Despite calls for a ban, the Hollywood film “Barbie” will also be shown in Lebanon as planned. Employees of the committee for the censorship of cinema films in Lebanon watched the film and did not find any scenes that contradict “the moral values” of the country, as security circles from the German Press Agency confirmed on Thursday. According to cinema operator Vox, the film will be shown in Lebanese cinemas from August 31.
The Lebanese Minister of Culture Mohammad Mortada had previously called for a ban. The film contradicts “the moral and religious values in Lebanon”. Mortada is close to Hezbollah, which has close ties to Iran. It is considered an influential political force in Lebanon.
The satire “Barbie” by Greta Gerwig tells with pink comic aesthetics that the iconic doll (played by Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) break out of their home Barbieland. The film considers female and male role stereotypes.
Other Arab countries had banned the film. Kuwaiti authorities said the film promoted “ideas and beliefs alien to Kuwaiti society and public order”. Almost a month after its release, Algeria also stopped further broadcasts of the film.
In contrast, the film was approved in conservatively governed Saudi Arabia, which despite some loosening is still one of the most male-dominated countries in the world. While women enjoy more rights in the kingdom today than they did ten years ago, they still need permission from a male guardian to get married.
Announcement Vox Cinemas, English Announcement by the Kuna news agency, English
