The lessons of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour film are apparently being applied to the new Beyoncé screenings. And that’s rubbing some the wrong way.
AMC has published a list of “helpful tips” for the anticipated film audience designed to set expectations. Already, the list is drawing a skeptical eye from social media, with users wondering whether the same standards applied to other concert films.
“We want to see your amazing outfits!,” said the site statement. “Feel free to take selfies and group shots to celebrate the occasion and the beautiful ensembles you came up with, but please DO NOT take pictures or record while the film is playing. Be sure to post your photos on social media with #RENAISSANCETHEFILM.”
But the message gets a little less enthusiastic from there.
“If parts of your outfit will potentially block other viewers from the screen, please remove them as the film begins (ex. headwear, wings, etc) and please keep in mind that masks (except for standard face masks used explicitly for health and safety reasons) are not permitted.
It continues, “You know the words, you know the choreography — sing & dance your heart out, but please respect each other’s space along with the theatre equipment. Do not dance on seats or block other guests from viewing, safely walking or exiting the auditorium.”
The AMC message advises, “Get COZY before it gets crazy. Save your energy for once you are inside the RENAISSANCE showing room. We want to make sure other AMC guests enjoy their movie-going experience as much as you do.”
Go to the bathroom before the film, the message concludes. And tickets are not refundable.
Some observers were not amused.
“Did they put the same warnings out beore the Swift concert film?” asked user Mike Given.
“And they are wondering why people don’t go to theaters anymore,” said user Punk’s Dead. “Give the people what they want. When we released the best movie ever made Punk’s Dead people were singing and dancing. It was awesome.”
IAmHerr also chimed in. “The policing is can’t stop, won’t stop, don’t stop. ‘Help, the movie industry is suffering. Buy our tickets. No, not you. The person behind you.”