Arthouse streamer and distributor MUBI has canceled its international film festival in Istanbul, Turkey, over local censorship concerns just as the annual event was set to begin.
MUBI Fest was scheduled to begin with a screening on Thursday evening. weirdLuca Guadagnino’s LGBTQ+ themed drama starring Daniel Craig. But MUBI decided against holding the event, which was scheduled to take place on November 10.
“A few hours before the start of MUBI Fest Istanbul 2024, we were informed by a notification from the office of the Kadkoy District Governor that the screening of weird, The opening film of the festival was banned. MUBI said on its Instagram page.
Based on the 1950s autobiographical novel by William Burroughs, Craig plays an American expat and heroin addict in Mexico City who encounters an ex-soldier whom he believes is finally It is possible to form a close relationship with someone. .
“We believe this ban is an intrusion that limits art and freedom of expression. Festivals are wonderful places where art and cultural diversity are celebrated, bringing people together. This ban only makes one film the meaning of an entire festival. And doesn’t take away from the goal,” said MUBI.
The arthouse distributor added, “We want to show the right attitude that our audience expects from us and we regret to inform you that we have decided to cancel the entire MUBI Fest Istanbul. We We would like to thank all the artists, audiences and supporters who were planning to attend the festival and who we believe are at least as saddened by this situation as we are, for their understanding and support. In solidarity. In the name of freedom of speech and protection of artistic expression, we will stand on this issue.”
Given by the Venice Film Festival. weird The world premiere screening was followed by a 9-minute standing ovation in which Craig and co-star Drew Starkey and director Guadagnino participated. Jason Schwartzman and Lesley Manville also star in the period romance A24, which travels from Mexico City to the Amazon after the war.
Representatives from the Istanbul governor’s office were not available to comment on the ban decision. weird The drama
Credit : www.hollywoodreporter.com
