Tosa turns out for premiere of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'

Sci-fi fans across North America filed into movie theaters last week in anticipation of the release of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."

Some purchased sodas and popcorn with high hopes while others were prepared to be disappointed.

Moviegoers in Wauwatosa were no different.

Most of those who planned to attend the sold-out Thursday night premiere of the film at the Rosebud Cinema, 6823 W. North Ave., arrived about an hour ahead of showtime.

Among them was Jihan Batuman, a resident of Milwaukee.

"I tried not to get my hopes up, but I'm pretty excited and I think it's going to be a good movie," he said.

A number of people filed into the Rosebud Cinema that night, hoping to snag a seat for the premiere showing, only to be turned away after learning the tickets were sold out.

Batuman said he "lucked out" when his friend's girl-friend could no longer attend the movie at the last minute.

"I got her ticket," Batuman said with a smile.

"I didn't think they would make more sequels after the trilogies, so it's pretty great that they tried again and it's also really cool that people are saying it's good and that we finally have a new chapter to the story," he said.

Lauren and Greg Sousek, also from Milwaukee, were divided on their excitement for the film.

"I've seen every movie since 1977 on opening night, so it's a tradition," Greg Sousek said.

Added Lauren Sousek: "And I'm here because I love him."

The duo wasn't decked out in themed costumes nor did they carry light sabers.

"Dressing up isn't my thing," Lauren Sousek said.

Greg Sousek said he had tried his best to stay off Facebook so he wouldn't encounter any spoilers.

"I want to be surprised," he said.

The film reportedly earned $248 million during opening weekend and $529 million worldwide.