Mubi's decision to call off its second edition of Mubi Fest Istanbul in protest of the local authorities' decision to ban the screening of *Queer* has sparked a significant debate about freedom of expression in Turkey. The festival, which was scheduled to begin on November 7, was set to showcase a range of international films, but the ban on the opening film *Queer* led the streaming platform to cancel the entire event.
Mubi Turkiye issued a statement, expressing their disappointment and frustration over the ban, which was enforced by the Istanbul District Governor’s Office. The authorities cited the film’s "provocative content that could endanger public peace" as the reason for the prohibition. The ban was particularly centered around the graphic nature of the film, which includes explicit scenes and deals with themes of love and sexuality between two men. This move was seen as part of a broader pattern of restrictions on cultural and artistic expression in the country.
Mubi's statement emphasized that the decision to cancel the festival was made in alignment with their commitment to protect freedom of expression and artistic integrity. The platform condemned the censorship, framing it as an unjust restriction on art that not only affected the screening of a single film but also undermined the core purpose of the festival itself—celebrating cultural diversity and providing a space for free artistic expression. By canceling the event, Mubi highlighted their solidarity with artists, filmmakers, and audiences who believe in the importance of upholding these values.
*Queer*, directed by Luca Guadagnino and starring Daniel Craig, had been a highly anticipated film for its depiction of a complex love story between two men in 1950s Mexico. Based on William S. Burroughs' short novel, the film had already gained attention for its bold exploration of intimacy and human connection, as well as its graphic content. The decision to ban it marks a significant moment in the ongoing cultural and political discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ representation in cinema in conservative countries.
This cancellation has drawn attention to the wider issues surrounding censorship in Turkey, where there have been increasing challenges for the arts and freedoms of expression. While *Queer* and Mubi Fest Istanbul were at the center of this particular controversy, the broader implications of such decisions on creative spaces, especially for marginalized groups, have resonated globally. Mubi’s stance, reflecting a commitment to artistic freedom, has prompted solidarity from many within the film community who view this as a critical moment in the ongoing fight for inclusivity and the protection of artistic and cultural freedoms in the face of political interference.
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