Open Forum Friday: Should Movie Theatres Increase Security Measures?
The topic of movie theatre security is once again on the minds of American moviegoers and theatre owners following attacks in both Lafayette, Louisiana and Nashville, Tennessee this summer. It was three years ago that James Holmes shot and killed 12 people during a screening of The Dark Knight Rises in Aurora, Colorado and at the time nothing was done to prevent a similar attack from happening again. This time around, however, there seems to be increased pressure to enhance security with some people even calling for the addition of metal detectors or armed guards. What remains somewhat unclear, however, is if this is actually something the average moviegoer wants and whether they would be willing to pay for it.
This week Regal Cinemas have announced that they will start checking bags on the way into the theatre. Other chains have yet to follow suit, but you can bet they will be watching to see how people react. It’s a small step toward improving safety, but the last thing they want to do is make going to to movies more expensive or inconvenient than it already is. What do you think? Should movie theatres start implementing the same precautions as concerts and sporting events? Would you be annoyed about extra bag checks or is that a good compromise? Do you feel safe when you go to the movies or are there major changes needed? Give us your thoughts here on Open Forum Friday.
