Basil Joseph’s ‘Maranamass’ Banned in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Over LGBTQ+ Casting
Basil Joseph’s film “Maranamass” was banned in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait due to its casting of an LGBTQ+ actor. This has sparked discussions about the representation and acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities in conservative regions. The film marks the directorial debut of Sivaprasad and is intended as a comedy.
Basil Joseph’s film “Maranamass” has faced significant backlash, leading to its ban in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait due to the inclusion of an LGBTQ+ actor in the cast. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ representation in media across various countries, particularly those with conservative social norms.
“Maranamass” marks the directorial debut of Sivaprasad and is produced by notable figures such as actor Tovino Thomas, Rapheal Pozholiparampil, Tingston Thomas, and Thanzeer Salam. The film is characterized as a comedy entertainer, aligning with the actor’s past works. Filming for “Maranamass” concluded in November 2024.
The banning of Basil Joseph’s “Maranamass” in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait underscores the complex dynamics between global cinema and cultural conservatism. The filmmaker’s choice to cast an LGBTQ+ actor has drawn significant criticism in regions with restrictive policies, illustrating the challenges of promoting diverse narratives in conservative societies.
Original Source: www.timesnownews.com
