Controversial 'Barbie' Film Faces Ban in Multiple Countries, Yet Soars as Highest-Grossing Movie of 2023
Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' film sparks controversy and bans in multiple countries. Despite opposition, the movie becomes highly successful, surpassing $1 billion at the box office and breaking barriers for women in film.
Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' film continues to face controversy and bans in various countries. Kuwait has joined the list of countries imposing a ban on the film, with the chairman of the film censorship committee accusing it of promoting unacceptable behavior and distorting societal values. Lebanon is also likely to ban the film, with the culture minister claiming it promotes homosexuality and contradicts faith and morality.
Despite these bans, 'Barbie' starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling has become one of the highest-grossing films of 2023 so far, surpassing $1 billion in worldwide box office gross and making history as the first movie directed solely by a woman to do so. Lebanon's ban on 'Barbie' reflects a shift in the country's attitudes towards LGBTQ issues.
The interior minister has asked the General Security's censorship committee to review the film, following claims that it promotes homosexuality and undermines the importance of the family unit. In recent years, Lebanon has seen stricter crackdowns against the LGBTQ community and their rights, despite previously being regarded as one of the more liberal countries in the Middle East.
The controversy surrounding 'Barbie' extends beyond Lebanon. Kuwait has banned the film to protect public ethics and social traditions, stating that it promotes ideas and beliefs alien to Kuwaiti society. Pakistan's Punjab province has also delayed the release of the film due to objectionable content, and Vietnam banned it over a scene featuring a disputed South China Sea map.
However, the film was still released in the Philippines after blurring the controversial map segment. While facing bans in certain countries, 'Barbie' has achieved immense success at the box office, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year.
The film's positive reception highlights the inclusivity of Barbie Land, with actress Margot Robbie expressing the importance of representation in the film. Despite accusations and bans, 'Barbie' has made a significant impact and marked a milestone in women-led filmmaking.
