After the ‘Dark Knight Rises’ shooting that left 12 people dead and another 50 injured, theaters across the country are addressing security concerns as sold-out crowds return to theaters for the weekend.

In New York City, where ‘Dark Knight Rises’ screenings have been sold out for weeks, additional security personnel will be on hand to ensure the safety of audiences. Says Police Commissioner Ray Kelly:

As a precaution against copycats and to raise the comfort levels among movie patrons in the wake of the horrendous shooting in Colorado, the New York City Police Department is providing coverage at theaters where the ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ is playing in the five boroughs.

According to the Los Angeles Times, numerous security guards were on duty at the AMC theater at the Universal Citywalk though neither they, nor AMC, would go on the record about specific plans for weekend security.

UPDATE: AMC issued a statement saying:

For the safety and security of our guests and associates, we are actively working with local law enforcement in communities through the nation and under the circumstances we are reaching out to all of our theaters to review our safety and security procedures.

They updated that statement on Friday afternoon stating:

We will not allow any guests into our theatres in costumes that make other guests feel uncomfortable and we will not permit face-covering masks or fake weapons inside our buildings.

While the tragedy in Aurora, Colorado is being called an isolated event, expect heightened security if you’re headed out to see ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ this weekend. And if you were planning to attend a screening in costume (as many fans at last night’s midnight screenings were), check with your local theater to see if costumes are now prohibited.

It’s important not to be scared but it’s also important to be safe.

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