The clown will be arriving soon!
Many people are eager to watch the film. Several media reports indicated that the film would break box office records this October with $75M – $85M, with some predicting as high as over $100 M.
The film has been receiving positive reviews from critics during the Venice Film Festival and even scored the Golden Lion award on the spot. Despite the acclaim, many concerns have been raised about the film as many interpret it as condoning violence, with some saying the film reflects America’s current climate that can inspire mass shooters.
The families and survivors of the Aurora Shooting (where audiences were shot to death while watching The Dark Knight Rises) in 2012, sent a letter to Warner Bros. expressing concern on the film. Rather than demanding to get the film banned, they want Warner Bros. to lobby for gun reform and end political donations of politicians who take money from the NRA.
As the screening day approaches, many theatre chains and authorities aren’t taking chances. Landmark Theatres and AMC Cinemas in the US have banned moviegoers and staff from wearing Joker masks, costume and face paints. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced that they will increase police visibility in theatres.
The US army has even sent precautions on its officers who were planning to see the film, with instructions directing them what do in case a shooting happened. The Texas Department of Public Safety has even issued a memo below.
Amidst all the drama, The Joker had a quiet premiere in Los Angeles TCL Chinese Theatre. Tight security was present throughout the place, with the press being disinvited and photographers only present. Todd Phillips, the director has said that people should spread the word about the film and appreciate its art.
We hope that everything goes smoothly during the premiere and nothing bad happens!
Do you think that this prohibition is necessary? Let us know in the comments!
Header Image Source: Movie Fanon | Digital Spy