A number of major cinema chains in the US have banned masks and costumes at screenings of Joker, the latest film to feature Batman’s nemesis.
The film, which is set to be released on Friday 4 October, stars Joaquin Phoenix as the infamous Joker – a hugely popular character both in the world of fancy dress and in the dedicated cosplay community.
The ban had been issued in response to concerns about the potential for violence connected to the film, despite Warner Bros.’ assertion that the film is not “an endorsement of real-world violence of any kind”.
A statement from Landmark Theatres says that ‘no masks, painted faces or costumes will be permitted into our theatres’.
AMC Theatres, the US’s largest cinema chain which runs more than 650 venues, says that its standard policy allows audience members to wear costume, but notthing that covers the face.
The official statement reads: “Guests are welcome to come dressed in costume, but we do not permit masks, face paint or any object that conceals the face.”
