4:30am - some thoughts:
Yes, predictable and not exactly original - but basically it's Star Wars' ST09 but better and this time in the existing story - introducing the universe to today's generation and passing the torch as it were. So damn enjoyable to watch.
Standouts: Ridley, Driver, BB8 (!!!!!!). Too little Isaac and Christie. Honorable mention to Gleeson's and Serkis', especially the former's, epic scenery chewing.
Crowd reactions: apart from small claps at BBFC card before the film started....nothing. some gasps at Rey using Force for the first time.
IMAX Laser 3D was incredible - best 3D I've seen. I completely understand why JJ prefers this to IMAX 70mm 2D. Combo of laser fixing usual brightness/colour/ghosting issues, great 3D in the film itself and bigger screen (generally 3D is much less distracting and more immersive in IMAX). The one native IMAX scene was awesome and tbh I'm not too fussed over aspect ratio at this theatre not being the full 1.44:1as you still get the same effect due to the sheer size of the thing.
Trailers: ST Beyond and Creed and In the Heart of the Sea in regular 2D, Deadpool green band in IMAX 2D. Shame STB was only new trailer but, and I know this is nitpicky, incredibly disappointed over lack of BvS as 1. I know for a fact WB sent it to theatres and 2. native IMAX footage in expanded aspect ratio. The only other trailer in recent memory that had that was that Interstellar IMAX trailer. Would've been amazing to see it. Gonna try sorting something out in the morning.....
Some other spoilery things:
basically - Luke = Sequel Trilogy's Yoda, Snoke is obviously ST's Emperor and....not expecting the original cast or droids to show up again in Eps 8 and 9 apart from Hamill and maaaaaaybe Fisher?
Anyway 9/10, bravo JJ. More thoughts tomorrow.