[ By DAN DEMING ]

[ ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR ]

This week’s movie news is centered around whether this is the right time for another gun violence movie. There are definitely differing opinions ranging from movie-makers noting there are no surveys indicating violence on the big screen triggers copycats to others saying a film like “Joker” can inspire mass shooting duplications.

A few theaters are passing on this Warner Bros. production, while Landmark Theatres is barring guests from wearing masks. Others have lined up extra security as this Batman villain moves onto many more screens following a limited release last weekend.

Quirky, but talented actor Joaquin Phoenix plays a mentally ill aspiring comedian whose societal rejection causes him to snap and embark on crime. The movie’s sidebar focuses on Arthur Fleck’s (Phoenix) sexuality issues with his mother who lives next door.

Whether the release of “Joker” is irresponsible will depend on your viewpoint and what may happen once it actually hits theaters nationwide. But along with criticism that the movie is too sympathetic with dark culture, there is also Oscar buzz in some quarters about the performances and overall production. B&B Theatres at the mall will be showing “Joker” throughout the weekend and probably for several weeks to come.

 

“Movie news you can use” is a weekly feature submitted by Dan Deming. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those of Hutch Post or its affiliates.