Algeria has recently imposed a ban on the screening of the movie “Barbie,” which had been previously shown in certain cinemas across the country for a number of weeks. The ban was reported by the local news source 24H Algerie and was attributed to an official source.
The rationale behind the ban was cited as the movie’s alleged promotion of homosexuality and other Western values that were deemed incompatible with Algeria’s religious and cultural beliefs.
The film “Barbie,” starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as the iconic characters Barbie and Ken, explores the concept of the popular doll venturing into the real world. Despite its commercial success, with box office ticket sales worldwide surpassing $1 billion since its release on July 21, the Algerian authorities decided to restrict its screening within the country. The movie’s content was viewed as conflicting with the country’s religious values and cultural norms.
Algeria is not the only country to have taken such a stance. Lebanon and Kuwait have also chosen to ban the movie, presumably due to similar concerns about its content. Algeria’s Culture Ministry holds the authority to regulate the content of films exhibited in local cinemas and can intervene to halt screenings that are perceived to be in discord with the country’s values.
This move highlights the ongoing tension between modern media and traditional values in various parts of the world. The decision to ban the movie underscores the Algerian government’s commitment to upholding its religious and cultural standards, even when faced with the global popularity and commercial success of a film. It also sheds light on the complex interplay between artistic expression, societal norms, and censorship in different cultural contexts.
About Barbie Movie
Barbie is a 2023 American fantasy comedy film directed by Greta Gerwig from a screenplay she wrote with her partner Noah Baumbach.
Based on the Barbie fashion dolls by Mattel, it is the first live-action Barbie film after numerous computer-animated films and specials. The film follows Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) on a journey of self-discovery following an existential crisis.
It features an ensemble supporting cast, including America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Helen Mirren, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, Michael Cera, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell.
A live-action Barbie film was announced in September 2009 by Universal Pictures with Laurence Mark producing. Development began in April 2014, when Sony Pictures acquired the film rights. Following multiple writer and director changes and the casting of Amy Schumer and later Anne Hathaway as Barbie, the rights were transferred to Warner Bros. Pictures in October 2018.
Robbie was cast in 2019, after Gal Gadot turned down the role due to scheduling conflicts and Gerwig was announced as director and co-writer with Baumbach in 2020. The rest of the cast were announced in early 2022. Filming took place primarily at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden, in England and on the Venice Beach Skatepark in Los Angeles from March to July 2022.
