Disney has revealed that sequences from the highly anticipated Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker could trigger seizures in photosensitive people. This news comes just eleven days ahead of its Dec. 20 release.
The company issued a statement regarding these sequences with the Epilepsy Foundation, stating that The Rise of Skywalker “contains several sequences with imagery and sustained flashing lights that may affect those with photosensitive epilepsy.” Since the company seems intent keeping plot points from their film tightly under wraps, no specific sequences or scenes were highlighted.
As 3% of people with epilepsy can suffer from photosensitivity triggered seizures, according to the statement, this news relates to the massive group of those will head to theaters to see the film next week. Disney recommended theaters post warnings outside of screenings, and that epileptic viewers see the film with a friend to give warnings of flashing lights.
Skywalker isn’t the first Disney film to receive such a warning, with 2018’s Incredibles 2 having issued notices in theaters that the film could trigger seizures for those with epilepsy. As epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases, and photosensitivity occurs more commonly with young epileptics, this news could be vital for young Star Wars fans.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker hits theaters next Friday, Dec. 20.