Preview screenings in Hollywood of several American films have been canceled due to the terrible fires which broke out in the hills above Los Angeles and which forced thousands of residents to urgently evacuate.
The Pacific Palisades wildfire in Los Angeles on Tuesday led to evacuation orders for thousands of people and, among other disruptions, the shutdown of movie premieres for safety reasons. This is the case for “Unstoppable” with Jennifer Lopez and Jharrel Jerome which was to have a red carpet and a screening in West Hollywood. The same was true for the horror film “Wolf Man”, whose premiere which was to take place on Tuesday was also canceled due to the forest fires.
“Given current safety concerns related to increased wind and fires in Los Angeles, we regret to inform you that we are canceling the premiere of ‘Unstoppable’ tonight,” a representative said. ‘Amazon MGM Studios in a statement, via Variety. “While we looked forward to celebrating this wonderful and inspiring film with you, safety is our first priority (…) Thank you for your understanding and stay safe.”
“Unfortunately, tonight’s premiere of ‘Wolf Man’ is canceled due to sensitivity surrounding the deteriorating weather situation in Los Angeles and resulting evacuations,” a Universal Studios representative said.
The premiere of the film “Better Man”, inspired by the life of singer Robbie Williams, scheduled for this Wednesday, was also canceled. “Due to the hazardous weather conditions affecting Los Angeles, we are canceling tomorrow’s premiere of ‘Better Man,’” a studio spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday. “Our hearts go out to those who have been affected by the devastating fires resulting from these conditions, and we encourage everyone to stay safe and follow the advice and orders of local authorities and government agencies.”
Evacuation orders
The fire currently ravaging Los Angeles has spread with the violent winds currently sweeping the region. The fire broke out in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood located in the mountains northwest of the city and popular with millionaires and stars. Homes at the foot of the hills received evacuation orders Tuesday morning.
So far 30,000 people have received orders to evacuate from the Californian authorities. While the fire has already ravaged more than 510 hectares, “many structures already destroyed,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said during a press briefing Tuesday evening. The fire is extremely difficult to contain, especially as winds of up to 160 km/h in the region will blow at least until Wednesday.