Star Wars: The Force Awakens earns positive early reviews

After perhaps the biggest movie premiere in Hollywood history, the early reviews for The Force Awakens, director J.J. Abrams's continuation of the Star Wars saga, are positive.

Three theatres on Hollywood Boulevard, including the venue where the Oscars are held, hosted more than 5,000 guests for the event Monday night, with a long white tent erected to encompass the red carpet beforehand and the after-party that followed the screening.

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The primary Force Awakens cast was in attendance, including Star Wars newcomers Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, Lupita Nyong'o, Gwendolyn Christie and Max von Sydow.

They were joined by elder cast members Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford, the original central trio who, along with Star Wars creator George Lucas, earned standing ovations at the premiere.

Recognizing the countless fans around the globe who are anticipating the film's worldwide release later this week, the majority of those at the premierekept their reviewsspoilerfree.(There is an embargo in place for journalists who have seen the film: 12:01a.m.on Wednesday).

'My brain just melted'

"I loved it," actor-directorZachBrafftold The Associated Press immediately after the premiere.

"I thought J.J. did an amazing job. My favourite part was just seeing the camaraderie between the veteran and the new cast members."

"I'm a bit overwhelmed," actor-director JonFavreau, chatting with TV host ChrisHardwickat the after-party, was overheard as saying when asked for his reaction to the film, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Hardwickresponded: "I know, my brain just melted."

Meanwhile, actor Force Awakens actor John Boyega, who was watching the film for the first time with an audience, noted it was "very surreal."

For his part, Abrams told The Hollywood Reporterhe felt"more relief now that the movie is being seen. The worst part was the anticipation."

Social media raves

On social media, the film drew widespread praise and glee from the film critics and stars who attended the premiere.

'Warm and fuzzy'

"The look and the feel of the film is like the old trilogy. It felt like home," Mike Senna told Reuters.

"It felt warm and fuzzy. It was really good. J.J. and his crew did so well."

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Another longtime fan was equally thrilled.

"[The movie is] everything I've dreamed of. It is absolutely fantastic," Brandon Jackson told Reuters.

"I want to tell you everything but I can't because I can't do that but it was awesome. It was amazing, it was everything that we've been waiting for. You won't be disappointed."