With all that “Spider-Man” news today, you’re probably jonesing for your daily “Joker” fix, right? I mean, considering the first four days of this week has been dominated by discussion and debate over Todd Phillips’ latest film and how it may or may not inspire violence, the fact that today has been relatively quiet is shocking. Well, never fear, there’s “Joker” news to be had today, as Warner Bros. has decided to break protocol for the upcoming premiere of the comic book film.
According to Variety, WB has decided to uninvite print and broadcast journalists from the upcoming world premiere of “Joker” this weekend in Hollywood. The red carpet, which is normally lined with press asking the cast and crew questions about the film, will only be the home of photojournalists, hoping to get a shot of the celebs as they enter the screening.
Interestingly, the studio didn’t try to make up some reason for this change in protocol. Speaking to Variety, the studio made it clear that the reason why the press is getting the cold shoulder is to avoid awkward questions until people have seen the actual film.
“Our red carpet is comprised of photographers only. A lot has been said about ‘Joker.,’ and we just feel it’s time for people to see the film,” said a WB spokesperson.
Look, journalists don’t have a “right” to be at the red carpet premiere of a film, but considering this is how things have functioned for decades, the fact that WB is changing things up for “Joker” is a bit shocking, even with all the controversy surrounding the film. It appears that the studio is only interested in celebrating the release of the film and not have the cast and filmmakers associated with the project hit with a barrage of questions about politics, gun reform, and mass murderers.
READ MORE: The U.S. Military Is Concerned About Potentially Violent “Incels” At ‘Joker’ Screenings
But then again, one could argue that if you make a film such as “Joker,” you’re opening yourself up to get those sorts of questions.
Obviously, this only affects journalists and fans of the film likely won’t care that there’s a lack of red carpet interviews. Still, it’s just one more chapter in the odd story of “Joker” coming to theaters.