Colorado shooting: AMC bans masks, ‘offensive’ costumes in theaters

AMC Theatres, the nation’s second-largest cinema chain, is forbidding patrons to wear costumes deemed offensive or wear face-covering masks in the wake of the shooting in Colorado at a screening of “The Dark Knight Rises.�

“We will not allow any guests into our theaters in costumes that make other guests feel uncomfortable, and we will not permit face-covering masks or fake weapons inside our buildings,� AMC said in a statement after a shooting rampage early Friday at a theater in Aurora, Colo., that left 12 dead and nearly 60 wounded.

Cinemark, operator of the theater in Colorado where the tragedy occurred, has not addressed whether it plans to impose restrictions on costumes and masks worn by patrons.

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A spokesman for the country’s largest theater chain, Regal Entertainment, said moviegoers “should expect stricter controls over character attire and accessories at our theaters,� but declined to provide details. The chain said refunds would be “handled as usual upon guest request.�

Like other theater chains, AMC said it was cooperating with local law enforcement agencies and landlords to “ensure we provide the safest environment possible for our guests.�

AMC, based in Kansas City, Mo., said show schedules for “The Dark Knight Rises� will not change.

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“If guests wish to exchange or refund any tickets, we will honor our existing policy and do as our guests wish,� it said. “We are taking necessary precautions to ensure our guests who wish to enjoy a movie this weekend can do so with as much peace of mind as possible in these circumstances.�

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