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Monday, September 30, 2019
At Least One Theater Chain Is Increasing Security for Joker Screenings
io9.gizmodo.com: We’re drawing nearer to Joker’s theatrical release, and as we do we’re seeing more theaters across the country respond to the possibility, credible or otherwise, of the film being a possible flashpoint for incel violence.
I am so excited to watch this new version of Joker. However, I think that this article is tackling something really important to consider. Media has a very large influence on people. A movie like Joker could be a flash point for incel violence, like this article acknowledges. It’s good to see that theatres are recognizing that content can insight violence. Certain theatres have engaged with local law enforcement to double check security for their theatres. I think that preventative measures taken can always be good - even if it’s just to reassure others of their safety. I also think that theatres are smart for allowing cosplay but still identifying they have the right to search any subject at the discretion of theatre staff. Some places have banned cosplaying entirely. While I am excited for this film - I do consider that providing more empathy to a character that has been viewed as a villain for his entire career presents controversy. In addition, it sorta feels like another film about another white cis male who is struggling.
I’m glad to hear that the security is getting beefed up for the premiere of this movie, but it also disappoints me a little bit in the respect of our society, because while most people may go to see the film as a piece of good cinema, or a fun night at the movies, others will use the social commentary as an excuse to enact acts of violence as seen in the movie. I think this presents a sort of dark realism to the universe of the movie itself, demonstrating things are just as dangerous in the real world (with regular people randomly committing atrocious crimes) as in a fictional universe with a singular manically-crafted super villain. It’s disappointing to reflect upon, and I wish I knew how to change this kind of attitude and environment in society, but I admittedly have no clue. It takes the power of a village to raise the decency of its society, but it’s hard to make change when the village divides into so many different categories. Rant aside, I am excited for this movie. I am not excited, however, for the controversy it seems to be causing. Todd Philips said it himself: “We didn’t make this movie to push buttons...I think it’s because outrage is a commodity, I think it’s something that has been a commodity for a while.”
I am thankful entities are more aware of the incel threat, and are taking actions to make spaces safer. I just can’t understand how we got to this point. I never had to worry about mass shootings at home. As long as you stayed away from trouble, trouble would stay away from you. But here in America it seems like you could get shot anywhere and for no reason other than being at the wrong place at the wrong time. It’s upsetting to think how there are corporate interests over the safety of the people. How we have a political system that could fix this issue but it doesn’t because NRA is a huge donor for political campaigns. But most importantly, I bugs me to believe that there are people out there believing that their right to own a gun is more important than the right of someone else to be safe.
I am so glad to hear that various theatres are taking appropriate measures to protect their patrons. While it is disappointing to me that we must take such precautions to ensure the safety of people in our current climate. While most people (hopefully) will go to see the movie with the intent of enjoying a night out at the movies, others may use scenes depicted in the movie to justify potential acts of violence. I think that, because this movie is- if not glorifying him - making the Joker more empathetically available. Psychopathy is a disorder that is often addressed - especially in the film industry - in a sort of romanticised context. This unhealthy view of mental illness serves to perpetuate the ambiguity of stereotypes surrounding psychopaths and adds to confusion. The director, Todd Phillips, said that he “didn’t make [the] movie to push buttons” but, regardless, buttons will be pushed when confronting such a controversial topic.
It isn’t often that security and movie theatres are often thought about, but it remains an increasing concern. It wasn’t all that long ago that multiple shootings have occurred at movie theatres. However, I still don’t think of security and movies. When I think about cosplay or live events, I think of security check points, metal detectors, searching before entrance, etc. But when it comes to the movie theatre, I think of sitting, popcorn, and someone taking my ticket. The Joker combines these two realities, or so it appears. Cosplaying is becoming increasingly popular and it doesn’t surprise me that people want to cosplay in the movie screenings. But this brings on challenges. These challenges appear to be, being addressed by movie theatres. It is all too common and easy that something wrong could happen and so it makes sense that there is concern about this. It leads me to wonder if this is the new reality or if something will be done about it because we keep bolstering up security and trying to prevent tragedies but that’s it.
This is a very complex issue that has many different facets. It is one that I wasn’t very aware of until very recently. It is difficult that a cautionary tale may inspire those who are of a similar state of mind as the main character of the Joker film to commit heinous acts of violence. It is also difficult that the film has faced some backlash for this apparent inspiration. Films cover many different and difficult topics, this film is not the first of its kind. It is interesting and unfortunate situation that the climate today is one where films about dark and relevant material reach people in ways that may make them act out. The increased security presence at these theaters, however, is better safe than sorry. It is important to recognize that these are issues that could very well manifest into actual action and it is important to keep people safe.
I understand why theaters are increasing security for this movie, especially since there has already been an attack at Batman franchise movie. It’s unfortunate that we live in a time where a movie about a fictional clown could potentially cause violence. That being said articles like this will hopefully reduce the risk of any threat as people will know about the increased security. I understand that people are worried about the idea of presenting the Joker through an empathetic lens, but I don’t think the idea is inherently wrong. Though the timing may not be perfect, understanding people’s motives is important for our own lives regardless of what the fictional character is like. Also, since I’ve not heard much about how the movie is presented, I’d be curious to know how the Joker is portrayed at the beginning versus the end and how it changes the narrative. I hope this movie does not incite violence and I’m interested to see what people think of it.
I'm seeing the Joker this weekend, and I'm very excited. But I can't say I'm not nervous. Coming from a community shaken by gun-violence, I've had to think about it a lot. So really, when I'm somewhere like the movies or an airport, I'm always thinking about the possibility of violence. It's really hard for me to think about not only the most sacred places being plagued with violence, but also spaces in the entertainment industry. I'm glad that security is increasing for the movie, but I really wish it didn't have to. I really wish we were able to see art without being afraid of violence. It definitely feels like we've hit a wall with keeping events like this safe. Instead of doing anything to prevent violence, we're just reacting to violence. There's so many ways to prevent violence that we haven't employed, so instead we're adding security. It's actually kinda ridiculous. I mean, the military issued a warning. Obviously, we need to do more. No amount of security is going to prevent violence. So why is this still what we're doing? Why not implement things that will actually help, like gun control and red flag laws?
I remember my feelings of absolute dread when I heard about the shooting during the screening of “The Dark Knight Rises”. My family didn’t let fear stop us from seeing the film, but at every loud boom or dark moment, I would consistently glance at the door and shrink into my chair to get closer to the ground. I have been doing that ever since. It’s great to hear that special care is being made to prevent violence at “Joker”, yet at the same time, completely devastating. We have gotten to a point where nowhere feels safe and people feel the need to amp up security at just the presence of guns and disturbed characters. Entertainment is meant to be enjoyed and it’s unfair we live in a constant state of fear wherever we go. What is most heartbreaking to me is that I will be seeing the film this Sunday, and I know I’m still going to have the instinct to check the door every few seconds.
I have only vaguely heard about shootings in movie theaters, but the stories of them stayed with me enough for me to always be wary of the entrance. I try to sit near the back so nothing can surprise me from behind, although being by the wall is probably no safer than being anywhere else. I always sank deep into my seat. I always keep half a mind on scanning my surroundings (unless I get really into the movie). I always try to sit away from the door. It is sobering that I feel the need to take these precautions (I'm certain many others do as well); it is sobering that movie theaters have to upgrade security in anticipation of violence. There are words to be had with movies that portray white male villains in a sympathetic light, and when it serves as justification for acts of violence in real life, it becomes double the problem.
Like comments above stated, it is good to hear the police and theatres are taking the matter seriously, yet it is truly unfortunate our society has gotten to this point. We should not have to be concerned about our safety when going to a movie, when going to school, when attending a concert. I think the initiative to not allow cosplay in the theatres is a good idea, and although some patrons were likely disappointed with not being able to dress up as a favorite movie villain, it will likely help others feel more secure. It is uncomfortable, when there is a lack of transparency in a situation one may already feel at risk about. One being able to cover their face brings a level of concern. Furthermore, It is disturbing there is a movement that romanticizes psychopathic and sociopathic behavior. These are real mental health disorders that affect real people and can lead to real consequences. People with extreme (or any in that case) mental health disorders should be taken seriously and treated seriously.
11 comments:
I am so excited to watch this new version of Joker. However, I think that this article is tackling something really important to consider. Media has a very large influence on people. A movie like Joker could be a flash point for incel violence, like this article acknowledges. It’s good to see that theatres are recognizing that content can insight violence. Certain theatres have engaged with local law enforcement to double check security for their theatres. I think that preventative measures taken can always be good - even if it’s just to reassure others of their safety. I also think that theatres are smart for allowing cosplay but still identifying they have the right to search any subject at the discretion of theatre staff. Some places have banned cosplaying entirely. While I am excited for this film - I do consider that providing more empathy to a character that has been viewed as a villain for his entire career presents controversy. In addition, it sorta feels like another film about another white cis male who is struggling.
I’m glad to hear that the security is getting beefed up for the premiere of this movie, but it also disappoints me a little bit in the respect of our society, because while most people may go to see the film as a piece of good cinema, or a fun night at the movies, others will use the social commentary as an excuse to enact acts of violence as seen in the movie. I think this presents a sort of dark realism to the universe of the movie itself, demonstrating things are just as dangerous in the real world (with regular people randomly committing atrocious crimes) as in a fictional universe with a singular manically-crafted super villain. It’s disappointing to reflect upon, and I wish I knew how to change this kind of attitude and environment in society, but I admittedly have no clue. It takes the power of a village to raise the decency of its society, but it’s hard to make change when the village divides into so many different categories. Rant aside, I am excited for this movie. I am not excited, however, for the controversy it seems to be causing. Todd Philips said it himself: “We didn’t make this movie to push buttons...I think it’s because outrage is a commodity, I think it’s something that has been a commodity for a while.”
I am thankful entities are more aware of the incel threat, and are taking actions to make spaces safer. I just can’t understand how we got to this point. I never had to worry about mass shootings at home. As long as you stayed away from trouble, trouble would stay away from you. But here in America it seems like you could get shot anywhere and for no reason other than being at the wrong place at the wrong time. It’s upsetting to think how there are corporate interests over the safety of the people. How we have a political system that could fix this issue but it doesn’t because NRA is a huge donor for political campaigns. But most importantly, I bugs me to believe that there are people out there believing that their right to own a gun is more important than the right of someone else to be safe.
I am so glad to hear that various theatres are taking appropriate measures to protect their patrons. While it is disappointing to me that we must take such precautions to ensure the safety of people in our current climate. While most people (hopefully) will go to see the movie with the intent of enjoying a night out at the movies, others may use scenes depicted in the movie to justify potential acts of violence. I think that, because this movie is- if not glorifying him - making the Joker more empathetically available. Psychopathy is a disorder that is often addressed - especially in the film industry - in a sort of romanticised context. This unhealthy view of mental illness serves to perpetuate the ambiguity of stereotypes surrounding psychopaths and adds to confusion. The director, Todd Phillips, said that he “didn’t make [the] movie to push buttons” but, regardless, buttons will be pushed when confronting such a controversial topic.
It isn’t often that security and movie theatres are often thought about, but it remains an increasing concern. It wasn’t all that long ago that multiple shootings have occurred at movie theatres. However, I still don’t think of security and movies. When I think about cosplay or live events, I think of security check points, metal detectors, searching before entrance, etc. But when it comes to the movie theatre, I think of sitting, popcorn, and someone taking my ticket. The Joker combines these two realities, or so it appears. Cosplaying is becoming increasingly popular and it doesn’t surprise me that people want to cosplay in the movie screenings. But this brings on challenges. These challenges appear to be, being addressed by movie theatres. It is all too common and easy that something wrong could happen and so it makes sense that there is concern about this. It leads me to wonder if this is the new reality or if something will be done about it because we keep bolstering up security and trying to prevent tragedies but that’s it.
This is a very complex issue that has many different facets. It is one that I wasn’t very aware of until very recently. It is difficult that a cautionary tale may inspire those who are of a similar state of mind as the main character of the Joker film to commit heinous acts of violence. It is also difficult that the film has faced some backlash for this apparent inspiration. Films cover many different and difficult topics, this film is not the first of its kind. It is interesting and unfortunate situation that the climate today is one where films about dark and relevant material reach people in ways that may make them act out. The increased security presence at these theaters, however, is better safe than sorry. It is important to recognize that these are issues that could very well manifest into actual action and it is important to keep people safe.
I understand why theaters are increasing security for this movie, especially since there has already been an attack at Batman franchise movie. It’s unfortunate that we live in a time where a movie about a fictional clown could potentially cause violence. That being said articles like this will hopefully reduce the risk of any threat as people will know about the increased security. I understand that people are worried about the idea of presenting the Joker through an empathetic lens, but I don’t think the idea is inherently wrong. Though the timing may not be perfect, understanding people’s motives is important for our own lives regardless of what the fictional character is like. Also, since I’ve not heard much about how the movie is presented, I’d be curious to know how the Joker is portrayed at the beginning versus the end and how it changes the narrative. I hope this movie does not incite violence and I’m interested to see what people think of it.
I'm seeing the Joker this weekend, and I'm very excited. But I can't say I'm not nervous. Coming from a community shaken by gun-violence, I've had to think about it a lot. So really, when I'm somewhere like the movies or an airport, I'm always thinking about the possibility of violence. It's really hard for me to think about not only the most sacred places being plagued with violence, but also spaces in the entertainment industry. I'm glad that security is increasing for the movie, but I really wish it didn't have to. I really wish we were able to see art without being afraid of violence. It definitely feels like we've hit a wall with keeping events like this safe. Instead of doing anything to prevent violence, we're just reacting to violence. There's so many ways to prevent violence that we haven't employed, so instead we're adding security. It's actually kinda ridiculous. I mean, the military issued a warning. Obviously, we need to do more. No amount of security is going to prevent violence. So why is this still what we're doing? Why not implement things that will actually help, like gun control and red flag laws?
I remember my feelings of absolute dread when I heard about the shooting during the screening of “The Dark Knight Rises”. My family didn’t let fear stop us from seeing the film, but at every loud boom or dark moment, I would consistently glance at the door and shrink into my chair to get closer to the ground. I have been doing that ever since. It’s great to hear that special care is being made to prevent violence at “Joker”, yet at the same time, completely devastating. We have gotten to a point where nowhere feels safe and people feel the need to amp up security at just the presence of guns and disturbed characters. Entertainment is meant to be enjoyed and it’s unfair we live in a constant state of fear wherever we go. What is most heartbreaking to me is that I will be seeing the film this Sunday, and I know I’m still going to have the instinct to check the door every few seconds.
I have only vaguely heard about shootings in movie theaters, but the stories of them stayed with me enough for me to always be wary of the entrance. I try to sit near the back so nothing can surprise me from behind, although being by the wall is probably no safer than being anywhere else. I always sank deep into my seat. I always keep half a mind on scanning my surroundings (unless I get really into the movie). I always try to sit away from the door. It is sobering that I feel the need to take these precautions (I'm certain many others do as well); it is sobering that movie theaters have to upgrade security in anticipation of violence. There are words to be had with movies that portray white male villains in a sympathetic light, and when it serves as justification for acts of violence in real life, it becomes double the problem.
Like comments above stated, it is good to hear the police and theatres are taking the matter seriously, yet it is truly unfortunate our society has gotten to this point. We should not have to be concerned about our safety when going to a movie, when going to school, when attending a concert. I think the initiative to not allow cosplay in the theatres is a good idea, and although some patrons were likely disappointed with not being able to dress up as a favorite movie villain, it will likely help others feel more secure. It is uncomfortable, when there is a lack of transparency in a situation one may already feel at risk about. One being able to cover their face brings a level of concern. Furthermore, It is disturbing there is a movement that romanticizes psychopathic and sociopathic behavior. These are real mental health disorders that affect real people and can lead to real consequences. People with extreme (or any in that case) mental health disorders should be taken seriously and treated seriously.
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