Disney’s live-action version of "Snow White" has been pulled from theaters in Lebanon. The reason? It stars Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen. This decision came from Lebanon’s Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar, following complaints from the country’s media watchdog. The backdrop to this ban involves ongoing tensions, marked by Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah, which have resulted in civilian casualties.
According to a representative from Italia Films, which distributes Disney movies in the region, Gadot has long been on Lebanon’s “Israel boycott list.” Therefore, no films featuring her have been shown in Lebanon. Although there were rumors of a similar ban in Kuwait, the Italia Films representative clarified that "Snow White" is not banned there.
Gadot, a well-known figure due to her roles in "Wonder Woman" and other major films, has been vocal about her support for Israel, especially after the recent violence sparked by Hamas attacks. In a notable speech at the Anti-Defamation League’s summit, she expressed shock at witnessing global reactions that seem to justify violence against Jews.
This ban in Lebanon isn’t an isolated incident. Just two months prior, authorities also prevented Marvel’s "Captain America: Brave New World" from being screened due to actress Shira Haas’s involvement.
These events illustrate a complex interplay between entertainment, politics, and public sentiment in the Middle East. People online have engaged with these topics passionately, showing support for or against various individuals and films. It’s evident that the influence of actors extends beyond the screen and into political discourse, affecting what audiences can watch in different parts of the world.
As of now, the situation raises questions about freedom of expression in art and the impact of political tensions on cultural consumption. For more details on this unfolding story, you can visit Variety.
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Gal Gadot,Lebanon,Snow White