In a move that has sparked both local and international debate, Algeria has officially banned the screening of the movie “Barbie” in its cinemas. The film, which has seen remarkable success at the box office, reportedly incited controversy due to its perceived promotion of LGBTQ themes. This decision follows similar actions taken by Lebanon and Kuwait, where the movie has also been prohibited from public viewing.
According to an official source, the Algerian government’s decision to ban the movie is grounded in concerns that it “promotes homosexuality and other Western deviances” and is deemed incongruous with the nation’s religious and cultural values. The movie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as the iconic Barbie and Ken, takes the Mattel Inc. doll on a fantastical journey into the real world. Despite its commercial success, grossing over $1 billion in worldwide box office sales since its premiere on July 21, the film’s content has been met with resistance from conservative quarters.
Algeria’s Culture Ministry, responsible for overseeing the content of films shown in cinemas, holds the authority to intervene and halt screenings that are deemed incompatible with the country’s cultural norms. This regulatory power allows the government to ensure that cinema-goers are exposed to content that aligns with Algeria’s established religious and cultural beliefs.
The prohibition of the “Barbie” movie in Algeria underscores the intricate interplay between artistic expression, cultural values, and political decisions. As this debate unfolds, it also highlights the ongoing global conversation surrounding LGBTQ representation in mainstream media, with differing viewpoints shaping the trajectory of cinematic experiences worldwide.
In solidarity with Algeria, Lebanon and Kuwait have also taken measures to restrict the screening of the movie within their borders. As the discourse surrounding the film gains momentum, questions persist regarding the role of entertainment in shaping societal perspectives, and how nations navigate the delicate balance between freedom of expression and cultural preservation.
