Sleiman, who is of Lebanese origin, is also openly gay. Angelina Jolie is responding to her new movie Eternals apparently being banned by certain Gulf Nations. US City Takes Stand Against Caste Discrimination Despite Opposition from Hindu Nationalists, Mohammad Hasnain Overshadows Peshawar Zalmis Victory. As per the website, edit requests were made by the local censors that Disney was not willing to make. Also, the actors of the Eternals were playing a good role in making the platform, as well as the Marvel studios, look good. It has a rotten score of 51 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes, a review aggregation site. Current box office estimates for Eternalsthis weekend offer anywhere from $67 million to $92 million, with Deadlines estimates offering $75 million. And then they can give their two middle fingers to their governments. While no official ban is in place, the word is that Disney was asked to make edits to the film regarding the films gay character Phastos, played by Brian Tyree Henry. The streaming platform has been gaining much attention due to its latest projects that include certain Disney plus series and movies. All Rights Reserved. Last month,Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness was the latest studio film to be banned in parts of the region due to a gay character. Disney held firm on that movie and refused to censor it, so hopefully this is proof that the studio is entering a new era in which it supports its filmmakers' visions and won't compromise its movies to achieve the widest possible appeal. As per the report, censors soughtfurther cuts beyond any scenes of intimacy inSaudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman. The reason: depicting a same-sex relationship. Eternals and West Side Story also suffered bans late last year. A still from Eternals. For decades, Disney has positioned itself as Hollywood's most family-friendly major studio which traditionally has meant avoiding same-sex relationships on screen altogether. The reason was just a single line referring to a lesbian relationship. Angelina Jolie reacted to the news that her new Marvel movie, Etertnals, has been banned by several countries in the Middle East over the portrayal of gay couple. The Indian Express website has been rated GREEN for its credibility and trustworthiness by Newsguard, a global service that rates news sources for their journalistic standards. Although the film was scheduled to be released on November 11, neither the studio northe local territories have officially provided areason for cancelling the release. As a result, the movie was removed from the websites and platforms in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. 'Eternals' to release on Nov 5; How and where to watch Angelina Jolie-starrer online? The ban was due to Disneys decision not to censor a kissing scene between two gay characters. In 2020, Onward, the Pixar title created hype when it got banned in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Marvels Eternals Gets Banned Over LGBTQ+ Characters in Middle East Countries Marvel Studios Eternals was banned from cinemas in the Gulf, a response likely given due to the inclusion of a same-sex couple. The reason: depicting a same-sex relationship. If any particular country or region is scared of whatEternalshas to show the world, then they're only calling themselves out for the rest of the world to see. Angelina Jolie, who played Thena in the movie, criticized peoples way of thinking about homosexuality. Sleiman, who is of Lebanese origin, is also openly gay. 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But the studio removed a same-sex kiss between characters in"Star Wars:The Rise of Skywalker" to appease some international censors. It's quite notable how Marvel Studios and Disney are putting their footdown and refusing to make any changes or edits that wouldget rid of the important representation held withinEternals. Since homosexuality is still illegal in many countries in the Middle East, the requested edits likely centered on Marvel's first openly gay superhero, Phastos, who is played by Brian Tyree Henry. By subscribing, I agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Everything to Know About Police Line Mosque Blast in Peshawar, What Are the 7 Seas and 5 Oceans of the World, Why Pakistani Meme Wow Grape Went Viral on Social Media. Marvel Studios latest Eternals has reportedly been banned in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, as per The Hollywood Reporter. As per Disney plus, it doesnt wish to break the viewership in any of GULF countries. Eternals is still slated to release domestically on November 5, 2021. Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Salma Hayek, Angelina Jolie, Gemma Chan, Lia McHugh, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Don Lee, Gil Birmingham, Harish Patel, and Kit Harington also star. A particular pressure point for many overseas countries, including China and Russia, has been the LGBTQIA+ relationship between the Eternal Phastos and his loving husband, with whom he shares a child. Marvel Studios Eternals was banned from cinemas in the Gulf, a response likely given due to the inclusion of a same-sex couple. Signup for Breaking News Alerts & Newsletters. One regional cinema chain explained that Eternals had been banned but said they hadnt been told why. She expressed astonishment that how is everyone comfortable living in such a society that doesnt accept love and good relationships. Jolie was surprised to see how can someone be so threatened, angry, or against something so beautiful like love. Marvel Studios Eternals was banned from cinemas in the Gulf, a response likely given due to the inclusion of a same-sex couple. How Viral Dance of Pakistani Girl Has United India and Pakistan? Marvel Studios is getting ready to release its next big screen blockbuster, and while Eternals will almost certainly be the number one move at the domestic box office this weekend. The cosmic epic has been hyped up by those involved for a long time now, so it's weird to think that it's actually almost time to watch it. Homosexuality is illegal in Gulf and certainly, the Marvel movie Eternals wasnt doing good at making the film more appropriate for the viewers of these countries. Marvel's Eternals will reportedly be banned from release in certain countries - a list which includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. One regional cinema chain explained that Eternals had been banned but said they hadnt been told why. In 2021, Marvel released The Eternals, which featured Phastos, a gay, married man, and his husband. Marvel Cinematic Universe's star-studded action-adventure flick Eternals is enjoying a theatrical release across the USA as well as India on November 5. In recent years, the company has been taking the tiniest steps beyond that archaic restriction, featuring an "exclusively gay moment"in "Beauty and the Beast"and a reference to a gay relationship in "Avengers: Endgame.". 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Is Akshay Kumar Supporting War with Pakistan? The Eternal Phastos has a husband and children. The film is still expected to come out inthe United Arab Emirates. Homosexuality is still officially illegal across the Gulf, and films containing anything related to LGBTQ issues are frequently pulled from release. This is good news for those that want to see representation increase on the big screen. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. We hear from industry sources that the movie was picked up by a regional distributor but has been banned in parts of the Gulf due to LGBTQ issues, meaning it has been shelved for now. Property Brothers Preschool Series Builder Brothers Dream Factory Sets Premiere (Exclusive), Viagra Trial Drama Men Up Coming to BBC From Russell T. 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Marvel movie Eternals was undoubtedly one of the most anticipated films this year. The latter is hosting the World Cup later this year. Upon the news about Eternals getting banned in multiple Arab countries, some Hollywood celebrities spoke about it. Director Chloe Zhao was part of conversations about this very topic, and she, at the time, was hopeful that edits would not be made, and now it appears Marvel is backing her up. MCU: Steven Yeun's Big Superhero Revealed by New Rumor, Ant-Man Quantumania Bad Reviews: Writer Breaks Silence on Negative Reaction, The Mandalorian Director Breaks Silence Following Gina Carano's Firing, The Mandalorian Season 3 Premiere: Exact TIME of Release on Disney+, James Cameron Responds to Big Complaint About Avatar 2, The Flash Movie Synopsis References Henry Cavill's Superman. New York, The publication was told by sources that the gay relationship in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movie may have been the reason. Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Lee Curtis, Stephanie Hsu and Ke Huy Quan star in Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinerts critical darling Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has simmered its way to a healthy domestic box office of $37M and counting. However, in this case it seems Disney/Marvel was apparently unwilling to do so. I never thought I would see that, let alone that I got to do it., Sleiman is also confident that Eternals will be seen, even in countries where its banned. In fact, they despised the fact that such countries are negligent towards accepting LGBT existence. In the movie, Phastos shares a kiss with his husband Ben (Haaz Sleiman), there are several references to their marriage, and we see them in domestic life raising their son. In 2020, Onward, the Pixar title created hype when it got banned in Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. In the meantime, the rest of the world will get to watchEternalson November 5, 2021. 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RELATED:'Cocaine Bear' Mauls 'Ant-Man' 3 Box Office. This grasped the attention of some celebrities who didnt like the way Arab countries reacted. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film was supposed to debut in theaters in those countries on November 11, but when local censors presented Disney with a series of desired edits, the studio reportedly refused to comply. Written by Zhao, Ryan Firpo, and Kaz Firpo, Eternals introduces a new group of superheroes, the titular Eternals, who have lived in secret on earth for 7000 years. The ban was prompted by Lebanese group Campaign to Boycott Supporters of Israel-Lebanon because the pics lead actress, Gal Gadot, is Israeli and a former soldier in that countrys army. You will be redirected back to your article in, AMC-Branded Popcorn To Debut At Walmart Oscar Weekend; CEO Touts Authentic Taste Of Real Movie Theatre Popcorn At Home, Creed III Eyeing Franchise-Record 3-Day Debut Of $38M-$40M: Weekend Preview, Dune: The Sisterhood Star Shirley Henderson & Director Exit Amid Creative Overhaul, WGAW Exec Director David Young On Medical Leave; Ellen Stutzman To Lead Contracts Talks, HBOs Bill Maher, On CNN As Part Of Its New 9 PM Strategy, Predicts Biden Beats Trump In 24. The film has already found issues with China when it comes to getting a proper release, in fact, the country was rumored to want parts edited out. Sources suggest the decision was likely made over the inclusion of a same-gender couple in the film and the MCUs first gay superhero. In recent days, Eternals has made headlines across the Middle East region after it was banned in Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Marvel's Eternals will reportedly be banned from release in certain countries - a list which includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. Previous references to homosexulaity in Disney movies like Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and the live-action Beauty and the Beast were simply fleeting images that could easily be taken out without major changes to the film. What is really going to hurt Eternals, and it is something that hurt both Black Widow and Shang-Chi, is not getting a China release, as if we compare these flicks box offices to that of the Ant-Man movies, China made up around 20% of the gross, so Eternals, Black Widow, and Shang-Chi are probably losing out on close to $100 million or more each. They have displayed to the world that they are not only a disgrace to humanity, but to God. Sleiman said that he doesnt support or respect the governments with a mindset negating LGBT and that these authorities have showcased how they are just a disgrace to both humanity and God. 2023 Variety Media, LLC. The Eternal Phastos has a husband and children. Post by Mark. And now they get to see this its above and beyond., When we talked Friday, Sleiman recalled how it was his idea to have his character speak some Arabic in the film. Marvel Studios Eternals was banned from cinemas in the Gulf, a response likely given due to the inclusion of a same-sex couple. Eternals and West Side Story also suffered bans late last year. The intensity of legal actions against the disapproved acts in GULF countries can be understood through another incident that happened in the recent past. By Kofi Outlaw - November 4, 2021 11:57 am EDT. In 2021, Marvel released The Eternals, which featured Phastos, a gay, married man, and his husband. Hopefully this will inspire the Saudi people, the Kuwaiti people and the people in Qatar to fight back.. The Mandalorian Season 3 Reviews: What Are Critics' First Reactions? The fantasy mind-bender follows an ageing Chinese immigrant swept up in a wild adventure, where she alone can save the world by exploring other universes connecting with the lives she could have led. Part of Phase Four of the MCU, it is due for release on Nov. 5 following its world premiere on Oct. 18 in L.A. THR has reached out to Disney for comment. Celebrities Against the ban. Back in May 2017, Warner Bros. Wonder Woman was officially banned in Lebanon. Portrayed by Brian Tyree Henry, Phastos is a superhero who appears in Eternals and is married to Ben who is depicted by Haaz Sleiman. Eternals features a huge ensemble cast of actors. In the United Arab Emirates, however, the film is still listed as among the titles coming soon. Home Movie News Eternals Box Office Blow: Banned In Middle East, Likely China. Deadline is a part of Penske Media Corporation. Eternals and West Side Story also suffered bans late last year. Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy. By Anthony D'Alessandro, Nancy Tartaglione. Eternals is banned from theaters in Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Qatar because of the movies gay elements. We have reached out to A24 and Saudi Arabias General Commission for Audiovisual Media for comment. Its not like this was unexpected. Haaz Sleiman says he was close to tears when he learned of Disneys response to Eternals being banned in several Middle Eastern countries because of the MCU films LGBTQ+ content. The reason: depicting a same-sex relationship. The publication was told by sources that the gay relationship in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movie may have been the reason. All Rights Reserved. Marvel Studios' "Eternals" will not play in theaters in the Middle Eastern countries of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Qatar. However, Disney opted not to make the dits resulting indistribution certificates not being issued. Last year, the Pixar title Onwardwas banned across Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia over a single line referencing a lesbian relationship. ' Eternals ' didn't make it to box-offices in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. Haaz Sleiman says he was close to tears when he learned of Disneys response to Eternals being banned in several Middle Eastern countries because of the MCU films LGBTQ+ content. It looks like there are more countries that may be having issues with it as well; namely the Gulf region. Meanwhile,United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt will enjoy the movie without thescenes of intimacy seeing as this is a normal practice for such markets. When the decision was made to make one of the Eternals gay, this was likely discussed internally back then, and the decision was made to do it anyway. In one scene, the character, Phastos (played by Brian Tyree Henry), and his on-screen husband, Ben (Haaz Sleiman), share a kiss. The film has not pleased critics. For Disney, a studio which has previously earned its fair share of bad press for kowtowing to international censoring requests in order to maximize global profits, this is a somewhat surprising (and welcome) instance of the studio showing some backbone and putting creative integrity over transparent greed. Post by Mark. Not only is Phastos the MCUs first gay superhero, but he and Ben are married and fathers to a young son. MCU And in an alternate universe, Brian Tyree Henry's Phastos wouldn't have been the first LGBTQ superhero in the MCU: Tessa Thompson's Valkyrie character from "Thor: Ragnarok"was going to be bisexual, but the final cut of the movie ended up removing a scene which confirmed her sexuality. Upon the news about Eternals getting banned in multiple Arab countries, some Hollywood celebrities spoke about it. Marvel Studios' "Eternals"will not play in theaters in the Middle Eastern countries of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Qatar. The Angelina Jolie and Salma Hayek starrer was also blocked inKuwait and Qatar. Senior Film Awards, Events & Lifestyle Editor. Marvel Studios latest Eternals has reportedly been banned in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, as per The Hollywood Reporter. It's always important not to give in to censorship, as the practice is the antithesis of art itself. Get our latest storiesin the feed of your favorite networks. That subplot is arguably one of the movie's biggest emotional cruxes of the film, so removing it would severely hurt the overall storytelling. Reportedly, only one scene became the sole reason for the ban on the film. Marvel'sEternalsis all set to release in theatres on November 5 in the US and in India. How ChatGPT is Reshaping the Future of These 5 Jobs? Get our latest storiesin the feed of your favorite networks. Upon the news about Eternals getting banned in multiple Arab countries, some Hollywood celebrities spoke about it. Disney's stance on this issue shows that the studio has supported director Chlo Zhao, who was hopeful that the relationship would not be censored when she spoke to Indiewire last month. Were told theres hope that some territories in the region may still release the film, but the word is that key markets such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait wont be showing it. Breaking news and interviews on comics, sci-fi, horror and more. According to a report from Deadline, the Disney/Marvel movie Eternals will not be hitting the big screens in some Middle Eastern countries namelySaudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman. The streaming platform received multiple requests from the local censors but it did not comply with any of the edit requests. The UAE announced six months ago that it would do away with film censorship and instead introduce a 21+ rating. 2023 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. Its said that in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman, the censors wanted further cuts beyond any scenes of intimacy and that Disney opted not to make the edits, so Eternals isnt going to be released. There was a problem. The UAE announced six months ago that it would do away with film censorship and instead introduce a 21+ rating. The film has already found issues with China, they're only calling themselves out for the rest of the world to see, Ant-Man 3's Kang Might've Had Sex With Janet, Reveals Writer, Star Wars Officially Canonizes Gina Carano's Cara Dune Exit Post-Firing, Mandalorian Producer Clears Confusion on Grogu's Luke Skywalker Timeline. The reason was just a single line referring to a lesbian relationship. The distributor is lining up a 100+ screen rollout from May 13th. "I don't know all the details, but I do believe discussions were had and there's a big desire from Marvel and myself we talked about this to not change the cut of the movie," she said. Why Eternals Has Been Pulled From Theaters In The Middle East By Dirk Libbey last updated November 05, 2021 Several nations have apparently decided not release Eternals. Phastos kisses his husband Ben in the movies. Marvel Studios' "Eternals" will not play in theaters in the Middle Eastern countries of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Qatar. Meanwhile in Kuwait and Qatar, the Chloe Zhao-directed super-gods movie was blocked. Several nations have apparently decided not release Eternals. Lastly, she appreciated Disney for not backing down and censoring the scenes. Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, The reason was just a single line referring to a lesbian relationship. This is dealing with a primary character, so it may have simply been too tough. 2023 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. Was removed from the local censors but it did not comply with of... Score of 51 per cent on rotten Tomatoes, a gay, married man, and Qatar,. 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