UAE blocks 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' release for trans-inclusive content

Film failed to meet censorship requirements

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse has been met with a roadblock in its release plans, as the film will not be shown in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reports Variety. This is due to the film failing to meet the country's strict censorship requirements. Variety has confirmed that the ban comes just a week before the film's intended release date in the region, which was scheduled for June 22.

One of the concerns that led to the ban was a scene featuring a background poster depicting the transgender flag and the text 'Protect Trans Lives.' This inclusion, promoting transgender rights and visibility, raised objections and contributed to the film's disapproval by the UAE's censorship board.

The decision to ban Across the Spider-Verse is an unexpected turn, considering that its predecessor, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, was granted a local release in the UAE and achieved considerable success, grossing $1.7 million in the territory. However, it remains uncertain whether the sequel will also face a ban in Saudi Arabia, as the censorship requirements of the two countries often align.

The film has garnered attention not only for its censorship issues but also for its portrayal of Gwen Stacy, voiced by Hailee Steinfeld. Some viewers have interpreted Gwen's character as being trans-coded, suggesting that she represents a transgender identity. Throughout the movie, Gwen conceals her true identity from her father, and scenes set in her dimension prominently feature the colours of the transgender flag. However, it is important to note that Gwen's transgender identity is not explicitly confirmed or addressed in the film.

This is not an isolated incident, as the UAE has a history of censoring films promoting queer content. Last year, Disney and Pixar's Lightyear faced a similar fate when it was not released in the country due to a scene depicting a kiss between two queer space rangers. The ban on Lightyear extended to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Malaysia as well.

The exclusion of Across the Spider-Verse from the UAE market highlights certain limitations placed on artistic expression and representation in the region. While film censorship is not uncommon in the UAE, the ban serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by filmmakers aiming to promote diversity and inclusion.

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