Theater forced to close last night after credible Joker threat

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

Well, the controversy keeps a swirling around director Todd Phillips' JOKER starring Joaquin Phoenix. Over the weekend, police have increased their numbers both in and around theaters, and theaters themselves have put new rules, such as no costumes are allowed and all bags must be checked.   

But it seems that it all went a step further last night as a theater in Huntington Beach, California was forced to cancel the final two showings of the movie after they received a threat that was credible enough for police to close the venue "out of an abundance of caution."

It seems like it's all good now as police have determined the theater can safely reopen today. That said, local cops will provide patrols at the theater for the remainder of the opening weekend. On a brighter note, it looks like JOKER is set to be a massive hit as it snagged a record-breaking $13.3 million last night alone on its way to an $80+ opening weekend.

The film was slapped with an R rating for "strong bloody violence, disturbing behavior, language, and brief sexual images." Are you planning to see JOKER this weekend? Let us know below! Here's the official synopsis:

Failed comedian Arthur Fleck encounters violent thugs while wandering the streets of Gotham City dressed as a clown. Disregarded by society, Fleck begins a slow dissent into madness as he transforms into the criminal mastermind known as the Joker.

Phoenix's co-stars in the film include Robert De Niro as a talk show host; Frances Conroy as Penny, the mother of Arthur Fleck, the man who becomes the Joker; Marc Maron as an agent; Brett Cullen as wealthy mayoral candidate Thomas Wayne, father of future Batman Bruce Wayne; and Zazie Beetz as a single mother who catches Arthur's attention. JOKER is NOW PLAYING at your local movie theater.