BY JEREMIAH RIVERA
“Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” is traveling from hyper space to theaters next month, and cinemas are more concerned than ever. The worry of movie-goers attending screenings with replica light-sabers, and blasters brings about a panic to what types of dangers may arise. One franchise that is worried about potential dangers during Star Wars screenings is AMC.
AMC Theaters’ released an official statement on their website regarding movie goers. Their costume policy will not permit weapons or other simulated props because there is a possibility guests may feel uncomfortable or be detracted from the movie-going experience. Guests are welcome to dress in costumes, but masks will not be permitted under any circumstances.
“Well the light-sabers are weapons even if they are just toys,” says Star Wars fan, Michael Nedostup. “I know if people brought them to the theater it would be really distracting. People would definitely use their light-sabers during the movie, then arguments are going to start and its going to get really annoying.”
Nedostup also agrees with the no mask policy and brought up the shooting that occurred in a movie theater in Colorado during a screening of “The Dark Knight Rises” back in 2012.
On July 20th,2012 shooter, James Holmes purchased a ticket to a midnight screening of the Batman movie at the Century Aurora 16 Multiplex Theater in Aurora, Colorado. According to Pix11’s website, Holmes entered the theater and exited through a rear door near the screen.
He had then reemerged 18 minutes into the film and opened fire on the audience after throwing two cans of tear gas canisters. Police reports described Holme’s as “dressed from head-to-toe in protective gear.” Holme’s was found with an AR-15 rifle, a 12-gauge shotgun, and two 40-caliber handguns used at the scene.
Twelve people were killed and 70 were injured. Since then, movie theaters began to hire extra security and enforce new rules and regulations to prevent a similar tragedy.
“It’s very reasonable for movie theaters to implement these rules,” said York College student, Anthony Medina. “The Star Wars franchise is huge, so there’s going to be a lot of people watching the new movie. Medina also went on to say how he would feel uncomfortable sitting next to a person in a mask although it would add to the excitement of the movies release.
“Everyone is entitled to having a good time, but there has to be restrictions on these big events. I don’t want to hear about another mass shooting in a movie theater,” Medina said.
All movie goers are advised to leave all simulated weapons and suspicious attire at home in order to prevent another situation and to allow fans the opportunity to enjoy the movie.
