Joker: Dark Knight shooting victims' parents respond to Warner Bros statement over film violence

Families previously shared an open letter expressing concern at the portrayals of violence and mental health in the film starring Joaquin Phoenix

The parents of a young woman who was killed in the 2012 Aurora, Colorado cinema shooting have responded to Warner Bro’s defence of its new film Joker.

The film has sparked concern for some that violent scenes and depictions of mental health in the film could inspire real-life violence.

Sandy and Lonnie Phillips, whose 24-year-old daughter Jessica was killed at a screening of The Dark Knight Rises when a gunman opened fire on a cinema, want Warner Bros to devote more resources to combatting gun violence ahead of the release of its origin story about Batman’s nemesis.

The joint letter from the five Aurora families, which was addressed to new Warner Bros CEO Ann Sarnoff, said: “We are calling on you to be a part of the growing chorus of corporate leaders who understand that they have a social responsibility to keep us all safe.”

The letter also called on parent company AT&T to stop donating to politicians who take money from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and for Warner to make donations to groups that aid victims of gun violence.

In response, Warner Bros. said it took the situation seriously: “Gun violence in our society is a critical issue, and we extend our deepest sympathy to all victims and families impacted by these tragedies,” the studio said earlier this week.

“Our company has a long history of donating to victims of violence, including Aurora, and in recent weeks, our parent company joined other business leaders to call on policymakers to enact bipartisan legislation to address this epidemic.”

In 2012, Warner Bros. donated more than £1 million to charities supporting victims of the Aurora shooting.

Sandy and Lonnie Phillips said now said that while they are “pleased” with Warner Bros’ message, they want the company to lead change rather than just ask for it, The Hollywood Reporter reports.

“In its statement, Warner Bros. highlighted its past support for the survivors of gun violence and its rhetorical public call on lawmakers in Congress to pass stronger gun reform laws,” the couple said.

“Let us be clear: Asking for change is a good first step, but it’s nowhere near enough. Warner Bros. and its parent company must put its money where its mouth is and announce that it will no longer provide political donations to candidates and lawmakers who stand in the way of gun reform.”

Director Todd Phillips told IGN in an interview: “The movie makes statements about a lack of love, childhood trauma, lack of compassion in the world. I think people can handle that message.”