There's a disturbance in the force.

Dozens of Event Cinemas staff will be striking tonight for the midnight opening of the series' newest instalment Solo a Star Wars Story.

Unite Union members voted to take industrial action around the country over broken down pay negotiations with Event Cinemas.

Spokesperson Hannah Shelton Agar says at least 50 staff won't turn up from Auckland and Wellington, but couldn't say with certainty all cinemas are involved.

"Obviously the company will try and get by with all the tricks in the book, but my advice to anybody who is wanting to go out and see Star Wars tonight, stick to the safe side and take their business elsewhere."