"The Dark Knight Rises": Security increased at theaters after Colo. shooting

(CBS News) Security measures are being increased at movie theaters in New York and in Europe after a gunman killed 12 people early Friday at a Colorado screening of "The Dark Knight Rises."

Pictures: "The Dark Knight Rises"
Pictures: The film's New York premiere
Pictures: Colo. police: 12 dead at theater shooting

"As a precaution against copycats and to raise the comfort levels among movie patrons in the wake of the horrendous shooting in Colorado, the New York City Police Department is providing coverage at theaters where the 'The Dark Knight Rises' is playing in the five boroughs," Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said in a statement.

European theaters are also stepping up security in light of the attack, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

A source at U.K. exhibitor Cineworld told THR that the theater chain is increasing security measures at its 79 locations, but declined to reveal details.

"We were already going to increase security for this release, because it is going to be so popular anyway," the source said. "But we are working on this even more as a result of this tragedy."

THR reports that Cinemax33, a German group that has 33 cinemas across Germany and Denmark, is also putting measures in place to reassure movie-goers, while ODEON/UCI, Europe's largest exhibitor, also reacted following the Aurora, Colo., shooting, saying in a statement: "ODEON take the safety and enjoyment of their guests very seriously and in light of the recent incident that took place in the States at a screening of 'The Dark Knight Rises' yesterday evening, ODEON will be continuing their vigilant safety measures and further operational procedures will be introduced to ensure a safe and quality service."

Warner Bros. said it was "deeply saddened" by the shooting, which left 12 dead and wounded dozens. The studio has canceled the film's Friday night premiere in Paris, as well as press interviews with director Christopher Nolan and the film's cast.

According to THR, Warner Bros. has no plans to change the release plan for "The Dark Knight Rises." By midday Friday, the film will be playing in more than 4,400 theaters in North America.