Expect tighter security, costume restriction at Star Wars premieres
Dec 16, 2015, 5:07 PM | Updated: Dec 17, 2015, 3:32 pm
Fans are eagerly awaiting the premier of Star Wars: Force Awakens. The film broke records for pre-sale tickets, at more than $100 million in passes sold. (AP File Photo)
(AP File Photo)
Fans have waited years for this night — the “Star Wars: Force Awakens” premiere. But before you suit up and head out, it’s important to know what to expect: big crowds, extra security, and a dress code.
Every theater will have its own rules, but many chain theaters such as Regal and Cinemark say that for safety reasons they are banning masks, face paint, and replica weapons. Sorry young Jedis, that means no lightsabers, and no dressing up with Sith hoods that hide your face.
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Independent movie houses may have different rules. At Seattle’s Pacific Science Center IMAX Theater, head of guest services Jennifer Tucker says you can dress pretty much however you want. And in line, lightsabers and replica blasters are just fine.
“Then once they get into the theater, everything would have to be turned off. No masks would be on. Lightsabers would have to be turned off and put away. So, there’s no active props or anything allowed inside the theater,” Tucker explained.
She says it’s important to obey Star Wars screening etiquette: you shouldn’t be texting or talking on your cellphone — the same goes for lightsabers distracting from the moment.
Tucker says they’re trying to balance safety with a great Star Wars experience. To that end, they’ve been prepping for weeks.
“We’re ramped up to have multiple lines, and make sure that we’re getting everybody logistically organized. And our staff are definitely prepped to work overnight shifts, which isn’t the norm,” Tucker said.
That’s right — overnight. The premiere broke pre-sale ticket records at $100 million. That’s why Tucker says they’re running 24/7 screenings through the weekend.
At Seattle’s Cinerama, they’ll ask you to leave blasters at home. However, their dress code is a little more lax, with face paint, lightsabers, and even helmets welcomed.
Josh Lackey with Cinerama parent company Vulcan says they’ve also been busy pulling out all the stops for fans.
“We updated our display cases to feature costumes, memorabilia, and props from the original Trilogy. And they’re from the Paul Allen family collection,” Lackey said.
As for security:
“We do have security on site, and we are reserving the right to check bags,” Lackey said. “That’s just an extra precaution to make our guests feel safe.”
