Hollywood ready for world premiere of "The Force Awakens"
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A half-mile section of Hollywood Boulevard has been closed to traffic and a giant opaque tent now lines four blocks of the famous thoroughfare. Fan bleachers are up and spotlights are everywhere.
Could the Academy Awards be coming early to Hollywood? No, bigger: On Monday evening, three theaters will roll out red carpets for the world premiere of the hugely anticipated "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
Many of Hollywod's top stars will join hundreds of costumed fans at what could be the largest Hollywood premiere ever. One of the participating theaters — the iconic TCL Chinese — hosted the premier of the original "Star Wars" in 1977.
Los Angeles Police say extra vehicle patrols and more officers on foot are being assigned to the area.
"The Force Awakens" opens Friday.