If you were planning to don your best cosplay for the upcoming Joker movie, think again. Following growing concerns over potential violence, U.S. cinemas are banning masks, costumes and toy weapons at screenings of the film, which opens in theaters October 4th.
Security concerns were raised earlier this week when family members of victims of the 2012 mass shooting in Aurora, Colorado, signed a letter to Warner Bros. expressing concerns about the film and asking the studio to withdraw contributions from political candidates who oppose gun reform and take money from the NRA.
On Wednesday it was reported the U.S. Army distributed email warnings to soldiers, instructing them to remain aware of their surroundings and identify escape routes during screenings, with instructions to “run, hide, fight” in the event of a shooting. The warnings came in response to an FBI investigation that uncovered social media posts associated with extremists known as “incels.”
Landmark Theatres, the largest independent cinema chain in the U.S., says “no masks, painted faces or costumes will be permitted into our theatres.” Meanwhile, AMC Theatres, the nation’s largest movie chain, reminded customers of their policy, which permits costumes but prohibits masks.
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