'Star Wars' Theaters Beef Up Security After Paris, California Attacks

With record numbers of customers expected at theaters this weekend for the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, many theaters are upping their security and putting restrictions on costumes and toy weapons because of the recent terror attacks in Paris and California.

Many U.S. theaters have banned masks and toy weapons since James Holmes, dressed as the Joker, opened fire on a midnight showing of The Dark Knight Rises at a theater in Aurora, Colorado, in 2012, killing 12. Several theaters are still encouraging costumes, however.

Cinema chain Regal said costumes are welcome, but masks, face-covering hoods and costume weapons are not. Cinemark is allowing costumes as well, but "no face coverings, face paint or simulated weapons (including lightsabers/blasters) will be allowed in the building." AMC's policy is similar to Cinemark's, but it is allowing lightsabers as long as they remain off throughout the movie.

Gary Goldman, owner of the Theater Management group, told Fox he understands some fans are disappointed with all of the restrictions, but "it's not just movie theaters."  

"It could be anywhere today," he said. "Everyone has to pay attention to their surroundings, and, on the other hand, we don't want to dampen the experience."

Theaters around the nation are adding security as well. Deadline is reporting that theaters "have doubled" workforce security.

One source even said there will be five security guards at each of its locations. "We will have five [guards] posted and reserve the right to check [customers'] bags. We will not let anyone walk in with a backpack or anything larger than a purse, and whatever they are carrying will be checked."

Deadline also reports that some theaters will be using wands as well.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is opening this weekend in a record 4,134 theaters across the country.