The new force gathered with the old Monday when "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" made its world premiere in Hollywood.

"The Force Awakens" is the seventh film in the "Star Wars" series. The original premiered in 1977 and made movies stars of three actors. Carrie Fisher played Princess Leia, Mark Hamill was Luke Skywalker and Harrison Ford played Han Solo.

The trio returned to reprise their roles in one of the most secretive movie openings of all time. It was long-awaited.

Storm troopers march in at the world premiere of the film "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" in Hollywood, California.

"There's a lot of admirable characteristics to the opportunity [of being in this picture]," Ford said. "People have been anticipating this film for a long time."

John Boyega plays Finn, a new character. He expressed respect for the work of his older co-stars at the premiere.

"I am a Star Wars fan, so I feel like we're paying homage to a film that I really respect," Boyega said.

The red carpet event included the stars, but the movie's Stormtroopers and droids also made appearances. Celebrities attending the opening included Spike Lee, Steven Spielberg and Sofia Vergara.

Monday's preview is a sneak peak of the excitement which will take place at theaters in North America next week. "The Force Awakens" officially opens December 18.

I'm Caty Weaver.

Chris Hannas wrote this story for VOANews.com. Jim Dresbach adapted it for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor.

Which holiday film are you most looking forward to see? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or visit 51VOA.COM.

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Words in This Story

premiere – n. the first time a film, play, television show, etc., is shown or performed

reprise – v. something that is repeated

red carpet – n. to formally greet or welcome an important guest who has just arrived

droid – n. a robot

characteristic(s) - n. a quality belonging to a person, place or thing

opportunity - n. a series of events that make it possible to do something