in the film.

Considering the fact that Asian actors were few and far between in the 'Star War' movies, the casting of these three martial arts actors is definitely something new for the franchise. An earlier report said that George Lucas had once thought of casting the legendary actor Toshiro Mifune for both the roles of Obi-wan Kenobi as well as Darth Vader. In addition, there were speculations that martial arts formed the inspiration for the original trilogy.

In fact, 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' is among the most anticipated film of the year and the film is expected to earn millions. While details regarding the plot have not been revealed, director J.J. Abrams has admitted that it was one of the major challenges of his career. Speaking at the National Board of Review Ceremony, Abrams said, "The cast and crew of 'The Force Awakens' were respectful and incredibly kind to each other during this shoot, which was a very challenging shoot."

'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' is scheduled for a December 18, 2015 release.

Watch the official teaser below.