Movie Costumes Banned In Wake Of Aurora Theater Shooting

Big movie openings typically bring out elaborate costumes. But AMC Theaters announced today that in the wake of the Aurora, Colorado shooting, which occurred during the premiere of The Dark Knight Rises and resulted in the deaths of at least a dozen people, the theater would start banning face-covering masks and offensive costumes.

AMC Theaters wrote in a Facebook message:

“AMC Theatres is deeply saddened by the Aurora tragedy. Movie going is part of our social fabric and this senseless act shakes us to our core. We’re reinforcing our security procedures with our theatre teams… At this time… We will not allow any guests into our theatres in costumes that make other guests feel uncomfortable and we will not permit face-covering masks or fake weapons inside our buildings. If guests wish to exchange or refund any tickets, we will honor our existing policy and do as our guests wish. We are taking necessary precautions to ensure our guests who wish to enjoy a movie this weekend can do so with as much peace of mind as possible in these circumstances.”

The Dark Knight Rises shooting did not occur at an AMC Theater.

Cinemark, the operator of the Aurora, Colorado theater where the shooting took place, did not announce any costume policy changes. Timothy Warner, President & CEO of Cinemark Holdings, Inc., said:

“Cinemark’s thoughts, prayers and focus are on the families, victims, our employees and the Aurora community… We’re also very, very grateful for the quick response of the police department and emergency response teams which undoubtedly saved a lot of lives by their quick response.”

Warner said that Cinemark was currently discussing future policy changes.

The LA Times reports that Regal Cinemas, the largest theater chain, said that moviegoers “should expect stricter controls over character attire and accessories at our theaters.” Regal did not name any specific rule changes regarding movie costumes.