The highly successful Barbie film is finally set to make its way to the Gulf region, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This news comes amid weeks of speculation regarding whether the record-breaking blockbuster would join the growing list of banned films in the region. The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that the film, which has already grossed over $1 billion worldwide, is scheduled to be released on Thursday.
Initial plans were for the film to be released simultaneously across the region on July 21. However, local censors suggested several minor edits, leading to a delay in the release until August 31. While this decision prevented Gulf cinemas from experiencing the “Barbenheimer” phenomenon, where the film reached the top of box offices in its first week, it allowed both the censors and Warner Bros., the studio behind Barbie, to address any concerns. Although it is unknown if any cuts were made to secure the earlier release date, it seems a resolution has been reached.
At present, the release in the Gulf is limited to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the two biggest box office markets in the region. It is unclear if Barbie will open in other Gulf territories. Typically, other countries in the Gulf follow Saudi Arabia’s decisions on film censorship. However, Kuwait has proven to be the strictest, particularly regarding LGBTQ references. In an unprecedented move, Kuwait recently banned the hit horror movie “Talk To Me” because its star, Zoe Terakes, identifies as nonbinary and trans masculine. This ban does not apply in other Gulf markets, where “Talk To Me” was released without any cuts.
The arrival of Barbie in the Gulf is significant not only due to its popularity but also because it represents a shift in the region’s stance on film content. While past censorship has led to the banning of various films, Barbie’s release signals a more accepting approach towards global cinema. This move is in line with efforts to diversify and modernize the Gulf’s entertainment industry, which has been continuing over the past few years.
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Barbie’s success at the global box office cannot be understated. Having already earned over $1 billion, it is clear that the film resonates with audiences worldwide. Its themes of empowerment, individuality, and acceptance have struck a chord with viewers, including in the Gulf region. With Barbie’s positive message, it is expected to be well-received by audiences in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The film industry in the Gulf has been expanding rapidly, with local filmmakers producing a variety of high-quality films. However, the region has also welcomed international productions with open arms. The inclusion of Barbie further solidifies the Gulf’s position as a global player in the film industry. By embracing diverse stories and perspectives, the region is positioning itself as a hub for creativity and innovation.
The release of Barbie in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is sure to generate excitement among fans of the iconic doll. Moviegoers in these countries will finally have the opportunity to experience the film’s magic on the big screen. The anticipation and desire to see the film have been building for weeks, and now that it is confirmed for release, Barbie fever is expected to sweep through the Gulf.
It is worth noting that the decision to allow Barbie’s release in the Gulf does not represent a total shift in the region’s censorship policies. While progress has been made, there are still certain limitations and boundaries that filmmakers must adhere to. Nevertheless, the fact that Barbie has been given the green light is a step in the right direction and bodes well for the future of the film industry in the Gulf.
In conclusion, the long-awaited release of Barbie in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates marks a significant milestone for the region’s film industry. The popularity and success of the film worldwide, coupled with its positive themes of empowerment and acceptance, make it a highly anticipated release. As the Gulf continues its efforts to modernize and diversify its entertainment sector, the inclusion of Barbie demonstrates a more open and accepting stance towards films from different cultures and perspectives. This move sets the stage for further growth and expansion in the Gulf’s film industry, solidifying its position on the global stage.
