Causeway Films and Bankside Films, the producer and sales agent of the horror feature film Talk to Me, have released a joint statement in support of the film’s star, Zoe Terakes. The decision came after it was reported by The Hollywood Reporter that Talk to Me had been banned in Kuwait due to the casting of Terakes, who identifies as nonbinary and trans masculine. While Kuwait has banned many films in the past for including LGBT themes or references, Talk to Me is the first film to be blocked from release solely because of the gender identity of a cast member, which is not even referenced in the film itself.
“We stand in solidarity with Zoe Terakes following the decision by Kuwait to ban the film Talk to Me,” said Causeway and Bankside. “Zoe has made their own statement, which we fully support, and we are immensely proud of their involvement in the film.”
In response to the ban, Terakes expressed their thoughts and emotions about the situation on their Instagram account. “I am a trans actor who happened to get the role. I’m not a theme. I’m a person,” they wrote. “Kuwait has banned this film due to my identity alone. It is targeted and dehumanizing and means to harm us.” Terakes further emphasized the impact of this decision, stating, “Eliminating trans actors on screens will not eliminate trans people (as much as the government of Kuwait wishes it would) but it will eliminate a lot of hope. And hope is such a large part of how we live as marginalized people. It’s how we learn to move through the hatred and the mistreatment and the violence.”
Terakes’ statement sheds light on the broader implications of the ban, highlighting the importance of representation and visibility for marginalized communities. By erasing trans actors from the screen, the Kuwaiti government not only perpetuates harm towards these individuals but also denies hope and validation to queer and trans people in Kuwait. This decision sets a dangerous precedent that undermines the progress made in promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
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It is crucial to recognize the significance of diverse representation in media. When marginalized communities see themselves authentically portrayed onscreen, it sends a powerful message of acceptance and belonging. Visibility creates empathy and understanding, breaking down stereotypes and prejudices. By banning Talk to Me based on the gender identity of one cast member, Kuwait is denying its citizens the opportunity to engage with a film that could potentially challenge misconceptions and foster dialogue.
Artistic expression is a fundamental aspect of societal progress. Films like Talk to Me have the potential to spark conversations about important issues, such as gender identity and acceptance. By censoring these narratives, Kuwait is stifling not only artistic freedom but also the opportunity for its citizens to grow and learn from diverse perspectives.
The banning of Talk to Me also raises concerns about the freedom of expression and the protection of human rights in Kuwait. While every country has the right to establish its own guidelines and regulations, it is essential to balance these restrictions with respect for individual freedoms and the promotion of inclusivity. International dialogue surrounding these issues can help shed light on the importance of diverse representation and the impact that unjust bans can have on marginalized communities.
In standing with Zoe Terakes and supporting their statement, Causeway Films and Bankside Films demonstrate their commitment to creating an inclusive and accepting industry. By publicly addressing the ban and expressing their pride in Terakes’ involvement in the film, the production and sales companies send a message of support not only to Terakes but also to the larger queer and trans community.
While the ban on Talk to Me remains in place in Kuwait, the film’s cast, crew, and supporters will continue to advocate for its release and raise awareness about the importance of representation in cinema. It is through these collective efforts that progress can be made in challenging discriminatory practices and fostering a more inclusive society.
Talk to Me serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the role that films can play in advancing social change. By amplifying diverse voices and experiences, cinema has the capacity to challenge norms, bridge gaps, and inspire empathy. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all stories, regardless of the identities of those involved, are given a platform to be heard and appreciated.
