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Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine's office announced Thursday it is investigating AMC Theatres and two other top movie chains for possible anti-trust violations.

(AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine's office announced Thursday it is investigating the nation's three largest movie theaters for possible anti-trust violations.

The investigation centers on whether AMC Theatres, Cinemark Theatres, and Regal Entertainment Group unfairly kept independent theaters and film centers from entering the market, according to DeWine spokesman Dan Tierney.

Tierney said the AG's office is looking at "all aspects" of the movie theater market, including the ability of big chains to get top movies such as the highly anticipated "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," which opens Thursday.

DeWine's office announced its probe only after the three movie chains disclosed to stockholders that they were being investigated. Tierney declined to say when the investigation was launched, though a DeWine news release stated that nine other states have opened similar inquiries.

"All businesses should have a fair chance to compete," DeWine said in a statement.

Phone calls to the three theater chains seeking comment were not immediately returned Thursday morning.