Lebanon’s cultural landscape witnessed a contentious turn as Culture Minister Mohammad Mortada moved to prohibit the screening of the film “Barbie” in cinemas. Citing concerns over its alleged promotion of homosexuality and conflicting with religious values, Mortada’s decision has ignited a debate resonating far beyond the cinematic realm. The move has garnered support from the powerful Shi’ite armed group, Hezbollah, led by Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who has recently heightened his rhetoric against the LGBTQ+ community, invoking religious texts that advocate severe penalties for such acts.
Mortada’s proclamation contends that the film’s narrative “promotes homosexuality and sexual transformation,” thereby eroding cherished faith and morality principles. Consequently, Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi has directed the General Security’s censorship committee, responsible for cinematic censorship decisions, to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the film and provide recommendations.
In a series of events mirroring Lebanon’s stance, Kuwait also announced the prohibition of “Barbie” and the supernatural horror film “Talk to Me,” citing the preservation of “public ethics and social traditions.” While Lebanon once took pioneering strides by hosting the Arab region’s first gay pride week in 2017, the present move underscores a shift in the nation’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights.
Lebanon, often considered a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community in the predominantly conservative Middle East, is now grappling with heightened tensions surrounding this issue. Nasrallah’s recent call to action against content deemed as promoting homosexuality, and the Cabinet’s emphasis on family values, further indicate the shifting socio-political landscape. Ayman Mhanna, Executive Director at the Samir Kassir Foundation, identifies Mortada’s decision as part of a broader, orchestrated campaign against the LGBTQ+ community, uniting various religious factions in a concerted effort.
Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, “Barbie” has surged past $1 billion in global box office sales since its debut on July 21. Beyond its cinematic narrative, the film’s prohibition resonates with deeper discussions on freedom of expression, human rights, and the intersection of cultural and religious values.