Andy Serkis has opened up about his "exciting role" in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Digital Spy reports.

The Lord of the Rings actor said that it is a "dream to be part of an incredible franchise" like Star Wars.

Speaking to PA, he said that he had a "great time" filming the seventh instalment of the sci-fi film series, alongside the likes of Harrison Ford, Adam Driver and Oscar Isaac.

On working with JJ Abrams, he added: "He's such a delightful human being. When we first met, I thought, 'This is just terrific'.

"He's a brilliant director. He's so passionate about the subject matter and he's been wanting to bank this movie, or be involved in this franchise, for years.

"It's what inspired him to be a filmmaker, so to be on set with someone who has that amount of passion is deeply exciting.

"JJ's gone very much for a look that emulates the original series of films, for sure."

He also described Abrams's studio as "a vibrant, creative environment".

Star Wars: The Force Awakens will unveil its new trailer at the Star Wars Celebration fan event between April 16 and 19. It will then play before Avengers: Age of Ultron in cinemas.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be released on December 18.