Anchorhead said:

To put it more clearly with regard to how I feel about her physical beauty; why CGI over her at all? Why can't she bring gravitas to the character (which is a given), as well as be seen? Why an alien? Why not a human as a close friend or pivotal character?

It's a Star Wars movie where there are aliens... so why not have an alien as a close friend or pivotal character? So far the only (good) character that's been either of those was Chewie, so it's great they're attempting to branch it out more. Sure they could've had anyone for the part (A-list actress or not, beautiful or not, etc.), but since JJ felt Lupita was perfect for the part and she obviously wanted the part, that's how it is - simple as that :)