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Queer film banned in Turkey
Istanbul authorities have banned the screening of Queer at Mubi Fest due to provocative content.

Istanbul authorities have banned the screening of Queer at a festival citing public safety concerns.
Turkey bans Queer film featuring Daniel Craig
The Istanbul district government has prohibited the screening of the film Queer, starring Daniel Craig as a gay man, at the Mubi Fest Istanbul. The authorities deemed the movie's content too provocative, claiming that it could endanger public peace. This decision comes despite the fact that homosexuality is legal in Turkey, but it faces significant societal backlash. Following the ban, Mubi canceled the four-day festival, asserting that such censorship restricts freedom of expression and undermines the festival's purpose. Queer, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is an adaptation of William S. Burroughs' novel, exploring themes of sexuality and romance in 1950s Mexico City.
Key Takeaways
"We view this ban as an intervention that curtails art and freedom of expression."
Statement from Mubi discussing their reaction to the film's ban.
"The film was banned for containing provocative content that could endanger public peace."
Official reason provided by the Istanbul district government for the screening ban.
"Homosexuality is legal in Turkey, yet stigma and hostility persist."
Commentary on the social climate relating to LGBTQ rights in Turkey.
"This censorship undermines the festival's purpose and overall significance."
Mubi's declaration after canceling the festival due to the ban of Queer.
The ban on Queer highlights the ongoing tensions in Turkey regarding LGBTQ rights and artistic expression. Mubi's response reflects a broader struggle against governmental censorship in artistic venues. While the screening was intended to promote dialogue, reactions like this demonstrate how powerful institutions can obstruct cultural discussions. The move raises concerns not just for the film industry but also for the overall state of freedom of expression in Turkey under the current political regime.
Highlights
- Censorship restricts the freedom of art and expression.
- A dangerous precedent is set when cultural dialogue is suppressed.
- Queer shows that truth and love endure, despite opposition.
- Art should provoke, not be silenced.
Censorship and public backlash risk
The ban on Queer raises alarms about censorship in the arts and potential backlash against the LGBTQ community in Turkey. This action may lead to intensified scrutiny and hostility toward similar expressions in the future.
The future of LGBTQ representation in Turkey remains uncertain amid ongoing censorship.
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