"Star Wars: The Force Awakens" has not even opened in cinemas worldwide and it's already being recognized, as proven by the American Film Institute (AFI) when it announced on Dec. 16 that the latest episode in the saga created by George Lucas and directed by J.J. Abrams is being honored.

All honorees will be awarded during a private luncheon on Jan. 8, 2016 in Los Angeles, and AFI stresses that it will have a noncompetitive atmosphere. The jury will explain the rationale behind the AFI's choices on the awarding day, that is, of the artistic and cultural contribution of the honorees to the American entertainment industry.

"AFI AWARDS celebrate the year's most outstanding achievements in the art of the moving image — with 10 films and 10 television programs deemed culturally and artistically significant," the AFI website explains.

Aside from "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," which is the sole reason the AFI decided to push back announcing its honorees in spite of usually making the announcement on the first week of December, the following films are also being honored: "The Big Short," "Bridge of Spies," "Carol," "Inside Out," "Mad Max: Fury Road," "The Martian," "Room," "Spotlight" and "Straight Outta Compton."

AFI Awards was founded by President Lyndon Johnson in the White House Rose Garden in 1967 and its mandate emphasizes that not only will the organization honor the nation's storytellers but should also bring everyone together in a noncompetitive environment.

"Honorees are selected based on works that advance the art of the moving image, enhance the rich cultural heritage of America's art form, inspire audiences and artists alike and make a mark on American society," the AFI press release said.

It must be noted that AFI selections do not necessarily reflect The Academy's selections, so even the films that were not honored by AFI could still win that Oscar, especially since The Academy is attempting to diversify its selection of nominees.

There's one thing for sure, though: If the AFI waited for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and loved it, we don't need any spoilers to know that it's one heck of an awesome film.