Barbie, cruising into the Middle East in her signature pink convertible, has encountered some obstacles on her journey to Kuwait and Lebanon. Late Wednesday, Kuwait made the announcement that Barbie had been banned, without providing further explanation. The decision was based on the belief that the summer hit directed by Greta Gerwig presents ideas and beliefs that are considered foreign to Kuwaiti society and disrupt public order, as per the Associated Press.
Similarly, authorities in Lebanon have taken steps to ban the film, causing a delay in its release until late August. Culture Minister Mohammad Mortada argued that the movie contradicts the moral and religious values as well as the principles of Lebanon. It was claimed that the film promotes homosexuality and sexual transformation, going against their beliefs. Additionally, Minister Mortada stated that the movie promotes sexual deviance and transsexuality.
These bans come at a time when there is an increase in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric by politicians and officials in the Middle East. Homosexuality is deemed sinful in many countries in the region. Last month, Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of the political party and militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon, made comments that appeared to incite violence against the LGBTQ+ community. Nasrallah referred to the community as a “threat to society” and indirectly encouraged harassment and death threats against them.
Despite the controversial bans, it is important to note that the movie Barbie does not overtly portray or discuss sexuality. However, it boasts a star-studded cast, including Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, and also features actors from the LGBTQ+ community such as Kate McKinnon, Hari Nef, Alexandra Shipp, and Scott Evans. This blockbuster film directed by Greta Gerwig has recently crossed the significant milestone of earning over $1 billion at the box office, making Gerwig the first solo female director to achieve this feat.
Interestingly, this is not the only summer blockbuster facing bans in the Middle East. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse was also removed from theaters last month in the region. Reports suggest that the ban was a result of a scene featuring a poster with the transgender flag in the background.
In conclusion, the bans on movies like Barbie and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse are reflective of the ongoing tensions around LGBTQ+ representation in the Middle East. These incidents highlight the clash between societal values, cultural beliefs, and the push for inclusivity and diversity in the film industry.