Sadly, the main discussion surrounding the upcoming comic book film “Joker” is less to do with Joaquin Phoenix’s incredible performance and the film’s potential Oscar run, but instead focused on the movie potentially inspiring folks to commit violent acts, such as the ones seen in the film.
The discussion kicked into high gear this week after an open letter was sent to WB from people associated with victims of the Aurora killings in 2012 and emails sent out from the US military warning soldiers to be on alert during screenings. Now, some of the biggest theater chains in North America are commenting on the situation, assuring moviegoers that specific protocols are in place to ensure everyone’s safety.
As reported by The Wrap, Regal Cinemas has released a statement that not only confirms that the theater is going to take every measure necessary to make sure everyone is safe but also explains that the chain doesn’t subscribe to the theory that a film can ultimately cause violence.
“At Regal, we do not believe the content or the existence of any movie is a cause or a signal for violence,” the spokesperson said. “Nevertheless, although we do not comment on security protocols implemented by our theatres at any time, patron and employee safety is our foremost concern. In collaboration with NATO, we are in regular contact year-round with law enforcement so we have information to help make whatever security assessments they deem appropriate at all times.”
READ MORE: The U.S. Military Is Concerned About Potentially Violent “Incels” At ‘Joker’ Screenings
Even though AMC and Landmark also commented on the situation, they stressed the security surrounding the situation without mentioning the content of the film or concerns they may or may not have.
“The safety of our guests and associates is AMC’s top priority,” AMC said. “Working with law enforcement, AMC has a number of safety and security protocols in place at all of its theatres. To help ensure that safety, we do not discuss specifics.”
As for Landmark, they’re also taking safety seriously, including a ban on costumes.
Landmark CEO Ted Mundorff said, “We don’t comment on anything to do with operating procedures, but we are not allowing costumes, face painting or masks by either our employees or guests.”
As mentioned, the issue of safety for the upcoming release of “Joker” has been a hot-button issue this week, beginning with the families of the victims of the 2012 Aurora theater killings voicing concerns about the film’s plot. This was exacerbated by internal memos and emails that were leaked from the US military about potential violence at screenings of “Joker.” Of course, WB and the filmmaker, Todd Phillips, have openly defended the film and pushed against people rushing to judgment about the content of the film.
“Joker” is expected to hit theaters on October 4.
