The director of the new Batman film has released a statement after a mass shooting during an opening night screening in Aurora.

Christopher Nolan said he would like to express "profound sorrow" on behalf of the cast and crew about "the senseless tragedy that has befallen the entire Aurora community."

"I believe movies are one of the great American art forms and the shared experience of watching a story unfold on screen is an important and joyful pastime," Nolan said.

"The movie theatre is my home, and the idea that someone would violate that innocent and hopeful place in such an unbearably savage way is devastating to me."

Warner Bros., the studio that produced the film, also said it is "deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident."

"We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time," the statement said.

Nolan added that the cast and crew's thoughts are with the victims and their families.

"The Dark Knight Rises" is the final film in Nolan's Batman trilogy.