While the release date of Joker is approaching, concerns about public security are constantly rising. Indeed, the character has already inspired acts of violence, like the 2012 mass shooting during a Batman film in Colorado, where 12 were killed and 70 wounded.
Families of people involved in the tragedy have recently sent a letter to Warner Bros about the potential for new violence during the screenings of the new movie. The character of Joker, depicting mental breakdown and social isolation, has been considered dangerous, and families have called for more precaution and security.
Major cinema chains in the US, among which the Los Angeles-based Landmark Theaters chain, have replied to these concerns by banning costumes and masks for moviegoers during screenings. Kansas-based AMC Theatres explained that “guests are welcome to come dressed in costume” but “masks, face paint or any object that conceals the face” won’t be permitted.
The US Army and the Los Angeles Police Department will be on alert and, as the LAPD said, “While there are no credible threats in the Los Angeles area, the Department will maintain high visibility around movie theaters when it opens”.
Despite the great caution, it is clear that these measures could be uneffective, since similar measures had also been taken during the 2012 screenings. Regulating the US weapons market seems today, the only effective solution.
#Peace.Love.Joker
