Millions of Star Wars fans had their first taster of the new film as trailers were unveiled online, a year ahead of the next instalment of the sci-fi saga.
Fans of the films will be reassured to see familiar favourites such as Han Solo's spaceship the Millennium Falcon, X-Wing Fighters and even a lightsaber - this time with side-blades.
In the first trailer for Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, the camera pans across a desert landscape as a voiceover declares: "There has been an awakening - have you felt it?"
Then actor John Boyega - a Star Wars newcomer - is seen dressed as a Stormtrooper, breathless and panicked.
The voiceover later refers to "the dark side - and the light" of The Force.
It also contains scenes of the Millennium Falcon in a battle with TIE Fighters and a battalion of Stormtroopers being armed, while a hooded and cloaked figure is seen with the lightsaber.
It concludes with the traditional Star Wars theme composed by John Williams.
In another trailer which emerged online, the voiceover says: "The Emperor has foreseen a new threat rising against him - the children of The Force.
"They must not become Jedi. This is my master's command."
Another voice responds: "And so it will be done."
It also features Han Solo - played by Harrison Ford.
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