Banned Movies For Gay Content |Under Lens

We live in a homophobic world where at numerous places homosexuality is no better than sin. But, it is a reality that deserves honor and honest portrayal on screen. In this series, we will find some movies banned for homosexual content.

“But I’m A Cheerleader” was a movie about confused identities, social issues and homosexuality, smartly drifted under the cover of comedy. Romania, Malaysia and few other countries banned the movie. Similarly, “491”, a movie about crime and criminal psychology was banned in native country Sweden, Norway and Malaysia for objectionable h-scenes.

But these two movies were not legends of land- “Fire” and “Brokeback Mountain” are. Fire was an Indian movie made by Deepa Mehta. The movie grabbed instant attraction of Hindu fundamentalists due to two reasons. First it portrayed homosexuality and secondly, the names of the lesbian duo were named after two legendary women of Hindu mythology revered as goddesses. Protest followed by vandalism lead to ban in certain parts of country.

Brokeback Mountain gained cult status as a romantic saga. Based on a novelette, the movie was about two gay friends living normal lives. It was banned in conservative countries like Burma, China, Iran and Malaysia. It achieved great success and went on to become one of the most loved romantic movies. Heath Ledger immortalized himself in the role.

Another brilliant movie banned and appreciated was “Boys Don’t Cry”. It was a story about a girl living like a boy and falling for a girl. Revelation and acceptance were two pinnacles of the story and Hillary Swank received more adulation for this movie than any other movie. Something well deserved.

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh