WATCH: Latest instalment of Star Wars looks set to be just the ticket for fans

The first people to see the new Star Wars movie are leaving the screening with good news for loyal fans of the franchise.

It is one of the most highly-anticipated films of the year and fans have remained cautiously optimistic about Episode VII — The Force Awakens after being left disappointed by the string of prequels.

While reviews are embargoed until 8.01am today, some audience members in the premiere in Los Angeles were unable to resist sharing their thoughts on Twitter.

Adam B Vary, a reporter for Buzzfeed, tweeted: “Rest easy: The Force Awakens is 100% Star Wars, and something new. Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac: welcome.”

The Hollywood Reporter executive editor Matthew Belloni wrote: “Star Wars premiere just letting out now. A LOT of smiling faces.”

Documentary director Brett Morgen, best known for Montage of Heck, about the Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, wrote: “Force Awakens might be the best blockbuster since the original.” He added: “Force Awakens delivers on every level.

Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker actor Mark Hamill has defended a decision not to sign autographs, saying he is tired of seeing them for sale on eBay “within hours”.

The 64-year-old, who reprises his rebel hero role in the film, gave the response to a fan who questioned him on Twitter following the premiere.

Writing on his @hamillhimself account, the actor said: “If I could know it’s a fan (not a dealer), I’d sign all night. Tired of seeing what I sign on ebay [sic] within hours.”

Autographed pictures of the star — who played a central role in the original trilogy of films from 1977 to 1983, are available on eBay for prices running into hundreds of euros.

In reply to another tweet from someone suggesting he personalise autographs, Hamill said: “Dealers remove personalised names w/ nail polish remover. LOVE the real fans dealers who gouge fans... not so much!”

Episode VII — The Force Awakens opens in cinemas from midnight tonight.