New York City, NY - As the world awaits the release of "Joker", a new movie based on DC Comics' infamous villain, protests have erupted outside a New York City courthouse. However, these protests are not related to President Donald Trump as some might expect.
Instead, protesters are taking issue with the filming of "Joker" and its potential impact on their community. Crews had been facing concerns that filming could be disrupted by real-life protests over the Trump case.
The protesters argue that films like "Joker" glorify violence and can lead to copycat crimes. They fear that the movie's portrayal of mental illness may further stigmatize those who suffer from it.
"This is not about censorship or restricting freedom of speech," said protestor Jane Smith. "It's about holding Hollywood accountable for the messages they put out into the world."
Despite these concerns, production has continued uninterrupted so far. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian who turns to a life of crime in Gotham City.
Producers maintain that "Joker" is intended as an exploration of society's treatment of mental illness and should not be taken as an endorsement of violence.
"We stand by our film and believe in its message," said producer John Doe. "We also acknowledge the importance of listening to all points-of-view and having meaningful conversations around these issues."
As tensions continue to rise outside the courthouse, authorities remain vigilant but hopeful for peaceful demonstrations.
Though many people eagerly anticipate seeing Joaquin Phoenix portray Joker on screen later this year, some residents near where he filmed his scenes worry about how such movies glamorize violence or portray those suffering from mental illnesses negatively when it comes time for them to return home again after shooting wraps up; however producers disagree saying they want viewers everywhere looking critically at societal issues such as mental health and violence in order to create meaningful conversations about how we can better serve those who need help most.