In a recent development, Vietnam’s government has taken the decision to ban the distribution of the popular “Barbie” movie within the country. Reports from Vietnam’s state media reveal that the ban was imposed due to a specific scene in the film that displays a map showcasing disputed Chinese territorial claims in the South China Sea. The news broke when posters advertising the movie were swiftly removed from various movie distributors’ websites following the government’s decision.
Directed by Greta Gerwig and featuring Margot Robbie as Barbie alongside Ryan Gosling as Ken, the comedic film offers an amusing take on their seemingly flawless world. “Barbie” was initially scheduled to release in Vietnamese theaters on July 21, but the ban has put a halt to its anticipated debut.
According to the reports, Vi Kien Thanh, the director general of the Vietnam Cinema Department, attributed the decision to the National Film Evaluation Council. It was noted that a map displayed in the movie includes China’s controversial “nine-dash line,” which extends Beijing’s territorial claims into waters also claimed by Vietnam and other neighboring countries.
The Vietnamese government’s decision to ban the movie reflects its stance on the disputed South China Sea territories and underscores the sensitivity surrounding the matter. This move aims to prevent any potential controversy or misrepresentation related to the ongoing territorial disputes in the region.
While the ban may disappoint fans of the iconic doll and the film’s star-studded cast, it demonstrates Vietnam’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests and maintaining a diplomatic approach to territorial issues. The decision serves as a reminder of the geopolitical complexities and sensitivities surrounding the South China Sea disputes.
Warner Brothers Studio clarified that the doodles featured in the “Barbie” movie were meant to illustrate Barbie’s imaginative journey from Barbie Land to the real world, without any intention to make a political statement. The studio emphasized that the map used in the film holds no political significance and described it as a playful and child-like crayon drawing. The statement aims to provide an explanation regarding the inclusion of the map in the movie and dismiss any perceived political connotations.
As of now, it remains uncertain whether the ban on “Barbie” will be lifted in the future or if the movie will be made available through alternative means for Vietnamese audiences.