The latest blockbuster, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” was unexpectedly dropped from cinema schedules in numerous Muslim-majority nations, possibly due to a brief scene showing a transgender-themed poster. Empire Entertainment, the Middle East distributor for the Sony Pictures animated film, has remained silent despite several attempts for clarification.
Although no explicit film bans have been declared, hints suggest that the movie is unlikely to be screened in these regions. An insider, unauthorized to speak publicly, indicated that the film wouldn’t be premiered in the United Arab Emirates due to strict movie censorship for youth audiences.
Saudi Cinema posted a statement on its official Twitter handle with the movie poster, asserting that any film violating the country’s media content regulations and resisting necessary amendments will not receive approval.
The latest Spider-Man film, starring the Marvel Comics character Miles Morales, debuted in U.S. cinemas at the start of June, significantly surpassing its Oscar-winning predecessor’s domestic opening weekend revenue.
Previously set to premiere in the Middle East on June 22, ahead of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, the movie was listed in cinema schedules in nations like Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Egypt until its sudden removal.
Although no official explanations have been provided, the fleeting reference to transgender identity might have provoked objections in these regions, where majorities, influenced by Islamic law or Sharia, often perceive homosexuality and transgender identity as sinful and conflicting with their religious and societal principles.
The movie includes a scene with a transgender flag inscribed “Protect Trans Kids” in Gwen Stacy’s room, another superhero character voiced by Hailee Steinfeld.
Despite not officially banning the film, the UAE, known for its ultramodern city of Dubai and the tallest skyscraper worldwide, has withdrawn certain films from its theatres. Emaar Entertainment, the parent company of UAE cinema firm Reel Cinemas, affirmed that they wouldn’t be showing “Across the Spider-Verse,” attributing the decision to Empire Entertainment, Sony Pictures’ exclusive theatrical distributor in the Middle East.
There were unsuccessful attempts to reach Empire Entertainment, the UAE Ministry of Youth and Culture, and the Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology for comment.
In a similar situation last year, Disney’s “Lightyear” was banned in 13 Muslim-majority countries because of a scene featuring a lesbian kiss. The controversial scene was removed but reinstated after Pixar employees protested Disney’s reaction to Florida law opponents referred to as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
The franchise’s prequel, “Into the Spider-Verse,” enjoyed considerable popularity in the region following its 2018 premiere. Children in Lebanon carry backpacks displaying Miles Morales, the franchise’s main character and first Black Spider-Man, while UAE malls sell action figures from the movie.
“Across the Spider-Verse” is the second part of a trilogy, with the concluding chapter expected to premiere in regional cinemas next year.
Despite the turbulence, the Spider-Man franchise remains highly popular in the region, and many eagerly anticipate the trilogy’s final chapter. It remains to be seen whether the recent developments will alter the future course for films catering to a global audience, where regional cultural and social sensibilities pose a significant challenge. As movie makers strive to champion diversity and inclusivity, navigating these complex landscapes will test their creativity and diplomatic finesse.
