AMC And Cinemark Ban Masks And Lightsabers From Screenings Of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'

Star Wars: The Force AwakensThe "Star Wars" franchise has many traditions among diehard fans, and dressing up as your favorite character and hitting opening day screenings is paramount among the most ardent devotees. Images from any "Star Wars" premiere over the years inevitably show lines snaking down city blocks with men, women, and children wielding their own homemade lightsabres and wearing Darth Vader masks. But not this year.

Two major cinema chains have quietly announced that certain paraphernalia will not be permitted at screenings of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Cinemark is taking a harder line, noting in their pre-sale announcement that "costumes are welcome. However, no face coverings, face paint or simulated weapons (including lightsabers/blasters) will be allowed in the building."

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AMC is a bit more chill, and will allow lightsabres: just don’t swing them around in the cinemas: "AMC does not permit weapons or items that would make other guests feel uncomfortable or detract from the movie-going experience. Guests are welcome to come dressed in costume, but we do not permit masks. In short, bring your lightsaber, turn it off during the movie, and leave the blaster and Darth Vader mask at home."

The theaters aren’t intentionally trying to rain on the fun. Rather, these prohibitions follow cosplay lockdowns following tragic theater shootings over the past few years.

So, dress accordingly, and see you on December 18th. [THR]