Banned 'Queer' Film Sparks Outrage: Director Luca Guadagnino Harshly Criticizes Turkey

Berfin Ceren Meray
Onedio Member
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The recent banning of the film Queer by Turkey’s Kadıköy District Governorate has stirred controversy. The movie, originally set to premiere as the opening feature of the MUBI Fest, was abruptly prohibited, leading to the festival's complete cancellation. In response, acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino has spoken out, delivering harsh criticism toward Turkish authorities. His statements have added fuel to the global debate over censorship and artistic freedom. Here’s everything you need to know about the ban and Guadagnino’s powerful remarks.

The film Queer, starring Daniel Craig and portraying the love story of two gay men, was set to be the opening film of the MUBI FEST, scheduled to begin on November 7.

However, after the Kadıköy District Governor's Office announced a ban on the screening, MUBI, the film's production and distribution company, decided to cancel the film festival in Turkey.

In a statement shared on its social media accounts, MUBI said, "We believe this ban is an intervention that restricts art and freedom of expression."

Following the ban on Queer in Turkey, director Luca Guadagnino also expressed his reaction.

Known for films like Challengers and Call Me by Your Name, the acclaimed director said, 'I don’t know if the Turkish government or the board made this decision by actually watching the film or merely based on what they read about it. In either case, they are helping make the film more of a cult classic. They’re shooting themselves in the foot.'