Due to the huge amount of controversy surrounding Joker, Warner Bros. Entertainment has decided not to allow any interviews with the cast and crew at the premiere.
Variety spoke with a spokesperson for Warner Bros., who said there would only be photographers on the red carpet for the film's premiere. “A lot has been said about Joker, and we just feel it’s time for people to see the film," the studio spokesperson said.
The controversy over Joker comes from the violent and dark nature of the film. There are some concerns that a sympathetic portrayal of the Joker could cause others to mimic the character's actions. Some theaters are increasing their security for Joker showings, and U.S. military service members have even been told to watch out for possible mass shootings.
Both the film's star (Joaquin Phoenix) and director (Todd Phillips) have commented on the controversy surrounding Joker. Phillips believes the controversy is unfair, considering there wasn't nearly as much criticism over the violence in John Wick 3.
Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker stars Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron, Josh Pais and Shea Whigham. The film arrives in theaters Oct. 4.