It may be in a galaxy far, far away, but the force was strong with fans in White Marsh.
The wait is finally over. Star Wars: The Force Awakens was released Thursday. Fans have been eagerly anticipating the latest installment of the saga.
"When the tickets went on sale we knew we had to get the first time, definitely," Steven Zawodny of Bel Air said.
See also: Gallery of Star Wars VII Premier
Many people in attendance are long time fans of the George Lucas series.
"I grew up watching Star Wars," Connor Harrington said. "I still have all my figures, don't tell anyone."
The biggest concern for most die hard fans was avoiding spoilers on social media and in the news.
"I've been trying to avoid spoilers since the Europeans have seen it already," Stephanie Smith said.
Everyone has a favorite character, or at least can pick one to dress as for the movie premier.
"I'm a huge chewbacca fan and I love Star Wars," Jaclyn Eddy of Essex said.
Related: Theaters issue rules for Star Wars costumes
Hundreds bought tickets and filled the theaters. The AMC in White Marsh seats 445 people. Thousands of tickets were sold and hopefully there were several happy customers.
"I think that this movie is going to be huge," Zawodny said. "I'm hoping that it smashes the box office records.
There are lines all over the @AMCTheatres in Whitemarsh! Fans are out in force for the #StarWars premier @ABC2NEWS pic.twitter.com/SBZ5DHkmPY
— Catherine Hawley (@CatherineABC2) December 18, 2015
