Oct. 20, 2015 / 9:48 AM

'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' releases epic new trailer

The trailer was viewed more than 8.6 million times in 12 hours.

John Boyega at the Costume Institute Benefit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 4, 2015. The actor stars in a new 'Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens' trailer. File photo by John Angelillo/UPI

1 of 6 | John Boyega at the Costume Institute Benefit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 4, 2015. The actor stars in a new 'Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens' trailer. File photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens released a highly-anticipated new trailer Monday.

The preview teases backstories and motivations for several characters, including the scavenger Rey (Daisy Ridley), the stormtrooper Finn (John Boyega) and the villain Kylo Ren (Adam Driver).

Original stars Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher are also seen as Han Solo and Princess Leia, respectively. Noticeably missing are Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker and newcomers Lupita Nyong'o and Domhnall Gleeson as the pirate Maz and General Hux.

Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens released an official theatrical poster Sunday, and tickets went on sale the following day. The movie is directed by Star Trek reboot helmer J.J. Abrams, and opens in theaters Dec. 18.

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