Angelina Jolie has criticised the response of some Middle-Eastern countries, that have decided to ban her Marvel movie ‘Eternals’ on the grounds that it shows a gay couple.
Angelina Jolie Criticises ‘Ignorant’ Middle-Eastern Countries For Banning Her Movie Eternals Over Having Gay Characters
Angelina, for her part, has seen her movie being removed from the following countries: Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. The primary reason is because it showcases a gay couple kissing each other.
The two characters at the centre of this are superhero Phastos, played by Brian Tyree Henry, and Ben, portrayed by Haaz Sleiman. While LGBTQ rights have been increasingly recognised within Europe and America, the same cannot be said of some conservative Middle Eastern countries.
That has left Angelina feeling irked by what she feels to be a lack of progressive behaviour. During an interview with news.com.au, Angelina said: “I’m proud of Marvel for refusing to cut those scenes out.
“I still don’t understand how we live in a world today where there’s still [people who] would not see the family Phastos has and the beauty of that relationship and that love.”
And yet, it is important to bear in mind that Angelina’s comments must be reading in light the following. First of all, homosexuality is still illegal in many parts of the Middle East.
Therefore, there are still going to be a certain subset of people who are against this. Secondly, even if the country wanted to showcase the movie, it could have ended up offending the conservative groups who live within those regions.
Nevertheless, Angelina felt that it was wrong to ban it. She added: “How anybody is angry about it, threatened by it, doesn’t approve or appreciate it is ignorant.”
Regardless of whether you agree with the approaches that certain countries have taken, Angelina felt it was a great shame that the story of her character could not be shown across the world.
Her following comments confirmed as much: “I’m sad for [those audiences].” Angelina’s movie may not have the Middle Eastern audience behind her, but there are still plenty of areas that would welcome it.
With that in mind, her focus should be on pleasing those who are receptive to her work. Let us know what you think in the comment section down below. Remember to stay up to date with the latest news on TheOvertimer. Don’t forget to visit Screen Juicer for great videos, news, and gameplay!
