Published 20:20 IST, October 5th 2019
Joker screenings cancelled at theaters due to 'credible' threats
Huntington Beach movie theatres in California has refused the screenings of Joker on the night of October 5, after the police received 'credible threats'
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According to international media reports, Huntington Beach movie theatres in California has refused the screenings of Joker on the night of October 5, the announcement came after the regional police received a considerable threat as reported by the Huntington Beach Police Department. Joaquin Phoenix-starrer Joker has been gathering the spotlight as far back as its release. The movie became very popular among the fans. The actor has received highly acclaimed reviews for his acting in the movie as the iconic Batman villain. But the movie has been facing challenges. While the debate encompassing the movie refuses to die, it has been surrounded by another controversy.
Joker screening cancelled
The last two screenings of the motion picture at the Century Huntington Beach and XD theatre in the Bella Terra mall were dropped after officials were sent to the scene. The showings continued on Friday. The Huntington Beach Police Department said in an explanation that it had received information about a risk to the Century Theater because of the opening of the DC film.
In a statement made by the police, they said, "The police department deemed the threat was credible enough to provide a uniformed presence at the theatre," as quoted by ANI.
Police received threat
The statement provided to the international media further read, “As the investigation continued, our officers worked with the managers of the theatre, who determined they would cancel the final two showings of the movie and close the theatre out of an abundance of caution. Based on the investigation, and in working with theatre management, it was determined that the theatre could safely reopen and resume normal operation,". However, the police refused to uncover any insights concerning the nature of the threat. The screening of the movie resumed and the police reported that the Huntington Beach Police Department will provide protection and patrolling at the Century Theater for this weekend. They further added, “We are working in conjunction with the theatre's management as well as mall security to provide a safe environment to the public. This incident is currently under investigation, and no further details will be provided”.
'Joker', the movie
The film's primary subjects of psychological instability and its relationship to brutality have made theatres and law authorization stress over the message 'Joker' is sending. ‘Joker’ also included a new interpretation of the comic book character's original story pursues a yearning stand-up entertainer called Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) whose escalating mental issues lead him to criminality. The film is being appreciated and there are rumours getting ‘Joker’ getting nominated for Oscars after winning the Golden Lion at the Venice International Film Festival's top award. 'Joker' likewise got eight-minute overwhelming applause at its Venice Film Festival debut.
(With inputs from ANI)
19:25 IST, October 5th 2019