How Theaters Plan to Handle Security during ‘Star Wars’ Opening Weekend -- Security Today

How Theaters Plan to Handle Security during 'Star Wars' Opening Weekend

By Sydny Shepard
Dec 16, 2015

Movie theaters are taking security seriously for “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” – even Darth Vader won’t be allowed in. It’s true: Major theater chains are asking movie goers to leave their masks, lightsabers or anything else that may resemble a weapon at home for this premier.

Theaters have been beefing up security in advance of the opening of the latest installment of “Star Wars” in December. The most visible change will be a literal show of force. Visible armed guards will be posted at multiplexes across the country, a response to increased concern about so-called soft targets in the wake of terror attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California.

Movie theaters have been on edge since 2012 when a mass shooting at a multiplex in Aurora, Colorado, during “The Dark Knight Rises” killed 12 people and injured 70 more. There were two more mass shootings in Tennessee and Louisiana in 2015, one at Amy Schumer’s movie “Trainwreck” where 3 were killed.

The release of “Star Wars” is expected to bring millions of fans to U.S. theaters during its opening weekend, many of whom will be opting to see the show at 2 a.m., 3 a.m. or 5 a.m.

AMC, Regal and Cinemark have banned fans from wearing masks, face paint or bringing any sort of simulated weapon to any of the movie showings. Cinemark and Regal will prohibit lightsabers as well. AMC will allow lightsabers, but have asked for users to make sure they are turned off during the movie.

Beyond the show of force, security procedures will include bag checks. Security will be looking for weapons or bombs instead of the normal “outside treats.”

Movie theaters want to stress the fact that consumers shouldn’t be scared to enjoy any highly anticipated films. Leave the security up to them; their top priority is your safety.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

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