Disney’s Lightyear banned in 14 countries over same-sex kiss
It's thought the film will also be banned in China as well.
Words: Alastair James; pictures: Disney
Disney-Pixar’s latest cinematic release, Lightyear, has been reportedly banned in 14 countries over a same-sex kiss between two characters.
The animated film, which explores the man (voiced by Captain America Chris Evans) behind the legendary toy, is due for release on Thursday 16 June.
It was reported by Reuters on Monday (13 June) that the film is banned in the United Arab Emirates as well as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Lebanon.
“It’s frustrating”
According to Reuters, the UAE has said the film violates the country’s media content standards. Many Middle-Eastern countries still criminalise same-sex relationships
China is also reported to have asked for cuts to the film which Disney has rejected making it likely the film also won’t be shown there.
Chris Evans is reported by The Independent as saying at the film’s UK premiere: “It’s great that we are a part of something that’s making steps forward in the social inclusion capacity, but it’s frustrating that there are still places that aren’t where they should be.”
Said kiss apparently takes place between Uzo Aduba’s character and their partner.
The Independent also reports producer Galyn Susman said they wouldn’t cut the scene, “especially something as important as the loving and inspirational relationship that shows Buzz what he’s missing by the choices that he’s making”.
However, it’s understood that Disney had removed the clip earlier but restored it following protests from Disney employees over the company’s messy handling of Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay, Don’t Say Trans’ bill.
Earlier this Year Disney refused to make cuts to Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, which also included (brief) LGBTQ references.
Watch the trailer for Lightyear below:
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