Warner Bros.’ latest blockbuster hit, “Barbie,” seems to be experiencing a rollercoaster of reactions in the Middle East. While it has been met with immense success globally, it has faced differing fates in Kuwait and Lebanon, sparking debates about cultural values and representation.
In a surprising turn of events, the film has been banned in Kuwait, a country known for its stringent censorship regulations when it comes to cinematic content. Lafi Al-Subaie, chairman of the film censorship committee, has voiced concerns over the movie’s themes, stating that it “carries ideas that encourage unacceptable behavior and distort society’s values.” This move underscores Kuwait’s commitment to upholding conservative values in its film industry.
READ MORE: Netflix’s ‘Painkiller’: A Flashy Yet Frenetic Take on the Opioid Crisis
Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the reaction has taken a different direction. The country, often seen as relatively progressive in the region regarding LGBTQ+ rights, has raised eyebrows by accusing “Barbie” of “promoting homosexuality” and conflicting with traditional values of faith and morality. The culture minister, Mohammad Mortada, expressed concerns that the film undermines the significance of the family unit. Consequently, the government body overseeing film censorship has been requested to review the movie and offer its recommendation, potentially leading to a ban in Lebanon.
The juxtaposition of reactions reflects the complex interplay between cultural norms and cinematic representation. While the banning of “Barbie” in Kuwait aligns with the nation’s conservative stance on film content, Lebanon’s accusation of promoting homosexuality underscores the intricate nature of LGBTQ+ representation in media within different cultural contexts.
Despite these bans, the film is gearing up for release in the Middle East’s two largest markets, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). After much anticipation and speculation, it was recently announced that “Barbie” is set to hit screens on August 10 in these regions. However, the release comes with uncertainties regarding potential edits and cuts that were requested by censors. The modifications, if any, reflect the ongoing negotiations between global entertainment giants and local cultural sensitivities.
As “Barbie” navigates the intricate landscape of the Middle East, it continues to highlight the power of cinema in shaping perceptions, challenging societal norms, and sparking important conversations. The differing reactions in Kuwait, Lebanon, and other countries remind us that while storytelling is universal, its interpretation and impact can vary widely based on cultural, social, and political contexts.