Disney Issues Epilepsy Warning for ‘The Rise of Skywalker’

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.

Anabel Prince: Anabel Prince is a writer, podcaster, and video creator living in Athens, GA. She is currently a fourth year journalism, film, and new media student graduating in May 2020 from The University of Georgia. Her food podcast, Zing! With Anabel Prince, launched in August 2019. She has been published by a variety of publications, including Grady Newsource, Visionary Artistry Magazine, UGAzine, Spoon University, and others. Additionally, she has directed one short film as well as multiple news packages and informational videos. A full portfolio of her work can be found on her website, anabelprinceportfolio.weebly.com.
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