New Delhi: The fantasy-comedy movie ‘Barbi’ is sweeping through theatres worldwide, enthralling audiences with its captivating storyline. However, the film faces uncertain prospects in Pakistan as the Islamabad government contemplates a potential ban due to its LGBTQ+ themes, which have sparked opposition from extremists in the country.
While ‘Barbi’ enjoys immense popularity and captures the audience’s interest, Pakistan’s Punjab Censor Board has imposed a temporary ban on the movie, citing concerns over what they deem objectionable content.’ The Daily Pakistan reports that the ban will eventually be lifted once the contentious content is removed from the film. Currently, the Punjab Censor Board authorities are meticulously reviewing the movie, and a revised version, sans the controversial scenes, will be released in Pakistani cinemas on an unspecified later date, as the process requires a few days to complete.
Pakistan is not the only Muslim country grappling with the movie’s themes, as other Islamic nations, including the UAE, Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, have also banned ‘Barbi.’ Pro-LGBTQ content is often met with resistance in these countries, leading to temporary bans on Hollywood films and series that incorporate such themes. Iran, however, has taken a more decisive approach and has permanently banned the movie.
The ban extends beyond Islamic nations, with countries like Russia, Vietnam, and the Philippines also restricting the film’s screening. Russia temporarily prohibited ‘Barbi’ due to what the state perceives as “promoting a consumerist attitude among infants.” Vietnam and the Philippines, on the other hand, cited the movie’s depiction of the Nine Dash Line as a violation of their sovereignty. They reject China’s claims over the South China Sea, and the depiction of the line in ‘Barbi’ is seen as bolstering China’s claims, leading to the film’s ban in these countries.
Directed by Greta Gerwig and featuring stellar performances from Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, ‘Barbi’ has garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success, drawing full houses in theatres, including in India.
Comments