FIRST OFF . . .

The rap group Run-D.M.C. is having trouble launching its film “Tougher than Leather” amid the widespread concern over violence being associated with rap music. The film has been dropped by three New York-area theaters, and in Philadelphia, two youths were shot and hundreds of others involved in fights over the weekend at two theaters showing the movie. Neither shooting victim was seriously injured, but exhibitors are wary of booking the film. Band members have defended the film. At a recent New York news conference, Joseph (Run) Simmons said the group wants to “let the parents, the police and the authorities know we understand (the problem). But we can’t change it by ourself. We need help.”