Spherex inspires a more tolerant and harmonious world, one story at a time.

France , Entertainment Business , Globalization , CNC

Your AI Is Great, But Where's The Creative Magic?

In today's advertising landscape, where data, algorithms, and artificial intelligence reign supreme, I fear that the industry is less and less designed for, or interested in, developing strong creative ideas. Marketers seem to forget that a strong creative backbone can set a brand apart and seed it into the minds of its target audience.

Media Post | 16-May-25

France is now a go-to shooting destination to replicate territories such as Hollywood, Mexico and Iraq

No longer just a place to capture Postcard Paris, France has become a one-stop shop to shoot other global locations — from Hollywood and New York to Italy, Spain, Jordan, Baghdad and beyond — with many productions even opting to come for VFX work alone.

Screen Daily | 16-May-25

Nigeria , YouTube , TikTok , Censorship , Regulation , NFVCB

Film board to censor over 3-minute content on YouTube, TikTok

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has announced that video uploads longer than three minutes on YouTube and TikTok will undergo censorship review as part of efforts to regulate online platforms

Daily Trust | 15-May-25

Parks: U.S. Ad-Supported SVOD Subscriptions to Top 278M by 2029

82% of viewers see streaming ads through a combination of free streaming services, ad-based tiers of subscription streaming services, and vMVPD services that feature ads as part of their live/linear bundles of channels

TV Tech | 14-May-25

Aging Audiences Are Forcing TV To Rethink Content For Everyone

Aging societies around the world will not only impact welfare systems but the TV & broadcast Industry as well. It is a dramatic demographic shift over the next 15 years, that we must face with innovation and a new perspective on aging, and how we service this audience segment

TVREV | 14-May-25

Content Is Dead. Distribution Is the New King—Here’s Proof

It used to be simple: create great content, and the audience would come. But in 2025, that approach no longer works. We’re now in a world flooded with blogs, videos, reels, newsletters, and carousels. Attention is fragmented, and competition for eyeballs has never been fiercer. To win today, creating content is just the starting point. If you’re not actively distributing it, you’re invisible

iTMunch | 14-May-25

US , Meta , Entertainment Business , Defamation

Free TV is booming

"People are abandoning linear. Subscription services have sort of reached saturation. People are really looking for premium content and experience that's super lean back, frictionless, easy to access and at no cost to them."

Axios | 13-May-25

Jamie Lee Curtis just wanted an AI ad removed, not to become the ‘poster child of internet fakery’

Jamie Lee Curtis didn’t expect to be at the forefront of the artificial intelligence debate in Hollywood. But she didn’t have a choice.

Los Angeles Times | 13-May-25

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , Globalization , NFVCB

Initiative empowers creatives to conquer international film market

The initiative, inaugurated recently, aims to equip local professionals with crucial expertise in the intricate world of international film and television sales, aggregation, licensing, and distribution.

The Sun | 12-May-25

UK , Regulation

Global TV & film bodies unite in support of local regulation

More than 100 screen organisations sign letter highlighting ’increasingly aggressive attempts’ to dismantle local protections

Broadcast Now | 12-May-25

UK , Germany , Entertainment Business , Backlash , Subs and Dubs

How Europe’s Film and TV Dubbers Are Leading the Fight Against AI

Dubbing artists across Europe are raising alarms about the threat AI poses to their livelihoods, accusing studios of using their voices without consent to train synthetic dubbing systems. As the debate intensifies, actors and unions in Germany, France, Italy, and Spain are pushing back with petitions, viral campaigns, and new contracts to protect their rights

The Hollywood Reporter | 11-May-25

France , Government , Regulation

Trump Film Tariffs Plan Prompts Appeal From Global Industry Organizations Ahead of Cannes Film Festival

A group of more than 100 film and TV organisations from around the world launched an appeal to European Union institutions and global governments Monday – on the eve of the Cannes Film Festival kickoff – calling on them to support the indie industry ecosystem following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announced plan to impose tariffs on film imports.

Variety | 11-May-25

India , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , CBFC

When OTTs Act Like CBFC: Filmmakers Losing Hope!

When OTT platforms entered the Indian market, they promised to boost independent films, emerging artists, and regional cinema. However, their arrival has turned out to be yet another form of censorship.

M9 News | 11-May-25

UK , Entertainment Business

Entertainment 2.0: The Impact of Technology on How We Play, Watch, and Listen

In the past few decades, technology has redefined nearly every aspect of our lives, including how we entertain ourselves. What once required physical presence, fixed environments or restricted viewing has gradually turned into a global, 360-degree, bespoke experience. From games to videos, music, and movies technology has changed the face of entertainment furnishing with innovations that entertain in ways that are unique and interactive

Our Culture | 10-May-25

UK , Government , Regulation

Ban this foreign filth! Can cinema really threaten national security?

Dressing up soft power incursions as hard power threats may, at times, seem irresistible, but there’s a wide gulf between “perceived national security threats” and “actual national security threats”.

The Guardian | 9-May-25

How creators are using generative AI in podcasts, videos and newsletters — and what advertisers think about it

As generative artificial intelligence improves, creators are growing more confident using it to make audience-facing content.For content creators of all types, generative AI use is on the rise. In March, a survey of content professionals by Kontent.AI found that 74 percent use AI tools on a weekly basis, with 39 percent using them daily. Now, digital creators across platforms such as YouTube and Spotify are joining this growing trend to further scale their content.

Digiday | 9-May-25

India , Censorship , Politics

‘A perfect storm’: Can networks help advertisers weather uncertainty?

…hesitancy in the market — prompted by President Donald Trump’s tariffs — could lead to shorter-term commitments and more spend in the scatter market. As a result, ad budgets could be reallocated to digital channels that invite programmatic real-time bidding, like connected TV (CTV).

The Current | 8-May-25

India Orders Immediate Ban on Pakistani Content Across Platforms Amid Escalating Cross-Border Tensions

Amidst mounting diplomatic and military tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has issued a formal advisory ordering all over-the-top (OTT) platforms and digital streaming services to take down content originating from Pakistan with immediate effect.

Variety | 8-May-25

The Future of Media Is Bright and More Evenly Distributed

How GenAI could rebuild entertaiment's hollowed-out center with creator-driven content that combines Hollywood production values with social media authenticity

Newsweek | 8-May-25

Tariffs Are Changing the Dealmaking Landscape. CEOs Need to Prepare.

If dealmaking is the corporate world’s superpower, tariffs are its kryptonite. Every salvo, countermeasure, and temporary compromise in the evolving tariff landscape triggers a new wave of macroeconomic uncertainty, upending business plans.

BCG | 8-May-25

Media Play News | 7-May-25

Study: Majority of U.S. TV Consumers Choose Streaming First

About 70% of U.S. adults select a streaming service as their default TV viewing choice, ahead of cable, satellite and broadcast, according to new data from Adtaxi, an online marketing company.

US , Disney+ , Globalization , Localization , Streaming Platforms

Disney to Boost Spending on Film and TV In Markets Outside the U.S. to Grow Streaming Subscribers

Bob Iger told analysts the major studio will create more original local and regional content to target markets outside the United States and drive global platform expansion.

The Hollywood Reporter | 7-May-25

UK , Government , Regulation , Streaming Platforms

Streamer rights & tax incentives emerge in Jon Voight draft plan

US producers could hold onto more rights in streamer deals, according to leaked version of ‘Hollywood ambassador’s’ plan

Broadcast Now | 7-May-25

The Hollywood Reporter | 7-May-25

Does TV Get a Free Pass in Trump’s Grand Tariff Plan to Save Hollywood?

Trump and his White House spokesperson keep talking about foreign films, but there are way more internationally produced television series consumed by Americans.

UK , Government , Regulation , Streaming Platforms

Trump tariff ‘uncertainty’ could hit commissioning

US president’s comments could affect behaviour of streaming giants and financiers

Broadcast Now | 6-May-25

US , Ratings , MPAA

Toxic Avenger will release unrated in the US

Given the success Cineverse had with the Terrifier films, it’s clear that the studio knows exactly how to successfully sell an ultra-violent, offbeat B-movie to a niche audience. When the studio acquired the rights to Toxic Avenger, it was suggested that Cineverse would – as it did with Terrifier 3 – skip the MPAA rating altogether and release it as an unrated film. Thanks to World Of Reel, we now know that that is indeed the plan and that the film will release ‘unrated and uncut’.

Film Stories | 6-May-25

US , Netflix , Streaming Platforms

Learning From Netflix: Why Your Next Ad Should Be a Story-World

According to Accenture, 61% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands offering immersive experiences. As we enter the era of spatial computing with increasingly rich media opportunities, it's time to stop thinking in banner ads and start designing rabbit holes worth falling into.

Media Post | 5-May-25

UK , Government , Regulation

100% Tax: Trump’s Disastrous Blow to Indian Films

This is nothing short of a devastating blow for Indian cinema, particularly to Telugu distributors in the U.S.

M9 News | 5-May-25

Trump called for 100% tariff on foreign films a day after Jon Voight proposed ‘limited’ tariffs

Actor was assigned by Trump to come up with a plan to save Hollywood, but his proposal only included tariffs ‘in certain limited circumstances’

The Guardian | 5-May-25

India , Censorship

Sonu Nigam faces possible ban from Kannada film industry after row over his controversial remarks on language

Singer Sonu Nigam may be facing a ban from the Kannada film industry after reactions to his statement on Kannada at a recent concert went against him.

Hindustan TImes | 5-May-25

UK , Government , Regulation

Trump considering 100% tariffs on movies not made in the US

Donald Trump says he will hit films made in foreign countries with 100% tariffs, as he ramps up trade disputes with nations around the world.

BBC | 5-May-25

India , Streaming Platforms , Localization

Linear TV isn’t dead, it’s evolving: Uday Shankar

JioStar Vice Chairman Uday Shankar spotlighted India’s evolving media landscape. He emphasised the enduring power of linear TV, the need for India-rooted content with global appeal, and over $10 billion in content investment. Shankar called for bold innovation, local storytelling, and India-first strategies to drive long-term growth.

Brand Equity | 3-May-25

Canada , Culture , Entertainment Business

How Canadian film archives are fighting to save nearly forgotten culture

Preserving Canada’s audio-visual history relies on these archives, but those who run them say they lack funding, resources and postsecondary programs to bring in new archivists

The Globe and Mail | 3-May-25

US , Culture , Entertainment Business

David Banner Reveals How Brands Can Crack the Cultural Code

The Grammy-nominated artist and CEO spoke at ADWEEK House Miami about cultural representation and brand relevancy

Adweek | 1-May-25

The Hollywood Reporter | 1-May-25

Streaming Is Now Just As Crowded With Ads As Old School TV

A new Nielsen report finds that more than 70 percent of all viewing in the first quarter of 2025 came on ad-supported platforms.

India , YouTube , Censorship , Politics

India bans Pakistani drama channels on YouTube citing national security concerns

The crackdown has also extended to social media, with multiple Pakistani celebrities finding their Instagram accounts inaccessible in India.

The News Minute | 30-Apr-25

South Korea , YouTube , Culture , Entertainment Business

Korea appoints 2,800 global content creators to promote culture, tourism

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism appointed nearly 2,800 foreign content creators to promote Korean culture abroad through videos and articles.

The Korea Times | 29-Apr-25

US , Culture , Entertainment Business

Breaking Free From Hollywood’s Grip

The world doesn’t need another Hollywood. It needs something better: a media landscape that reflects the richness of its cultures, the uniqueness of its audiences, and the depth of its stories.

TVREV | 29-Apr-25

India , Regulation , Streaming Platforms , Sexuality , Politics

Are Imported TV Shows Affected By A Tariff-Dominated Marketplace?

Products shipped into the U.S. are being tariffed -- with consumers effectively being taxed. Does that include TV shows -- for example, TV programs produced in Mexico? If you were only worried about avocados, cars, some automotive parts, electronics, and medical instruments, consider the broader entertainment view for a moment.

Media Post | 29-Apr-25

SC Issues Notice to OTT Platforms and Government on Plea to Regulate Sexually Explicit Content

The Supreme Court of India has issued notices to OTT platforms and the central government following a plea filed by petitioners seeking the formation of a new body, the National Content Control Authority, to prohibit sexually explicit content on OTT and social media platforms.

MediaNama | 29-Apr-25

UAE , Globalization , Culture , Streaming Platforms

Role of strategic distribution in advancing new-age content

Dubai Media Inc's Manoj Mathew discusses how the MENA region's content trajectory towards global recognition promises encouraging prospects.

Campaign Middle East | 28-Apr-25

India , Backlash , Politics

Completely Fake': Aamir Khan Denies Involvement In Guru Nanak Biopic After Fake AI-Generated Teaser Sparks Controversy

Aamir Khan denied involvement in a fake AI-generated Guru Nanak biopic teaser, calling it disrespectful, as controversy and political complaints erupted over the misleading video.

ETV Bharat | 28-Apr-25

US , Regulation

Beyond Content: Why Monetization Governance Is The Next Frontier Of Tech Policy

Some images were clearly from past disasters, in places like Turkey or Syria. Others were more perplexing, combining typical Burmese features and architecture in ways that didn’t quite make sense. One photo superimposed historical temples typically found in a plain in the center of Myanmar over an urban setting. On second look, it was AI-generated.

Tech Policy | 28-Apr-25

UK , Culture , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

Sharpest Weapon': Europe Lays Plans to Hobble Trump-Era Hollywood

Buy fewer Teslas and U.S. shows, and more Peugeots and European series!' rails one French producer as culture-as-strategy takes feverish hold

Substack | 28-Apr-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Profanity

CBFC directs ‘Thunderbolts’ distributors to mute swear words for India release

The CBFC’s intervention was limited to audio changes — no visual cuts were mandated, meaning the film’s action sequences remain intact

The Hindu | 28-Apr-25

Singapore , Facebook , Censorship , IMDA , Politics

IMDA blocks Facebook posts from Malaysian politicians ahead of general elections

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has identified foreign attempts to influence Singapore’s General Elections (GE) this year, with several online election advertisements (OEA) removed following a directive from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA).

Marketing-Interactive | 28-Apr-25

Pakistan , Censorship , Government , Politics

Pakistan reacts to India’s ban on Fawad Khan’s film

India has banned the release of Fawad Khan’s movie Abir Gulaal, causing a stir in Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Pakistani filmmaker Nabeel Qureshi responded by urging the government to require Pakistani actors to get a no-objection certificate (NoC) before signing Indian projects.

Daily Times | 27-Apr-25

India , Censorship

Pakistani actor Fawad Khan's 'Abir Gulaal' not to release in India

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reiterated its directive to ban Pakistani artists. They called for a complete non-cooperation with all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry.

Deccan Herald | 24-Apr-25

Inside the Magic | 24-Apr-25

Latinx Viewers Are Avid Streamers and More Likely to Be Pay TV Subscribers

Demographic shows higher subscription rates for pay TV, SVOD and vMVPD services and is more likely to use FAST channels than the general population, per Horowitz Research

TV Tech | 24-Apr-25

US , Censorship

Disney Quietly Edits ‘Aladdin,’ ‘Bluey,’ and More To Appease Modern Audiences

Disney’s taken multiple approaches to censoring its content. In select countries with different moral guidelines, some films have been erased from the platform entirely.

India , Backlash , Censorship

India pulls plug on Fawad Khan-Vaani Kapoor’s film Abir Gulaal after Pahalgam attack

Abir Gulaal, a film starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor was set to release May 9, but a diplomatic backlash amid Pahalgam attack has stalled plans.

The Indian Express | 24-Apr-25

US , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

Blockbusters, indie creators and social platforms reshape gaming in 2025

The economics of digital entertainment are being reshaped by independent creators, global social platforms, and the biggest technology companies. Studios and streamers may need to bulk up to compete.

VentureBeat | 24-Apr-25

US , YouTube , Streaming Platforms

YouTube, at 20, Has Hosted 20 Billion Videos and Launched Superstars. It Wants More—Including Some Prestige

Inside the platform that gave us Hot Ones, Michelle Khare, Chicken Shop Date, and Good Mythical Morning—not to mention Justin Bieber and MrBeast—as it embraces bingeability and more.

Vanity Fair | 23-Apr-25

France , Entertainment Business , CNC , Sexism , Sexual Violence

Cinema, Audiovisual: Contractual and Regulatory Impacts of Measures Against Sexual Violence

Following extensive public hearings and considerable media attention, the commission of inquiry has published a report providing an overview of violence and working conditions in the cultural and creative industries, with a particular focus on the cinema and audiovisual sectors. The report includes a series of recommendations aimed at strengthening the legal and contractual framework to prevent and address sexist and sexual violence (referred to as VHSS in the French context).

Nomos Paris | 22-Apr-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Discrimination

Erasing Resistance: How the CBFC is censoring films that challenge caste and state power

From Phule to Punjab '95, the Central Board of Film Certification is curating history by muting anti-caste voices and sanitising state violence — revealing a disturbing bias in what stories are allowed to be told

Sabrang | 22-Apr-25

UK , Entertainment Business

Sky News journalists deepfaked into advertising illegal hidden casinos

We've been deepfaked, the email read. It dropped into my inbox from a colleague, with a link to a low-quality video on Facebook.

Sky News | 22-Apr-25

US , Localization , Streaming Platforms , Culture

Global Reach, Local Appeal: Mastering Content Localization for Streaming Platforms

Successful localization begins with a strong technical foundation that enables delivery of localized content at scale

TV Tech | 21-Apr-25

Media Play News | 21-Apr-25

Hub Study: Sports Fans Increasingly Find Streaming Fragmentation a Hassle

While the majority of sports fans would consider a new subscription to watch their sport, sports fans are increasingly finding streaming fragmentation a hassle, according to a new study from Hub.

US , Entertainment Business , Regulation

TV or Digital: What’s winning global audiences?

The rise of digital platforms and streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and TikTok has revolutionized content consumption by offering on-demand entertainment that fits our mobile lifestyles.

Nielsen | 21-Apr-25

Fully "Democratized" AI Creativity Sounds Nice. Until It Isn't …

"Delete All IP Law," Say Many In Silicon Valley. But What Happens Then?

The Brain | 21-Apr-25

India , Backlash , Racism

Calls grow to ban Bollywood film ‘Jaat’ over depiction of Tamil Eelam Struggle

Political voices across Tamil Nadu have condemned the newly released Bollywood film Jaat, starring Sunny Deol, over its portrayal of a fictional militant group resembling the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

Tamil Guardian | 21-Apr-25

US , Meta , Instagram , Ratings

Meta is ramping up its AI-driven age detection

Meta is expanding how it uses AI to detect teens on Instagram — and, in some cases, will begin overriding account settings.

The Verge | 21-Apr-25

US , Localization , Streaming Platforms , Culture

Global Reach, Local Appeal: Mastering Content Localization for Streaming Platforms

Successful localization begins with a strong technical foundation that enables delivery of localized content at scale.

TV Tech | 21-Apr-25

China , New Release

‘Ne Zha 2’ English Dub Sets Sights on Global Market: ‘The Returns Could Be Enormous’

Chinese animation blockbuster “Ne Zha 2” continues to shatter records as distributors prepare an English-dubbed version with “well-known” voice talent, setting the stage for a broader international push following its unprecedented local success.

Variety | 20-Apr-25

Thailand , Regulation , Government

New bill to deregulate film industry

This new law will replace state control with a modern, self-regulating system," said Ms Sudawan. We are now focusing on promotion, not restrictions." If passed, the bill will also establish two new bodies: the National Film Industry Promotion Committee and the Film Industry Council of Thailand.

BangKok Post | 18-Apr-25

France , Regulation , Streaming Platforms

Jacques Audiard, Audrey Diwan Among French Filmmakers Calling Out U.S. Directors’ Attack on European Regulations: ‘Our Policies Should Not Serve as Scapegoats’

French filmmakers have called out the offensive led by the American film community against EU regulations, including the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMS), which forces foreign streaming services to invest a portion of their revenues into local productions.

Variety | 18-Apr-25

US , Ratings , Regulation , Government

Age Verification Rules Intensify: Key Implications for Developers and App Stores

In the past year there has been a clear trend toward stricter online child protection laws, particularly in the US where a wave of multiple states has floated age-verification bills, and lawmakers at the federal level have introduced several bills to address social media and app age gating.

Lexology | 17-Apr-25

Lebanon , Censorship , Government

‘Snow White’ Banned in Lebanon Due to Gal Gadot Being on Country’s ‘Israel Boycott List

Disney’s live-action “Snow White” has been banned from playing in movie theaters in Lebanon due to the presence in the film of Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who plays the role of the Evil Queen.

Variety | 16-Apr-25

Hungary , Censorship , Regulation , Government , LGBTQ

Hungary Implemented Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws, but Hollywood Probably Won’t Care

Both Europe’s most right-wing nation and its second hottest destination for international shoots, Hungary has shocked the world with its recent ban on LGBTQ+ public events. But Hollywood is not yet ready to give up on the country’s generous tax incentives.

Variety | 16-Apr-25

Australia , Netflix , Streaming Platforms

Netflix tests natural language AI search engine

The solution has received a limited rollout across some of the company’s subscribers using iOS devices in Australia and New Zealand.

TVB Europe | 15-Apr-25

Ghana , Classification , Regulation , NFA

Film classification submissions will require producer licence from 1 May, says NFA

The new directive is in line with the Development and Classification of Film Act, 2016 (Act 935), which mandates that all audio-visual content intended for public exhibition in Ghana

Asaase Radio | 14-Apr-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Politics , Discrimination

CBFC’s tryst with caste-based films raises bigger questions: Storytelling or sanitisation?

Censorship or narrative control? What the CBFC’s objections to films like Santosh and Phule say about India’s relationship with honest storytelling.

Social Ketchup | 13-Apr-25

Nigeria , Censorship , KSCB

Rapper 442 alleges loss of multimillion deals for being declared wanted by Censorship board

Controversial Hausa rapper, Abdulkarim Mubarak, popularly known as Mr 442, has alleged that he has lost several musical concert deals as a result of being declared wanted by the Kano State Censorship Board.

Daily Trust | 13-Apr-25

Ireland , Ratings , Classification , IFCO , Violence , Minor Safety

Should cinema entry and age ratings get more strict?

Where does the responsibility lie? Is it up to the cinema to enforce the classification, or the parent/guardian who's in charge?

Newstalk | 11-Apr-25

Ireland , Backlash , IFCO , Sexual Violence , Violence

Transforming FAST: Fresher Programs, Exclusive Originals?

Could FAST channels evolve into big-time destinations for viewers? Newer programs and even exclusive content will be major lures.

Media Post | 11-Apr-25

Toddlers 'watching films featuring rape, decapitation and murder in Irish cinemas'

The Irish Film Classification Office (IFCO) has received complaints of children as young as three being admitted to movies in Limerick and Dublin that featured 'beheadings and throat-cutting'

Irish Mirror | 10-Apr-25

India , Censorship , Culture , LGBTQ

Basil Joseph’s ‘Maranamass’ banned in Saudi Arabia over queer actor; Scenes cut for Kuwait release

Saudi Arabia reportedly banned the film due to a queer actor in the cast. Kuwait cleared it only after editing out scenes featuring the actor, adhering to local censor demands.

Times Entertainment | 10-Apr-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Profanity , Smoking

40% Scenes In Sunny Deol’s Jaat Chopped By CBFC? Here's What We Know

Jaat required alterations across 22 scenes. As a result of these edits, 2 minutes and 6 seconds of footage were removed, replaced by suitable visuals amounting to 1 minute and 37 seconds.

Mashable | 10-Apr-25

China , Entertainment Business , Government

China to ‘Moderately Reduce’ U.S. Film Imports After Latest Round of Trump Tariffs

The China Film Administration has confirmed that it will cut back on the import of U.S. films to the Middle Kingdom.

Variety | 10-Apr-25

AI and the tradition of content shaming

The knee-jerk rejection of AI often comes from an outdated belief that value is tied solely to manual effort rather than outcomes.

Brand Equity | 10-Apr-25

US , YouTube , Regulation , Censorship

Cutting back: How the Central Board of Film Certification’s Censorship Panders Majoritarian Sensibilities

Heavy cuts in the recent Malayalam film Empuraan, which depicted the Gujarat riots, and the denial of certification to the internationally acclaimed film Santosh denote the hold of political and revisionist interventions in the CBFC.

NewsClick | 9-Apr-25

YouTube Endorses No Fakes Act, as Lawmakers Renew Push to Outlaw Unauthorized AI Clones

YouTube endorsed a ban on AI “deepfakes” on Wednesday, as lawmakers renewed efforts to stamp out unauthorized digital clones of people’s voices and images.

Variety | 9-Apr-25

India , Censorship , Backlash , CBFC , Discrimination

Censor Board asks ‘Phule’ makers to drop caste terms after objections from Brahmin groups; release pushed

Film was earlier set for April 11 release; now postponed to April 21 after Brahmin group alleges 'one-sided portrayal'

The New Indian Express | 9-Apr-25

UK , Entertainment Business , Government

Spelling out what Trump’s tariffs could mean for TV

The longer answer is that the TV industry is still likely to be hit hard by the indirect impact of the tariffs, if they stay in place.

Broadcast Now | 9-Apr-25

UK , Entertainment Business , Government

Ad execs are now working as Trump tariff policy translators for advertisers

Unlike past macroeconomic crises, this one put marketers at the center. The ripple effects hit every part of their remit: media budgets, pricing models, procurement timelines. The usual buffers between policy and marketing disappeared overnight.

Digiday | 9-Apr-25

US , Government , Regulation , Misrepresentation

Lawmakers Reintroduce Bill To Regulate Use Of AI Digital Replicas And Limit Deepfakes

Bipartisan groups of federal lawmakers have reintroduced the "NO FAKES Act," which would regulate the use of AI for digital replicas and deepfakes. The legislation, which has gained support from tech giants and the entertainment industry, empowers individuals to control their digital likeness, with rights extending 70 years post-mortem. The bill failed to advance in Congress last year over First Amendment concerns

Deadline | 9-Apr-25

UK , Regulation , OfCom

The Online Safety Act: Child Access Duties for the Gaming Industry

Under the UK Online Safety Act 2023 (OSA), a wide range of online services are subject to extensive new obligations related to illegal content and content harmful to children.

Cooley | 9-Apr-25

China , Censorship , Government

AI Reshaping Broadcasting: Takeaways from NAB Show 2025

AI's transformative role in broadcasting has been a key focus at this year's NAB Show, with industry leaders discussing its impact on local journalism, marketing and operations.

Radio Ink | 8-Apr-25

Could Trump’s Tariffs Lead to China Banning Hollywood Films?

China is reportedly considering a slate of retaliatory measures against the U.S. that could potentially devastate Hollywood‘s access to the world’s second-largest box office.

Variety | 8-Apr-25

France , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

French Production Reached Near Record in 2024, While Streamers’ Financing Skyrocketed by 60%

French production reached a second all-time record with 309 movies produced in 2024, according to an annual report unveiled by the National Film Board on Tuesday.

Variety | 8-Apr-25

Iran , Regulation , Obscenity , Alcohol

Iran gives 14-month jail terms to film directors on propaganda charges

The directors of the acclaimed Iranian film My Favorite Cake have each been sentenced to 14 months behind bars on charges of propaganda against the Islamic Republic.

Iran International | 7-Apr-25

India , YouTube , Regulation , Obscenity

Santosh and censorship

The latest movie to face this kind of censorship is Sandhya Suri’s Santosh, which was screened at the Cannes Film Festival last May to huge applause and acclaim.

The Statesman | 5-Apr-25

YouTuber Samay Raina appears before Assam Police over case for 'promoting obscenity'

YouTuber Samay Raina on Saturday appeared before the Assam Police here in connection with a case filed against him and four others for allegedly promoting obscenity on a publicly accessible online show.

Hindustan TImes | 5-Apr-25

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , NFVCB

Filmmaker seeks tech solution for Nollywood

Renowned Nigerian filmmaker, Niyi Akinmolayan, has proposed a tech solution for revolutionalising Nollywood, which according to him runs on passion and hope with little structure.

Guardian | 4-Apr-25

Australia , Streaming Platforms , Government

Trump Tariffs: Australia Holds Firm on Local Content Quotas Despite U.S. Trade Pressures

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has doubled down on the government’s commitment to implement local content quotas for streaming platforms, despite mounting pressure from the U.S. amid escalating trade tensions.

Variety | 3-Apr-25

US , Localization , Subs and Dubs

AI And Localization: Shaping The Future Of Global Communication

In today’s global marketplace, consumers expect personalized, locally relevant content that resonates with their culture and language. Businesses that fail to meet this demand risk losing engagement, trust and, ultimately, market share.

Forbes | 3-Apr-25

US , Roku , Entertainment Business

Media and Entertainment: Tariffs Won’t Cause Much Direct Harm, but Resulting Economic Weakness Could

Tariffs specifically won’t have much impact on companies’ costs in this industry. Other than Roku, most don’t rely much or at all on selling goods. However, most do rely directly on consumer spending, so economic weakness that results from the tariffs could impede business.

Morningstar | 3-Apr-25

US , Entertainment Business , MPA

Global TV industry braces for Trump trade war

How and if the TV and film industry will be targeted is not yet clear. But it seems only a matter of time before filmmakers worldwide are caught up in the trade war in some form.

Broadcast Now | 2-Apr-25

The Hollywood Reporter | 2-Apr-25

Trump Tariffs Timing Couldn’t Be Worse for Hollywood

Studios will begin their upfront talks with media buyers in the coming weeks — with billions of dollars at stake — right as major advertising buyers are reexamining their budgets amid global economic uncertainty.

Bollywood Hungama | 1-Apr-25

COMPLETE list of 24 cuts imposed by CBFC in L2 Empuraan after controversy; 2002 reference removed; Baba Bajrangi’s name changed to Baldev

This development shocked the industry as it was the CBFC that passed the film in the first place and didn’t find the said scenes objectionable then. Nevertheless, the makers decided to make these changes to douse the controversy.

US , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

Wurl: The CTV Trends Report

Wurl’s March 2025 CTV Trends Report takes the pulse of the connected TV space and uncovers how both viewer behavior and advertiser strategies are evolving as the market matures.

TVREV | 31-Mar-25

US , Ratings

In the wake of 'Terrifier 3' and 'Deadpool,' do movie ratings matter?

Beware, lovers of movie ratings: They might be next on Art the Clown's victims list.

USA Today | 31-Mar-25

Australia , HBO Max , Streaming Platforms , Globalization

Warner Bros. Discovery’s JB Perrette Charts Max Expansion Path as Platform Launches in Australia: ‘The Winners in This Streaming Game Are Going to Be Big-Scaled, Global Players’

Warner Bros. Discovery's strategic vision for Max involves building a global streaming powerhouse that combines international and local content.

Variety | 31-Mar-25

India , Censorship , Government , CBFC , Politics

Censorship and the question of artistic freedom

The recent controversy surrounding the malayalam movie L2: Empuraan, the sequel to Lucifer, has once again brought into focus the fraught relationship between Indian cinema and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

The Times of India | 31-Mar-25

India , Censorship , Regulation , CBFC , Politics

Censorship and the question of artistic freedom

The debate is not just about one film—it is about the fundamental distinction between censorship and certification, and the broader implications of excessive state intervention in artistic expression.

The Times of India | 31-Mar-25

The New Indian Express | 30-Mar-25

Empuraan to undergo 17 cuts: Producers decide to make changes in film following right-wing fire

Earlier, on Saturday, the producer of the film, Gokulam Gopalan had said that corrective steps will be taken if the film has hurt anyone's sentiments.

UK , Streaming Platforms

Streaming algorithms edge out word-of-mouth

More viewers now trust personalised recommendations from streaming platforms over tips from friends and family, according to Ampere Analysis.

Advanced Television | 29-Mar-25

India , Censorship , Government , Discrimination , Sexual Violence

Why has CBFC blocked UK's Oscar entry Santosh from release in India?

Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has refused certification for theatrical release to Santosh by Sandhya Suri over concerns regarding the film's portrayal of the Indian police.

Business Standard | 27-Mar-25

France , Streaming Platforms , Regulation , CNC

Unpacking France’s evolving relationship with US streamers

France’s commitment to its creative industries is by no means new, but its reaction to the influx of global streamers has still caused heads to turn across Europe and beyond.

Broadcast Now | 27-Mar-25

India , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

Digital Surges Ahead as India’s Media and Entertainment Sector Hits $29 Billion, Annual FICCI-EY Report Reveals

Titled ‘Shape the Future: Indian Media and Entertainment is Scripting a New Story,’ the report reveals that digital media overtook television for the first time, becoming the industry’s largest segment and accounting for 32% of total revenue, ending a two-decade reign by TV.

Variety | 27-Mar-25

US , Localization

Generative AI Takes Localization from Cost Center to Growth Driver

At SlatorCon Remote March 2025, panelists share how GenAI can help businesses take localization from cost center to growth driver.

Slator | 27-Mar-25

India , JioHotstar , Streaming Platforms

JioHotstar Reaches 100 Million Subscribers, Transforming India’s Streaming Market

The milestone underscores the platform’s successful strategy in converting streaming services from a premium offering to an essential component of daily media consumption for many Indian viewers.

Variety | 26-Mar-25

US , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

Deloitte: Nearly 50% of Consumers Say SVOD Services Too Expensive, Prefer Social Media Content to TV Shows, Movies

A price hike of $5 would be likely to make the majority (60%) of consumers cancel their favorite service.

Media Play News | 26-Mar-25

US , Entertainment Business , Government , LGBTQ

Trump's FCC says it will start investigating Disney, too

Brendan Carr, chairman of the FCC, said he plans to investigate Disney's DEI practices after similar announcements about Comcast and Verizon.

Business Insider | 26-Mar-25

US , Entertainment Business , Regulation

California State Senators Call for 35% Tax Credit for All Los Angeles Productions, Aim to Add Animation and Sitcoms

California lawmakers behind one of the two bills intended to expand the state’s film and TV tax incentive program have unveiled the legislation’s full language, which includes calls to expand the types of productions eligible and offer a 35% credit to all productions based in Los Angeles.

The Wrap | 26-Mar-25

US , Entertainment Business , Government

Court's Preliminary Injunction Rejection in UMG v. Anthropic Is Actually Likely A Victory for UMG on "Fair Use"

In an order issued on Tuesday (March 25), Judge Eumi K. Lee of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California denied the publishers’ motion for a preliminary injunction that would have prohibited Anthropic “from using copies of lyrics to compositions owned or controlled by Publishers for future training of Anthropic’s AI models”.

Music Business Worldwide | 26-Mar-25

Sikandar' makers voluntarily cut 14.28 minutes despite censor approval

The Salman Khan upcoming film has been passed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a UA 13+ certificate after the filmmakers voluntarily trimmed 14.28 minutes from the film despite already receiving a censor certificate.

Jang | 25-Mar-25

Streaming Media | 25-Mar-25

The State of OTT and CTV Monetization 2025

There’s an old saying about advertising: “Half the money spent on advertising is working; we just don’t know which half.”

The Hollywood Reporter | 25-Mar-25

In Warning Sign for Hollywood, Younger Consumers Are Choosing Creator Content Over Premium TV and Movies

A new Deloitte study shows that Gen Zers are choosing social and creator-driven content over big-budget entertainment, as consumers overall feel a price pinch over streaming.

`IAB State of Data 2025’ Report Shows AI Use is Accelerating

A new report from IAB highlights that while AI use is accelerating, adoption in the advertising industry is still relatively low, with only 30% of agencies, brands, and publishers fully integrating AI into media campaigns.

TV Tech | 24-Mar-25

Australia , Government , Censorship , Classification

76% of Consumers Own 4 or More Connected Devices

The digital landscape is dictating how consumers choose to pay, with a clear divergence emerging between tech-embracing early adopters and those content with more basic connectivity, according to a new report.

PYMNTS | 24-Mar-25

Australia Has Banned Silent Hill f But We Don’t Know Why

The Australian government has released the Silent Hill f rating for the country, and it's been given an "RC," which stands for "Refused Classification." There's no reason given why it was refused to be given a rating, but if Konami and developer NeoBards Entertainment doesn't change a few things, the game will be denied a release in the entire country.

DualShockers | 22-Mar-25

UK , Netflix , Ratings , Discrimination , Violence

Adolescence age rating – how old do you need to be to watch?

With conversations around whether “Adolescence” should be shown in schools and in Parliament, it's safe to say that the Netflix drama has continued to make waves since its release last week.

Radio Times | 20-Mar-25

Middle East , Censorship

John Abraham's The Diplomat banned in the Middle East

The political thriller, based on a real-life Indian diplomat, faces restrictions in the Middle East over content concerns.

Samaa | 19-Mar-25

India , Censorship , Backlash , Religion

Vemal’s 'Paramasivan Fathima' faces censorship hurdles

The film 'Paramasivan Fathima,' facing controversy for its exploration of Christian religious conversions, has been asked by the censorship board to modify certain scenes and dialogues.

The Times of India | 19-Mar-25

Malaysia , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , FINAS

Fahmi: Finas Act amendments will not cover censorship of streaming platforms

The proposed amendments to the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) Act 1981 will not include censorship of online streaming services.

New Straits Times | 19-Mar-25

South Korea , Government , Regulation , Ratings

South Korea’s Approach to Age Assurance

South Korea’s approach to age assurance differs from many Western governments’ more recent and debated efforts as it stems from a long history of government-led identity verification measures.

Tech Policy | 19-Mar-25

US , Disney+ , Backlash , Sexuality , Drugs

Disney+ Under Fire From Parents Group for Streaming ‘Anora’

Disney+ is getting blasted by a family watchdog group for streaming five-time Oscar winner Anora, the ‘R’-rated movie about a Brooklyn sex worker caught up in a quickie Las Vegas wedding to the spoiled son of a Russian oligarch.

Media Play News | 19-Mar-25

Los Angeles Times | 18-Mar-25

Hollywood creatives urge government to defend copyright laws against AI

“We firmly believe that America’s global AI leadership must not come at the expense of our essential creative industries,” they wrote in a letter to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy last week.

UK , Localization

Emerging trends in localization

Navigating the next wave of localisation: AI, cost efficiency & accessibility

Plint | 17-Mar-25

Canada , Classification , Censorship

‘There’s always going to be censorship. Who’s going to be in charge of it?’

On March 6, 2025, Jennifer Henderson broke the news that Finance Minister John Lohr had announced the phasing out of the Nova Scotia Film Classification Board.

Halifax Examiner | 17-Mar-25

China , Entertainment Business

China releases AI content labeling rules

A mandatory national standard “Cybersecurity Technology –Labeling Method for Content Generated by Artificial Intelligence” has been officially approved and published and will be implemented simultaneously with the Measures. These rules establish clear identification standards for AI-generated content, and enhance transparency, restrict misleading information, and protect public interests.

Lexology | 17-Mar-25

US , Entertainment Business , Government

Does AI Dumb Down Creativity?

Over-Reliance on AI in the Creative Process Leads to Creative Atrophy & the Mundane

The Brain | 17-Mar-25

Hollywood warns about AI industry’s push to change copyright law

Paul McCartney, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Rock, and hundreds of others signed an open letter to the government, challenging OpenAI and Google.

Fast Company | 17-Mar-25

Nigeria , Censorship , Government , Misrepresentation

Industry Suffers Artistic Loss as Court Rules Against ‘Gangs of Lagos’ Producers and Amazon Over Fictional Portrayal of Eyo Masquerade

As part of the settlement, the producers (third to eleventh respondents) are required to issue a formal letter acknowledging IEDU’s position, recognizing that Gangs of Lagos misrepresented and disrespected the Eyo masquerade and the traditions of the Isale Eko people and to tender an unreserved public apology.

Shock | 16-Mar-25

Canada , Classification , Ratings , Government , Morality

End of an era: Board that classified films in the Maritimes fades to black

Maritime Film Classification Board sometimes found itself in controversies over censorship and morality

CBC | 16-Mar-25

Malaysia , Regulation , FINAS , Religion

Film, Drama Producers Should Consult Relevant Authorities On Religious-themed Works - FINAS

Film and drama producers planning to create content with religious themes or involving uniformed services have been advised to seek verification and approval from the relevant authorities to ensure their productions are appropriate and do not spark controversy.

Bernama | 16-Mar-25

UK , Regulation , Government , Sexuality

Policing pornography: how Labour is trying to criminalise sexual entertainment – and our desires

A new government-commissioned Review – Creating a Safer World – the Challenge of Regulating Online Pornography – recommends overhauling the government’s approach to online pornography, giving the state more power to police sexual content and its use.

The Canary | 16-Mar-25

Saudi Arabia , Backlash , Censorship , Religion

Saudi TV drama sparks outrage: Iraq, Iran ban show, clerics call it sinful

A multimillion-dollar Saudi TV drama has sparked a firestorm across the Middle East, with Iraq and Iran banning the show and religious leaders calling it sinful.

Caliber | 15-Mar-25

US , Censorship , Government

Sounds like censorship to me.' O cinema co-founder slams proposed eviction over film

O Cinema South Beach, an independent, non-profit movie theater, has been showing sold-out screenings of the controversial, Oscar-winning film No Other Land. But the Miami Beach's mayor calls the documentary "anti-semitic" and is now trying to cut off the city's funding and lease to the cinema, which is operating on city property.

NPR | 15-Mar-25

The Streaming Wars | 14-Mar-25

The $6.6 Trillion Digital Commerce Boom and the Rise of Shoppable TV

The intersection of content, commerce, and advertising is shaping the next wave of monetization, with retail media and shoppable TV leading the way

Fiji , Regulation , Ratings

Cinematographic Film Amendment Bill passed

The aim of the amendment is to introduce a new Parental Guidance rating for films suitable for children between six and 12 years, a move intended to offer more viewing options to younger audiences while maintaining appropriate content standards.

FBC News | 13-Mar-25

Nigeria , Censorship , Culture , Misrepresentation

Court bans viewing of controversial film, ‘Gang of Lagos’

A Lagos High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) has banned public viewing and streaming of a controversial film entitled, “Gang of Lagos”.

The Nation | 13-Mar-25

India , Censorship , Politics

Censor Board clears ‘Rajagunj’ for release after editing PM’s remarks

“We have complied with the censor board’s directives while ensuring that viewers’ right to watch the film remains intact,” Rauniyar stated. “However, the removed scenes will not be replaced with alternative visuals or dialogues. Instead, blank spaces or beeps will be used.”

Online Khabar | 12-Mar-25

US , Entertainment Business , Culture

‘Just don’t say DEI’: Brands sit out advertising around Black History Month, other heritage months this year

According to three marketers Digiday spoke with for this story who said brand clients have either paused marketing around days geared toward honoring historically marginalized communities or tweaked language away from anything that could be deemed DEI.

Digiday | 12-Mar-25

US , New Release

Snow White Premiere Plans Suffer Following Disney Remake's Controversies

Snow White will be theatrically released on March 21. However, Disney reportedly scrapped plans to have a premiere for the film in the United Kingdom last week. Snow White has been mired in controversy since the very beginning, with complaints about the film dating back to January 2022.

Comic Book Resources | 11-Mar-25

India , Streaming Platforms , Censorship , CBFC , Sexuality

‘Anora’ May Never Have a Theatrical Release in India Despite Multiple Oscar Wins

"Anora" will release directly on a streaming platform in India, thus bypassing its theatrical release. And a certain regulatory body could be responsible for it.

IndieWire | 8-Mar-25

India , Regulation , Streaming Platforms , MIB , TRAI

Cable operators demand regulatory parity as FAST 'blurs' broadcasting boundaries

The cable operators' association has also written to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), urging it to direct these OTT platforms to restrict the transmission of live channels.

Storyboard 18 | 7-Mar-25

The Wall Street Journal | 6-Mar-25

AI Will Soon Dominate Ad Buying, Whether Marketers Like It or Not

Advertisers are grappling with trade-offs of AI-powered ad planning and buying tools for automating nearly every step in digital ad campaigns.

Australia , Ratings , ACB , Violence

GTA 6 Age Rating Sparks Global Outrage: Will Rockstar Tone Down Violence?

The Australian Classification Board has given GTA 6 an MA15+ rating. This is different from GTA 5's R18+ rating. Fans are now wondering if Rockstar Games is making significant changes to the game.

Analytics Insight | 6-Mar-25

US , Government , Politics

As political polarization intensifies, agencies struggle to find brand-safe gaming influencers

In 2025, content creators are no longer afraid to share their political opinions — and it’s created a headache for brands looking to engage in influencer marketing without prodding the hornet’s nest.

Digiday | 6-Mar-25

US , Government

Extra! Extra! The Future of Interpretation Just Changed. Again!

An Executive Order designates English as the official language of the U.S.

Linkedin | 5-Mar-25

Egypt , Backlash , Censorship , Religion

Ramadan 2025: TV series Muawiya sparks controversy and bans in parts of Arab world

Senior figure from Egypt’s highest religious authority urges viewers not to watch show

The National | 5-Mar-25

UK , Ratings , Classification , PEGI , Gambling

When video game age ratings go wrong: Balatro’s battle with PEGI

Card game Balatro was a huge hit last year – but a year-long struggle with the European age ratings board has exposed how well-meaning rules can have unintended consequences

The Guardian | 5-Mar-25

India , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , Violence

Explained: Why Unni Mukundan's Marco faces TV ban after OTT release

The Malayalam film 'Marco', starring Unni Mukundan in the lead role, has not been cleared by the CBFC for television screening. Here's all about the board's decision and the reason they have cited.

India Today | 5-Mar-25

Marco Ban On OTT? Producer Vows To Not Make 'Violent Films' After Unni Mukundan Starrer Stirs Controversy Over TV Premiere

Now, the call for Marco streaming rights cancellation may signal something much worse for the team and the film community.

Republic World | 5-Mar-25

India , JioHotstar , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , Sexuality

Oscar Winner Anora Cut on JioHotstar OTT

The biggest winner from this year’s Academy Awards is coming to Indian OTT soon. Anora, that won a whopping number of five Oscars this year, will be streaming on Jio Hotstar from the 17th of March. But people are concerned about the movie being heavily cut and censored before coming to Indian OTT. The movie is about an erotic dancer and has many sexually explicit scenes.

M9 News | 4-Mar-25

France , Canal+ , Entertainment Business

Canal+ eyes Africa growth, rules out ITVS move

Canal+ Group is not interested in investing in ITV Studios but is pursuing an “active M&A strategy” in Africa after posting its first results since listing on the London Stock Exchange in December.

Broadcast Now | 4-Mar-25

India , YouTube , Censorship , Government , Morality

Supreme Court allows YouTuber Ranveer Allahabadia to resume his show with decency and morality

Allahabadia and his associates were barred from airing any show on YouTube or any other audio/video visual mode of communication over India’s Got Latent Row.

SCC Online | 3-Mar-25

India , JioHotstar , Censorship

Cut, Censored, Controlled: Jio's Takeover of OTT

Our freedom of speech includes the freedom to comment and criticize. But by completely removing the content in the first place, both the freedoms are being taken away. How can I say something is bad if you remove the traces of it completely?

Substack | 3-Mar-25

US , Netflix , Streaming Platforms

Netflix Is Using AI to Upscale a 1980s Sitcom and the Results Are Borderline Horrific

From the very first frames, you can tell there's something off about Netflix's version of "A Different World," a "Cosby Show" spin-off that aired on NBC from 1987 to 1993.

Futurism | 3-Mar-25

Ireland , Ratings

Why Oscar hopefuls rated 18 in UK got a 16 certificate in Ireland

The Ifco boss watches three movies a day. With Anora, The Brutalist and The Substance, Ciarán Kissane is glad that Ireland is more liberal than the UK.

The Times | 2-Mar-25

India , Regulation

Is searching for pirated movies a crime in India? You could be jailed for…

Piracy is a violation of the Copyright Act, 1957, in India. This law protects creators’ rights by ensuring they receive proper recognition and compensation for their work. Engaging in piracy, including downloading or streaming pirated movies, is illegal and can lead to serious consequences.

Orissa Post | 2-Mar-25

Vietnam , Regulation , Government

Vietnam restructures national broadcasters VTV&VOV under new government decrees

The government has issued new decrees defining the functions, responsibilities, and organizational structures of Vietnam Television (VTV) and Voice of Vietnam (VOV).

Vietnamnet | 1-Mar-25

US , YouTube , Entertainment Business

YouTube Slowing 'Interruptive' Ads: Who's Really In Control?

YouTube is upping the stakes in looking more like TV where advertising commercials appear in more natural breaks for its mid-roll messaging -- offering up fewer ads in "interruptive" places.

Media Post | 28-Feb-25

Iran , Censorship , Government , Obscenity

Global filmmaking community support Iranian directors before 'propaganda' trial starts in Iran

The global film community is showing support for Iranian directing duo Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha ahead of their trial over “propaganda against the regime” allegations.

Yahoo News | 28-Feb-25

UK , Ratings , PEGI , Gambling

Developer of indie video game hit Balatro wins battle over age rating

One of 2024's most successful video games has had its 18+ age rating overturned.

BBC | 25-Feb-25

India , Regulation , Government , Obscenity , Violence

Govt to Crack Down on Obscene Content on OTT & Social Media

Recognizing growing concerns about the proliferation of obscene and violent content, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) is examining whether new legal provisions are needed to address these issues.

Trak | 25-Feb-25

India , JioHotstar , Censorship , Sexuality , Religion

JioHotstar sparks controversy by censoring The White Lotus S3, leaving HBO unhappy

With JioHotstar having edited two scenes from The White Lotus 3, sources say international partner HBO has pulled up the streamer; advised them to avoid changes without prior discussions

Mid-Day | 25-Feb-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Nudity , Sexuality

Nude and intimate scenes in Adrien Brody’s The Brutalist gets censored for India release

India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which has been intensely scrutinizing every international release, from The Apprentice (2024) to Conclave, has pulled out its scissors for Brady Corbet’s directorial venture too.

Mid-Day | 24-Feb-25

UK , Regulation , Government , BBFC , Sexuality

Pornography sites face new checks to tackle ‘extreme content’

Under the proposed government plan, the British Board of Film Classification would audit porn sites and social media to make sure they remove illegal content.

The Times | 24-Feb-25

US , Netflix , Streaming Platforms

Michael Cole Says Netflix Is ‘Very Strict’ On What Content They Allow

“In this day and age, you have to be very careful with what you say,” Cole said. “Even with Netflix, we thought we would be able to get away with a few other things, but Netflix is very strict with that, too.”

411Mania | 24-Feb-25

UK , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

AI Isn't Killing Media Jobs. People Are.

AI isn’t a rogue villain stalking industries and taking jobs. It is a tool, like any other, and how it is wielded depends entirely on the people in charge.

The Brain | 24-Feb-25

UK , Ratings , BBFC

Why so many Oscar nominees are rated 18, by the man who decides

You see his name on every cinema trip, but the head of the BBFC says it’s public attitudes that guide ratings — and they’ve changed dramatically since 1999.

The Times | 23-Feb-25

What’s next for TV distribution?

It has been a tumultuous few years for the content industry, with the shifting priorities of streamers - particularly those based out of the US - requiring suppliers to be reactive, agile and nimble.

Broadcast Now | 21-Feb-25

Australia , Censorship , Streaming Platforms

Neighbours Axing Highlights Need for Stronger Content Rules

Reports that the iconic Australian series Neighbours has been axed highlight the urgency of local content rules for streaming services.

Mirage | 21-Feb-25

UK , Entertainment Business , Streaming Platforms

Distributors recalibrate for a new-look landscape

Twenty execs from major distribution companies give their views on the opportunities and challenges facing the industry, from risk aversion and falling spending to the need to get creative when it comes to financing and windowing

Broadcast Now | 20-Feb-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Nudity , Sexuality

Nicole Kidman's 'Babygirl' CENSORED in India; CBFC deletes intimate scenes and nudity from 'A' rated film

Indian audiences will not get to see the film in its original form, as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has made significant cuts before granting it ‘A’ certificate. According to the CBFC’s Certificate, a total of 3 minutes and 36 seconds from the film.

The Times of India | 20-Feb-25

India , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , Coarse Language

Brands’ interest in “Grand Theft Auto” is mounting — but questions about brand safety remain

As the release of “Grand Theft Auto VI” grows closer, brands’ interest in the game is increasing, even if the specifics of its marketing opportunities remain unclear.

Digiday | 20-Feb-25

OTT & Social Media Platforms Issued Notice For Their ‘Alleged Spread Of Vulgar Content,’ Amid IGL Controversy

Comedian Samay Raina's now-cancelled show India’s Got Latent has been making the headlines for more than a week now. The show and its guests along with the host found themselves in trouble after YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia asked an offensive “Would You Rather” question to a contestant.

Mashable | 20-Feb-25

Hong Kong , Regulation , Government

Streaming-Era Commercials Invade Forbidden TV Territory: Presidential Debates, HBO Shows and Other Content Once Deemed Off-Limits

During NBC’s telecast of the Paris Olympics last year, GroupM, a different media buyer, was granted permission to buy up an entire commercial break and fill it with ads only from its own clients, including Google, Target and Coca-Cola.

Variety | 19-Feb-25

Broadcasting And Media Regulation In Hong Kong: An Overview

For present purposes, we define 'media' as encompassing television broadcasting, sound broadcasting, print and film.

Mondaq | 19-Feb-25

India , Streaming Platforms , Regulation , Ratings , MIB , Drugs

I&B ministry issues advisory for OTTs, mandates adherence to Indian laws

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), on Wednesday, issued an advisory directing OTT platforms to refrain from publishing content prohibited by law, implement age-based content classification, and enforce access control mechanisms for adult-rated content.

Best Media Info | 19-Feb-25

India , Censorship , Government

Superstar Manoj Kumar’s films were banned because…, took the PM to court and then…

A bunch of Bollywood actors have been extremely outspoken and never shy away from taking a dig, particularly against the establishment.

India.com | 19-Feb-25

Singapore , Regulation , Government , IMDA , Mental Health

Singapore regulator studying age assurance for social media services

A newly released report from the government assesses how the six designated social media services in the country – Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube and HardwareZone – are complying with the country’s Code of Practice for Online Safety for social media services.

BiometricUpdate | 19-Feb-25

South Korea , Streaming Platforms , Ratings

More violent, explicit R-rated series flood Korean OTT platforms

Recent OTT platforms are locked in fierce competition with adult-rated dramas. According to K-content analysis platform Fundex, half of the top 10 most talked-about TV and OTT dramas in the first week of February were rated adult-only, including “The Queen Who Crowns,” “Squid Game” season 2, “Newtopia,” “Study Group,” and “Friendly Rivalry.”

The Chosun | 18-Feb-25

Singapore , Regulation , IMDA , Mental Health

More than half of reports of harm not dealt with in the first instance: IMDA audit of social media firms

More than half of legitimate user complaints about content related to child abuse or cyber bullying, among other harms, were not addressed in the first instance by social media companies, Singapore’s media regulator has found.

The Straits Times | 18-Feb-25

India , ALTBalaji , Backlash , Sexuality

Mumbai Court Directs Police Inquiry Into Complaint Against Ekta Kapoor Over Web Series Allegations

A court in Bandra on Saturday directed the city police to investigate a criminal complaint against film and television producer Ekta Kapoor over allegations of disrespecting Indian soldiers in one of her web series.

The Law Advice | 17-Feb-25

Canada , Culture , Entertainment Business

Want to 'watch Canadian' in the trade war? Here's why that's so hard

Florida oranges. American cheese. Even bourbon. It seems nothing is beyond the newfound patriotic urge to shun American products amid the growing U.S.-Canada trade war. But after years or purposefully enmeshing our various industries, buying Canadian is easier said than done. Nowhere, it turns out, is that more evident than in film and television.

CBC | 13-Feb-25

MIT Technology Review | 13-Feb-25

Designing the future of entertainment

Emerging tech is remaking the media and entertainment industries—opening new business opportunities for the technologically savvy.

Israel , Entertainment Business , Government

And the Big Winner of Israel's Cinema Reform Is: A West Bank Film Fund

Israel's culture minister signed reforms strengthening the regional film funds and favoring the production of commercial movies over art films

Haaretz | 12-Feb-25

Los Angeles Times | 12-Feb-25

Hollywood writers say AI is ripping off their work. They want studios to sue

As AI innovation advances, writers are urging entertainment companies to take legal action against AI firms that they allege are using writers’ work to train AI models without their permission.

US , Backlash , Regulation , Hate Speech

Scarlett Johansson Slams AI-Created Video of Celebrities Denouncing Kanye West: ‘We Must Call Out the Misuse of AI’

Scarlett Johansson has once again been forced to speak out about the dangers of artificial intelligence, this time after a video featuring her likeness has gone viral.

The Wrap | 12-Feb-25

India , Entertainment Business , Mental Health

"Fair Use" Fails! First Court Ruling Is A Game-Changer for Artists, Media & GenAI Tech

I've Long Predicted Courts Will Ultimately Reject Tech's Fundamental Defense for Training LLMs Without Consent & Compensation. And Now, The First One Has.

The Brain | 12-Feb-25

Are you triggering mature media consumption for your children? Study warns parents

The study observed that a parent’s screen habits can have direct impact on the child’s media consumption. Here’s how it works.

Hindustan TImes | 11-Feb-25

US , Disney+ , Streaming Platforms , LGBTQ

Disney reportedly planning to remove warnings from questionable content

Disney is reportedly relegating the content advisory that runs before certain titles to the "Details" tab on Disney+.

The A.V. Club | 11-Feb-25

India , YouTube , Censorship , Obscenity , Sexuality

YouTuber booked after outrage over obscene remarks, offers apology

The Assam Police on Monday booked YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and other members of the “India’s Got Latent” show for promoting obscenity and engaging in sexually explicit discussion online.

The Tribune | 11-Feb-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Coarse Language , Defamation

Chhaava: CBFC Directs Makers To Cut Scene Depicting Maratha Warriors Wearing Sarees, Replace Dialogues On Mughal

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has suggested several changes to Vicky Kaushal and Laxman Utekar's Chhava. Reportedly, a scene featuring Maratha warriors in sarees was removed from the film. Additionally, words like 'haramz*da,' 'Mughals ka khoon,' and 'ameen' were either muted or replaced.

Times Now | 11-Feb-25

Singapore , Censorship , IMDA , Sexuality

In The Age Of Deepfakes, How Can We Tell Fact From Fiction?

With the rise of generative AI, it’s now easy to create highly realistic fake media. Using widely available online tools, a skilled cybercriminal could turn an executive’s LinkedIn video into a custom phishing attack in minutes. The science fiction part, at least for now, is the strong content provenance tools.

Forbes | 10-Feb-25

South Korea , Regulation

Korean streaming operators arrested for illegal K-content distribution in Vietnam

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on the 10th that it arrested two masterminds operating four illegal sites, including 'PickleTV' and 'TV Champ', through international cooperation with the Daejeon District Prosecutor's Office, the Korean National Police Agency, and Interpol. They were sent to custody last month.

Chosun Biz | 10-Feb-25

India , Censorship

Controversy Surrounds Manushi Amidst Censorship Challenges

The filmmakers applied for certification, but the censor board suggested multiple cuts in scenes and dialogues. Disagreeing with this, they reapplied in Mumbai, only to receive similar feedback. Eventually, the team agreed to make the necessary changes to obtain censorship approval.

IndiaGlitz | 9-Feb-25

Porn on social media disguised as educational content; parents’ role key in protecting kids

Checks by ST between Dec 15 and Dec 31, 2024, showed that content creators on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and Facebook have found ways to bypass content moderation, which can involve a mix of artificial intelligence (AI) software and human reviewers.

The Straits Times | 9-Feb-25

UK , Subs and Dubs

AI Dubbing Content: The Future of Global Content Creation

The media and entertainment industry is going through a progressive shift, with AI dubbing content assuming a focal part in changing the manner content is created and consumed. As interest for multilingual content rises, AI-driven arrangements are set to reclassify availability and commitment for worldwide crowds.

MSN | 8-Feb-25

Australia , Entertainment Business

Digital Innovation, the Entertainment Industry & How Technology is Reshaping It

Technology is influencing various industries, with new digital innovations such as blockchain, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), artificial intelligence (AI), and virtual reality (VR) emerging each year. As they gain traction, music, film, and TV creators are taking advantage of these tools to enhance their work, connect with their intended audiences, and change traditional business models.

Variety | 7-Feb-25

US , Government , Sexuality

Amazon, Google and verification vendors among ad tech cohort under fire from U.S. senators over child safety shortcomings

Adalytics has been a thorn in the side of major ad platforms that have characterized its research as flawed, but now it has found an audience in the highest echelons of government.

Digiday | 7-Feb-25

India , Backlash , Government , Religion

Orissa High Court Refuses To Stay Release Of Odia Movie 'Sanatani' For Allegedly Being Derogatory To Christian Religion

The Orissa High Court has declined to stay the release of Odia movie 'Sanatani' amidst allegations of it being derogatory to Christian religion and having potential to cause unrest and disruption of the law-and-order situation.

Live Law | 7-Feb-25

US , YouTube , Entertainment Business

Data: Long-form content takes 73% of YouTube US viewing time

Consumption of long-form content on YouTube is rising rapidly in the US, accounting for 73 per cent of all viewing time on the platform by the end of October 2024, according to research by Digital i, a provider of cross-platform streaming data and analysis.

Advanced Television | 6-Feb-25

US , TikTok , Censorship , Government , Free Speech

TikTok v. Garland Opens the Door to Global Censorship

The case sets a dangerous legal precedent, empowering governments to police speech on platforms by invoking national security.

Lawfare | 6-Feb-25

US , YouTube , New Release

Warner Bros. Releases 31 Full-Length Movies on Its YouTube Channels, Streaming for Free

Since the start of 2025, the company has released 31 movies on Warner Bros.-owned YouTube channels, all available for free.

Variety | 6-Feb-25

UK , Entertainment Business , Violence

Scandalous Grand Theft Auto Controversies That Pushed Buttons And Boundaries

From its earliest days, the Grand Theft Auto franchise challenged societal norms with its gritty portrayal of crime and freedom, allowing players to live their most depraved and wild lives. The depiction of violence and mature themes has sparked debates about video game content and its impact on players for decades, but the series continues to push boundaries and challenge social norms in spite of every GTA controversy.

Ranker | 6-Feb-25

India , Censorship , Alcohol , Obscenity

Quality Over Quantity: How Streaming And Media Content Will Change In 2025

Media companies and streaming servicers have significantly increased their content libraries year over year in order to attract new customers.

Mondaq | 5-Feb-25

UK , Subs and Dubs

AI Was Nearly Used to Recreate the French Voice of Sylvester Stallone. Now, European Dubbers Are Doubling Down on the Need for Protection

The prospect that AI is encroaching on the jobs of thousands of dubbing actors and on the quality of dubbed content is especially relevant in Europe, where actors like Alain Dorval can become just as famous in their respective countries as the Hollywood stars to whom they lend their voices.

Variety | 5-Feb-25

Badass Ravi Kumar: Bikini, cleavage shot removed from Himesh Reshammiya's action film; read deets on other cuts by CBFC

The CBFC has given its certificate to the Himesh Reshammiya starrer, however, with multiple cuts and changes. The CBFC passed the film on January 29 and has requested the team to make some changes. A few scenes that have liquor brand names or scenes with middle fingers have been blurred.

Bollywood Life | 5-Feb-25

US , Ratings , Mental Health

OpenAI’s Sora Filmmaking Tool Meets Resistance in Hollywood

Newspaper publishers have licensed articles for millions of dollars. Record labels have filed lawsuits. But when it comes to the commercial potential of artificial intelligence, movie studios are off to a much slower start.

Yahoo Finance | 4-Feb-25

Associations between media parenting practices and early adolescent consumption of R-rated movies and mature-rated video games

R-rated (i.e., suitable for those under 17 years old when accompanied by parents or other guardians) movies and mature video games consumption in adolescents may lead to adverse outcomes in various aspects of their lives — poor mental health, worse school performance, substance use, and problematic behaviors — raising parental and public health concerns.

BMC | 4-Feb-25

International , Streaming Platforms , Entertainment Business

Ampere: 2025 Global Streaming Content Spend to Top Broadcast at $95 Billion

Streaming video services worldwide are projected to increase content spending 6% to $95 billion in 2025 from $89.6 billion in 2024, according to new data from Ampere Analysis. The tally is expected to top content spending among commercial TV broadcasters for the first time, making streamers such as Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ the leading contributors to the global content landscape.

Media Play News | 4-Feb-25

Australia , Classification , Gambling

Mandatory minimum classifications for computer games with gambling-like content

Updated guidelines for classifying computer games recently came into effect, introducing mandatory minimum classifications for games that contain gambling-like content.

Corrs Chambers Westgarth | 3-Feb-25

UK , Entertainment Business

AI can complement creative and co-pro spirit: Steve Matthews’ Göteborg Takeaways

Banijay’s newly appointed global scripted creative lead sees opportunity after travails of last year

Broadcast Now | 3-Feb-25

India , Censorship , Culture , CBFC

For India release, CBFC asks Conclave makers to attach 37-second disclaimer summarising the plot

The Ralph Fiennes-starrer, which is set to release in India on February 7, will open with a 37-second audio and visual disclaimer outlining the story, in adherence with the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) instruction.

Mid-Day | 3-Feb-25

Nigeria , Classification , NFVCB

Why content creators must classify films before uploading – NFVCB ED Shaibu Husseini

“The law says that any film or video work produced in this country, or imported to be exhibited on any platform, has to be classified by the National Film and Video Censors Board.”

QED-NG | 2-Feb-25

Nigeria , Streaming Platforms , Censorship , Classification , NFVCB

How streaming platforms impact movie censorship

Greater attention to movie classification could serve as a valuable tool for audiences, enabling them to be informed about the nature of the content before engaging with it, whether through renting, purchasing, or streaming.

Guardian | 1-Feb-25

India , Government , Censorship , CBFC , Politics

Bombay High Court rejects CBFC's objections to 'Inn Galiyon Mein', says board exceeded guidelines

The Bombay High Court has dismissed several objections raised by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) regarding scenes and dialogues in the film Inn Galiyon Mein, stating that the board was "stretching its own guidelines a bit too much."

Vartha Bharati | 31-Jan-25

Malaysia , Censorship , Religion , Racism , Sexuality

Why Some of Malaysia’s Best Films Aren’t Shown in Malaysia

Movies that win praise and prizes abroad are sometimes banned or heavily censored at home, where some religious, racial and sexual themes are considered off-limits.

The New York Times | 31-Jan-25

Nigeria , YouTube , Classification , NFVCB

Ruth Kadiri, Omoni Oboli, Blessing Egbe submit YouTube films for classification – NFVCB ED Shaibu Husseini

National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) Executive Director Shaibu Husseini has identified Ruth Kadiri, Omoni Oboli and Blessing Egbe as some of the filmmakers on YouTube who ensure their works undergo classification. “The law states that any film or video work produced locally or imported for exhibition on any platform must be classified by the National Film and Video Censors Board,” he said.

QED-NG | 31-Jan-25

US , Localization

Localization and detection of deepfake videos based on self-blending method

Forgery primarily relies on deepfake faceswapping technology, which employs deep learning methods to manipulate images or videos. With the continuous advancement of deep learning, deepfake technology is becoming increasingly mature, producing fake images and videos that are more realistic, thus exerting a more profound impact on societal security.

Nature | 31-Jan-25

The Indian Express | 30-Jan-25

Sharjeel Imam, 6 others move Delhi High Court seeking stay on release of ‘Delhi 2020’

After the petitions were filed over ‘Delhi 2020’, the Delhi High Court sought a response from the Centre and CBFC.

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , Government , Regulation , KFCB

Don’t dissolve film board

Move could undermine the country’s efforts to effectively regulate and promote responsible film and media content consumption.

Nation | 30-Jan-25

US , Censorship , Violence

High Court rejects censor board's objection to flag trampling scene in film

Inn Galiyon Mein: The Bombay High Court rejected the Central Board of Film Certification's demand to cut a flag-trampling scene in the film 'Inn Galiyon Mein', stating it neither represented a national nor political flag.

India Today | 30-Jan-25

Stephen King horror film trailer is so shocking it was denied permission to be aired on TV

NEON posted the emails to Twitter with the caption: “We submitted a TV spot for THE MONKEY to the four major TV networks. It did not go well.”

LADbible | 30-Jan-25

US , Disney+ , Streaming Platforms

Streaming 2024: Fewer Core Apps In U.S. Homes

Recent research on streaming TV reveals general consistency, but not growth, in the amount of streaming apps viewers regularly tune into -- 3.9 average apps per U.S. home in third-quarter 2024, according to TVision.

Media Post | 29-Jan-25

Disney+ Signs Landmark Deal in France to Invest 25% of its Local Turnover in French, European Movies; Gets Nine-Month Window on Theatrical Films

Disney+ has signed a landmark agreement to invest 25% of its annual sales generated in France to finance French and European series and films. As a payoff for this commitment, the streamer will be allowed to access newly released films nine months after their theatrical release, a big improvement from the previous 17-month window.

Variety | 29-Jan-25

UK , Regulation , Censorship , Ratings

Edited Broadcasts and Alternative Film Versions on Free TV

For film enthusiasts, watching a movie in its original form is crucial to experiencing the director’s intended vision. However, television broadcasts often feature edited versions, either to comply with broadcasting regulations or to fit specific time slots.

The Reel World | 29-Jan-25

US , Entertainment Business , Government

U.S. Copyright Office says AI generated content can be copyrighted — if a human contributes to or edits it

In an important and helpful update issued today, the U.S. Copyright Office — which administers copyright protections from the government to human-authored works such as films, TV shows, novels, art, music, even software — clarified that some forms of AI generated content can, in fact, receive copyright protection, provided that a human substantially contributed or changed the content in question.

VentureBeat | 29-Jan-25

Sports Video Group | 28-Jan-25

AI in Sports Production: How the Tech is Reshaping Content Creation, Broadcasting, and Fan Engagement

From content distribution and curation to even content creation, artificial intelligence is already transforming every aspect of the media and entertainment ecosystem.

Ireland , Ratings , IFCO , Gore

Three boys ‘faint at 16th birthday’ party while watching 15-rated movie

Saltburn’s age rating of 16 has come under fire due to the film’s ‘stomach-churning’ scenes, while Oscar-nominated The Substance should have been rated 18 over its ‘sustained gore’, it has been claimed.

Extra | 28-Jan-25

US , Ratings

Opting for R-rated: One way to draw more customers is to lock out others

Why do studios seek R ratings, knowing they reduce the overall audience by preventing younger moviegoers from seeing them? One obvious answer was that many movies do not have a choice. The core theme might be violent or sexual in nature. However, in many cases, studios do have a choice.

Phys | 28-Jan-25

Australia , Classification , Gambling

An overview of how to classify video games and films

New reforms which affect the classification of video games that contain gambling-like content are a timely reminder to revisit how developers and production companies classify video games or films.

Corrs Chambers Westgarth | 28-Jan-25

Free Press Journal | 28-Jan-25

Chhaava, Padmaavat And More Period Films That Faced Controversy Before The Release

When a filmmaker decides to make a period film there are multiple risks. One of the risks is that the budget of the movie is high, so of course, it has to do well at the box office. But, even before the movie releases, the risk is that the film should not get involved in a controversy.

France , Entertainment Business , Government

France's culture minister says contested public media reform is back on track

France's Culture Minister Rachida Dati says the controversial plan to reform the public broadcasting sector will be "completed by the summer". Delayed several times, the proposed reorganisation has previously prompted angry strikes.

RFI | 28-Jan-25

Japan , Censorship , Ratings , CERO , Gore

Assassin's Creed Shadows Gets Censored In Japan

Assassin's Creed Shadows will be censored in Japan due to its depiction of gore and has received a mature rating from the country's video game rating system.

GameSpot | 27-Jan-25

Netherlands , Regulation , Gambling

Key Trends Shaping the Future of Digital Gaming and Entertainment

The rapid development of the digital gaming and entertainment landscape is without precedent, driven by technological innovation, changing consumer habits and an expanding regulatory environment.

BNO News | 27-Jan-25

Europe , Streaming Platforms , Subs and Dubs

Captioning the global content boom

As broadcasters and global streaming platforms break down language barriers, subtitles and captions have become essential tools in making content accessible to a worldwide audience. The availability of subtitles in local languages allows viewers to enjoy content originally produced in foreign languages.

TVB Europe | 27-Jan-25

Saudi Arabia , Entertainment Business , Globalization

Saudi Film Commission Joins Asian Film Commissions Network

The Saudi Film Commission has joined the Asian Film Commissions Network (AFCNet), a non-profit organization established in 2004. The network represents over 50 members across 19 countries and regions in Asia, including film commissions, production offices, and other related organizations.

Asharq Al-Awsat | 26-Jan-25

India , Government , Backlash

Chhaava: 'Film will not be allowed to release if...' warns Maharashtra minister on Vicky Kaushal's movie

The controversy around Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chhaava is not ending soon. Now, a minister from the Maharashtra government has demanded an expert review of the film and clarified his position on the ongoing controversy.

India TV | 25-Jan-25

France , AppleTV+ , Streaming Platforms , Localization

More French-language programming coming to Apple TV+ in EU countries

While in line with its previous spending in the country, the new agreement commits Apple TV+ to investing 20 percent of its previous year's net sales in France into the initiative.

AppleInsider | 25-Jan-25

India , Censorship , CBFC , Coarse Language

CBFC reduces lip lock scene in Shahid Kapoor-starrer Deva by 6 seconds

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed the film with a U/A certificate. However, the film had to go through three modifications. The lip lock sequence was reduced by six seconds. The visual of the 'foul gesture' was 'suitably modified. At multiple places in the film, foul words were used and they were replaced with milder words. The change was also done in the subtitles.

Bollywood Hungama | 25-Jan-25

Track Tollywood | 25-Jan-25

High Court Declares No Early Morning Shows in Telangana

There will be no early morning shows in Telangana. The Telangana High Court has given an unexpected shock to Telugu Producers. The HC took a sensational decision regarding the benefit shows of the film. The Telangana High Court stated that benefit shows will not be allowed in the future. The High Court took this decision after hearing a petition filed in the High Court regarding the hike in the prices of movie tickets and special benefit shows.

Turkey , Censorship , LGBTQ

Ankara Governor bans 13-year-old LGBTI+ film festival

Ankara Governor’s Office has banned LGBTI+ film festival Queerfest organized in the country’s capital, claiming it is “for the protection of public order, public health and morals, and the rights and freedoms of others.”

DuvaR | 24-Jan-25

South Korea , Subs and Dubs , Localization

Kuro Games' “Wuthering Waves” Suffers from Poor Localization in its Korean Translation

Following its release in Korea, “Wuthering Waves” from Kuro Games has faced severe translation errors, resulting in significant user dissatisfaction.

Game VU | 24-Jan-25

Australia , Censorship , Violence

Why the re-release of Crocodile Dundee won’t be the same as the one you saw in the ‘80s

Cinematic censors appear to be brandishing a bigger knife, with a growing push to slash iconic scenes from movies now deemed out-dated.

7News | 24-Jan-25

US , Government , Censorship

The Impact of Age Verification Measures Goes Beyond Porn Sites

As age verification bills pass across the world under the guise of “keeping children safe online,” governments are increasingly giving themselves the authority to decide what topics are deemed “safe” for young people to access, and forcing online services to remove and block anything that may be deemed “unsafe.”

Electronic Frontier Foundation | 23-Jan-25

UK , Trigger Warning , Mental Health

Most trigger warnings are inadequate TV and film need to do better

Portrayals of mental health on television and in films are still far from ideal, and the lengths that such entertainment companies go to properly safeguard their audiences remains widely considered as still fairly poor.

Unilad | 23-Jan-25

India , Censorship , Sexual Violence

Why was Blue Velvet banned in certain regions at the time of its release? Explained

While the film would go on to achieve cult status and become a cornerstone of Lynch’s career, its shocking imagery and challenging subject matter resulted in censorship and bans in some regions.

SportsKeeda | 22-Jan-25

UK , Culture , Entertainment Business

The rise of interactive entertainment: How technology is reshaping cultural experiences

From virtual reality art exhibitions to immersive theatre performances, the entertainment landscape is evolving rapidly. As technology continues to advance, traditional cultural experiences are being transformed into interactive adventures that blend digital innovation with artistic expression.

The Upcoming | 22-Jan-25

Finland , Censorship , Horror

Why Steven Spielberg's E.T. Was Banned For Children In Scandinavia

But despite becoming a critical hit and cultural phenomenon, there was some overseas controversy surrounding its release. "E.T." was originally going to be a horror movie before Spielberg transformed the alien-meets-world story into more family-friendly fare.

Slash Film | 22-Jan-25

UK , Trigger Warning , Racism

Trigger warnings added to episodes of Only Fools and Horses

Some people find trigger warnings helpful, as they give them the choice to engage with the content or prepare themselves emotionally. Others debate their necessity, arguing that they could be overused or stifle open conversations.

Yahoo Life | 22-Jan-25

US , Censorship , Government , LGBTQ

Music’s creator economy: ‘Look at data that helps you understand your audience’

Creators who are successful in this world are able to market content, and then reach and maintain an audience broad and long.

Music Ally | 22-Jan-25

Trump erases LGBTQ+ and HIV content from federal websites

Other reportedly censored terms from WhiteHouse.gov and more include "gay," "lesbian," "bisexual," and "trans," to name a few.

Out | 21-Jan-25

US , Backlash

The Brutalist AI Backlash, Explained

The revelation has ignited fresh conversation around the use of AI in movie production.

Mashable | 21-Jan-25

The Indian Express | 21-Jan-25

Release of Diljit Dosanjh’s Punjab 95, which faced 120 cuts from CBFC, delayed: ‘We are very sorry’

Diljit Dosanjh took to social media to announce the postponement of Punjab 95, explaining that the release date had to be pushed due to unforeseen circumstances.

India , Backlash , Coarse Language

Sankranthiki Vasthunam: Unnecessary Controversy?

Director Anil Ravipudi recently clarified his intent during the success meet. He explained that Bulli Raju’s character was designed to highlight the adverse effects of unregulated OTT exposure on kids.

M9 News | 21-Jan-25

Kenya , Censorship , KFCB , Obscenity

Nigeria: Kano Film Censorship Board Bans Singer, Actresses Over Immorality

The Kano State Film Censorship Board has banned Kannywood singer Usman Sojaboy and actresses Shamsiyya Muhammad and Hasina Suzan from participating in any activities within the Hausa film industry.

All Africa | 21-Jan-25

Media Play News | 21-Jan-25

Trump Revokes Biden’s AI Safeguards Executive Order Impacting Media, Entertainment

Just hours into his second presidential term, President Donald Trump issued nearly 80 executive orders revoking orders established by former President Biden, including one aimed at regulating and managing the risks from artificial intelligence (AI) across myriad industries such as media and entertainment.

UK , Ratings , BBFC , MPA , Violence

What was the first movie to be rated PG-13?

The US film rating system differs significantly from the UK’s. While the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) employs seven age-related categories, the Motion Picture Association (MPA) in the US uses just five.

Far Out | 20-Jan-25

India , Backlash , Censorship , Sexual Violence

Explicit Rape Scene: Outrage After OTT Release

Vijay Sethupathi’s Maharaja faced heavy criticism for its portrayal of sexual assault, with many pointing fingers at the film for its disturbing and unnecessary depiction.

M9 News | 20-Jan-25

Australia , Classification , Government , ACB

Bipartisan pushback as national censor requests more power

Two senior opposing MPs have put politics aside to push back against a move to reclassify classic films and books.

News.Com | 20-Jan-25

New Zealand , Subs and Dubs , Government , Politics

As It Hits $1 Billion at the Box Office, ‘Moana 2’ Finds Itself Mired in Political Controversy

The Walt Disney Company sells movies worldwide, and it must translate them into the native language of the people watching them. However, there are times when something gets lost in the translation, or it causes controversy.

Inside the Magic | 19-Jan-25

Japan , Nintendo , Localization

Animal Crossing's "obscure references" were all "localized out completely" before its debut in the West, as Nintendo felt it needed to "change everything"

The original Animal Crossing looked a whole lot different in Japan

Games Radar | 19-Jan-25

India , Government , Politics

After screening the trailer, AAP vows to take the banned film, ‘unbreakable’, to the masses

Says will expose the conspiracy of BJP and Delhi Police to stop the private screening of the documentary film

Telangana Today | 18-Jan-25

Vietnam , Regulation , Culture

Consulting on the Draft Decree regulating the protection and management of World Cultural and Natural Heritage in Vietnam

The purpose of promulgating the Decree is to supplement and complete detailed regulations on the protection and management of World Cultural and Natural Heritage in Vietnam.

Vietnam.vn | 18-Jan-25

US , Censorship , Sexuality

It's True: Pokemon Censored One of Misty's Most Inappropriate Scenes In the U.S.

One of the reasons why Misty is held with so much regard in the West is thanks to the many censored moments that were changed from the original Japanese series. One of these is particularly striking, as it was a strange and truly unnecessary attempt at sexualizing Ash’s first female friend.

Screen Rant | 17-Jan-25

South Korea , Censorship , Nudity

Controversy Over 19+ Use Of “The Queen Who Crowns”: Is It Deepfake Of Actresses? Criticism Persists Despite Clarification

What sets “The Queen Who Crowns” apart is its differing levels of censorship between the TV broadcast and OTT platform versions. The R-rated OTT version became a hot topic from the very first episode, featuring an intense bed scene between lead actors Cha Joo-young and Lee Hyun-wook. The second episode also included scenes of nudity involving actress Lee Yi-dam.

Kbizoom | 17-Jan-25

Nigeria , Localization , Culture

Oscar Contender ‘Santosh’s’ India Release Delayed After Censorship Snag

The Indian theatrical release of “Santosh,” which landed on the Oscars‘ international feature shortlist, has been delayed due to an unexpected holdup at India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

Variety | 16-Jan-25

Localising tech platforms: Unlocking user engagement in Nigeria through cultural adaptation

Cultural Localization: Beyond Just Translation, Localization is more than just slapping on subtitles or offering a Yoruba version of your app. It’s about creating a sense of belonging—a feeling that this platform gets us.

The Daily Times | 16-Jan-25

Cinema Express | 16-Jan-25

Game Changer controversy: AP Local TV staff held for airing the film's pirated version

The Game Changer team had earlier filed a complaint with cybercrime team about a negative social media campaign planned against their film. The Ram Charan-starrer film has been the victim of piracy since the day of its release, with an HD version of the film being leaked online.

Bangladesh , Censorship , Politics

Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency banned in Bangladesh due to ‘ongoing political dynamics’ with India

Reportedly, earlier, Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 was also prohibited from being released in Bangladesh. However films like Kartik Aaryan and Vidya Balan's Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor's Stree 2 were brought to the neighbouring country.

The Indian Express | 15-Jan-25

International , Nintendo , Localization , Culture

To release Animal Crossing in the West, Nintendo ‘had to change everything’

It’s standard for a game to tone down or change cultural references in the localization process, but the original Dōbutsu no Mori is painted especially thick with Japanese elements — so much so that even its own Japanese players might not catch all the references.

Polygon | 14-Jan-25

Mexico , Censorship , Religion , LGBTQ

“Conclave”: Why is the Film Being Banned in the Vatican? A Catholic Controversy

The provocative film Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, has ignited a fiery debate within the Vatican and among Catholic faithful. With a storyline brimming with secrets, intrigue, and uncomfortable questions, this political drama—based on Robert Harris’s novel—is being accused of challenging the foundations of Catholicism and casting the Vatican in a deeply unfavorable light.

Cultura Colectiva | 13-Jan-25

US , Localization , Culture

Who shaved Hitler’s mustache? The localizer

Why localization and culturalization matter now more than ever.

Polygon | 13-Jan-25

StreamTV Insider | 13-Jan-25

Studios and streamers' next measurement need and challenge: content

Ads and audience may have been all the measurement rage over the past few years, helping to foster an emergent crop of vendors supporting the evolving ecosystem in the process. But there’s another aspect key to studios and streamers that has largely gone neglected and been on the backburner in the measurement and analytics space: content.

US , TikTok , Regulation , Mental Health

AG Paxton Sues TikTok For Downplaying Mature Content

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Thursday sued TikTok for downplaying the prevalence of mature content on the app and for failing to warn minors of the risks it could pose for mental health.

Reform Austin | 13-Jan-25

US , Regulation , Government , Sexuality

Challenge to Texas age-verification on porn sites comes to Supreme Court

A trade group for the adult entertainment industry will appear at the Supreme Court on Wednesday in its challenge to a Texas law that requires pornography sites to verify the age of their users before providing access – for example, by requiring a government-issued identification. The law applies to any website whose content is one-third or more “harmful to minors” – a definition that the challengers say would include most sexually suggestive content, from nude modeling to romance novels and R-rated movies.

SCOTUSblog | 13-Jan-25

US , Entertainment Business , Culture

Enchanting Adaptations

Among an ever-growing array of platforms across Latin America, entertainment formats continue to find audiences in the region.

World Screen | 13-Jan-25

UK , Trigger Warning

Trigger warnings fire me up

Don’t spoil books and films for the sake of a minority.

The Critic | 13-Jan-25

China , Government , Censorship

China’s censorship goes global — from secret police stations to video games

2025 is off to a repressive start, from secret police stations in New York to persecution in Russia, Kenya, and more.

FIRE | 13-Jan-25

India , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , CBFC

How Censorship is Killing Creativity in Movies and Web Series

Indian Censor board is removing words, scenes, and even dialogues from the films and web-series which has left filmmakers and audiences frustrated with the extreme censorship.

The Filmy Charcha | 12-Jan-25

Philippines , Censorship , Misrepresentation

Why One Country Banned Nearly All Of Claire Danes' Movies

It's one thing to visit another country as an exchange student, and quite another to do so as a burgeoning movie star who's making a major studio film.

Slash Film | 12-Jan-25

New Zealand , Netflix , Streaming Platforms

Big budget, small town: Florence Pugh turns heads as Netflix films down south

A classic of American literature is being adapted into a Netflix series, starring Florence Pugh, and with parts of New Zealand as its backdrop.

Newstalk ZB | 12-Jan-25

China , Government , Censorship , Politics

‘The Flash’ Director Andy Muschietti Says the Film Flopped Because ‘It Wasn’t a Movie That Appealed to the Four-Quadrants. It Failed at That’

“The Flash” director Andy Muschietti has his own thoughts as to why the $200 million tentpole was a box office dud.

Variety | 12-Jan-25

The Departed Getting Banned In China, Explained

Martin Scorsese’s The Departed is widely regarded as one of the 21st century's finest films. The gripping, high-stakes cop-and-mob crime thriller is a modern classic, even earning the legendary director his long-overdue Best Director Oscar at the 2007 Academy Awards, alongside three additional trophies, including one for Best Picture. But for all its acclaim, the film was conspicuous in its absence in one of the world’s largest movie markets—China.

MSN | 10-Jan-25

International , Censorship , Regulation , Hate Speech

It’s not censorship to stop hateful online content, insists UN rights chief

Social media posts inciting hate and division have “real world consequences” and there is a responsibility to regulate content, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, insisted on Friday, following Meta’s decision to end its fact-checking programme in the United States.

United Nations | 10-Jan-25

France , Entertainment Business , Localization , CNC

Crime, comedy and The Count of Monte-Cristo: French flock to cinemas … to watch homegrown films

Cinephiles and industry insiders explain why the most-watched films in 2024 were made in France

The Guardian | 10-Jan-25

US , TikTok , Censorship , Government

How a TikTok Ban Could Affect Filmmakers

If the Supreme Court passes an official TikTok ban it could influence our filmmaking in more ways than we think.

No Film School | 10-Jan-25

US , Netflix , Backlash

Here's why an Oscar-winning filmmaker's 9-hour Prince documentary may never be shown

An Oscar-winning filmmaker has put together a nine-hour documentary trying to answer the essential question of who Prince really was. But there's a good chance it will never be released to the public.

CBS News | 10-Jan-25

Japan , Government , Regulation , Discrimination

Government to name and shame AI misusers; no criminal charges

To combat disinformation and discriminatory biases associated with artificial intelligence, (Japanese) government officials are considering new regulations aimed at naming and shaming AI companies responsible for serious human rights violations.

The Asahi Shimbun | 10-Jan-25

The Colorado Sun | 10-Jan-25

Colorado lawmakers offer $34 million in tax incentives to land the Sundance Film Festival

A bill proposed this week would offer $3 million a year to a “global film festival entity” that moves to Colorado. The Sundance Institute says Boulder is one of three potential hosts for the country’s largest film festival.

Syria , Censorship , Government

Effectively Banned by the Government, a Syrian Film Resurfaces

“Stars in Broad Daylight,” with a domineering character who strongly resembles Hafez al-Assad, had one official showing in Damascus. Now it’s been restored.

The New York Times | 9-Jan-25

UK , Censorship , ASA , Religion

‘Offensive’ halal investment ads banned by UK watchdog

Adverts by Muslim investment company Wahed Invest have been banned in the UK after a watchdog deemed the images of burning banknotes “offensive.”

5 Pillars | 9-Jan-25

Italy , New Release , Backlash

Russian propaganda films to screen in Italy, Ukraine responds

This winter, various cities in Italy are set to host screenings of two Russian propaganda films, "Children of Donbas" and "Maidan, the Road to War." Ukraine's State Film Agency has called on the Ukrainian embassy to intervene and prevent their public showing.

Espreso | 9-Jan-25

Poland , Backlash , Misrepresentation

Polish director uses AI to create controversial biopic about Putin

Polish filmmaker Patryk Vega has drawn global attention with a controversial new film about Vladimir Putin that uses artificial intelligence to superimpose the Russian leader’s face onto an actor.

TVP World | 8-Jan-25

Columbia , Localization , Culture , Drugs

Breaking Bad's weird, completely official Colombian remake

Move over, Narcos – Colombia has an even more iconic cultural exploit you've never heard of. Also about drugs, coincidentally. Remaking shows entirely is one of the rarer forms of localization, likely due to the expense involved, but it does happen from time to time.

Boing Boing | 8-Jan-25

Hong Kong , Regulation , OFNAA

Broadcasting and media regulation in Hong Kong: An overview

The Film Censorship Authority's powers include considering films submitted and issuing certificates of exemption and approval before exhibition. What are the rules and regulations that govern their activities?

Tanner De Witt | 8-Jan-25

The Indian Express | 8-Jan-25

Kangana Ranaut opens up about CBFC cuts to Emergency: ‘The film wasn’t made to mock anyone’

Actor-director Kangana Ranaut recently shared her thoughts on the changes proposed by the CBFC to her new movie “Emergency.”

International , Entertainment Business

‘Over-reliance’ on AI risks ‘destroying credibility’ of the influencer industry, says Komodo’s Freddie Strange

The rise of AI-generated characters raises “serious questions” about the future of trust and authenticity in social media, according to Freddie Strange, co-founder of social and influencer agency Komodo.

C21 Media | 8-Jan-25

Hungary , Entertainment Business , Misrepresentation

Women’s Body Image Influenced by Unattainable Beauty Standards in the Media, Analysis Confirms

The National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) has investigated the impact of media, including tabloids and women’s magazines, on women’s body image.

Hungarian Conservative | 7-Jan-25

Vietnam , Regulation

Vietnam strengthens control of internet and civil society through new decrees

Tech companies are now required to verify users, while strict rules are imposed on associations.

Global Voices | 7-Jan-25

US , Backlash , Religion

“I Stand By It”: ‘Conclave’ Screenwriter Responds To Controversy Around The Film’s Ending

Peter Straughan, who just won the Golden Globe for Best Screenplay for Conclave, responded to negative feedback towards the film, specifically regarding its ending.

Mxdwn | 6-Jan-25

Vietnam , Censorship , Gambling

Nearly 400 unlicensed games and gambling games released in Vietnam have been removed.

In 2024, the Ministry of Information and Communications coordinated with functional units to scan and block advertising channels, gambling games, and prize exchange games on cyberspace.

Vietnam.vn | 6-Jan-25

Vietnam , Backlash , Defamation

Squid Game' season 2 met with backlash over Vietnam War reference

"Squid Game" season two, Netflix Korea's biggest show, is facing backlash from Vietnamese audiences over a remark that implied South Korean soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War achieved a commendable feat.

The Korea Herald | 6-Jan-25

India , Backlash , Censorship , Gore , Violence

‘Emergency’: New trailer for Kangana Ranaut’s film released post the CBFC required edits

The journey to bring Emergency to the big screen has not been without challenges. Initially slated for a 2024 release, the film faced delays due to objections raised by the Central Board of Film Certification. Controversial scenes were flagged, prompting a lengthy battle between Kangana and the board.

India Forums | 5-Jan-25

Huge Backlash for Marco: Disgusting & Shameful

Unni Mukundan’s most violent movie in India, “Marco,” released on December 20th, has received positive responses from the audience and is doing well in box office collections. However, a section of people is criticizing the censor board for allowing so much blood, gore, and violent scenes.

M9 News | 4-Jan-25

International , Google Play , Censorship , Gambling

Game That Inspired Balatro Faces Trouble on Google Play

As mentioned, “Balatro,” inspired by the “Trampoline Tales” game, has previously encountered similar issues because of its gambling-like aesthetics.

Gambling News | 3-Jan-25

Denmark , Regulation , Government , Ratings

What do Danish experts advise parents on kids’ use of screens?

In Denmark, screens are generally not advised for small children, and the education ministry is moving towards more restricted use of phones and tablets. What do experts advise for parents?

The Local DK | 2-Jan-25

Ireland , Regulation , Government , Ratings , IFCO

15 Complaints In 2024: Irish Film Classification Takes Heat For Garfield And Saltburn

KFM Radio | 2-Jan-25

Singapore , Censorship , Government , New Release , IMDA , Marco

Marco gets R21 rating in Singapore for violence, gore

The entertainment website OTTPlay reported that “Marco” has earned an R21 rating (restricted to persons aged 21 or above) from Singapore’s censor board, Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), with the advice of “strong violence and gore.”

Tabla | 2-Jan-25

UK , Channel 5 , Censorship , Backlash

Viewers furious as Crocodile Dundee gets a ‘woke’ edit with famous scenes cut from iconic Aussie megahit

A number of the beloved movie's most famous scenes were cut for the broadcast.

7 News | 2-Jan-25

Vietnam , Regulation , Government , MIC , Gambling

Over 900 websites banned for advertising in Vietnam in 2024

The Ministry of Information and Communications has listed 904 websites as law violators for 2024, recommending businesses avoid advertising on these platforms.

Vietnamnet.vn | 1-Jan-25

India , Government , Censorship , CBFC , Religion , Politics , Smoking

CBFC censors hijab-burning scene in 'Seed of the Sacred Fig'

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) recently demanded edits for Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof's political thriller, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig.” While some changes were standard procedures like disclaimers about smoking and subtitle additions, one demand has stirred controversy. The CBFC has removed scenes depicting hijab burning, an act symbolizing resistance in Iran's “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement.

Newsbytes | 30-Dec-24

South Korea , Netflix , SBS , Disney+ , Localization , Streaming Platforms

Netflix partners with SBS for local content as Korean OTTs face competition

Netflix expands its influence in Korea by collaborating with SBS to enhance local program offerings while competitors struggle.

Chosun Biz | 30-Dec-24

Vietnam , Google Play , AppStore , Government , Regulation , Censorship , Gambling , Minor Safety

Vietnam tightens control over illegal, harmful online games

Decree 147, the Vietnamese government’s regulation of the management, supply, and use of Internet services and online games, took effect on December 25. It aims to curb unlicensed gambling and harmful games distributed through online app stores.

Tuoi Tre News | 30-Dec-24

Nigeria , Spotify , New Release , Culture , Entertainment Business

Nigerian entertainment industry in 2024: Year of drama, tragedies, breakthroughs

2024 has been a year unlike any other for the Nigerian entertainment industry, marked by remarkable achievements and challenges that shaped and reshaped the industry. However, despite the challenges and controversies, the industry witnessed significant breakthroughs, record-breaking feats, and international recognition.

Vangaurd | 28-Dec-24

Egypt , Censorship , SCMR , Religion

Advertisements Banned on Religious TV Shows Starting January 11th

Egypt’s Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR) has announced a series of decisions to regulate the content of religious TV programs, aiming to ensure they “fulfil their intended mission of fostering ethical and moral values in society,” according to an official statement. Key measures include a ban on all forms of advertisements during the airing of religious programs. Advertisements will only be allowed before the program begins or after it ends.

CairoScene | 25-Dec-24

US , Backlash , Censorship

Amazon Studios blasted for censoring scenes in Christmas classic ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’

Amazon Prime Studios is taking heat on Christmas for censoring a key scene in the classic Christmas film, It’s a Wonderful Life with many saying the edits make the movie nonsensical and eliminates one of the most important bits of character development in the film.

Breitbart | 25-Dec-24

Vietnam , Netflix , Censorship , Streaming Platforms

Netflix stops providing TV shows in Vietnam

Netflix is only allowed to provide movies that have been classified and notified to the state management agency of cinema, and does not provide TV programs in Vietnam. Netflix has also agreed to comply with the request to remove all infringing content. The company also pledged to only distribute films that have been censored and reported in accordance with cinema law.

Vietnam.vn | 23-Dec-24

India , Backlash , Defamation

Congress leader's complaint against Allu Arjun over urination scene in Pushpa 2

Theenmar Mallanna raised objections to a controversial scene in the recently-released second movie franchise in which the protagonist, played by Allu Arjun, is shown urinating in a swimming pool with a police officer present in it.

India Today | 23-Dec-24

Vietnam , Regulation , Government

Vietnam Imposes Mandatory Verification For Social Media Accounts

The Vietnamese government has officially mandated the verification of social media accounts as part of its effort to improve online safety and information integrity. Starting from December 25, 2024, only verified accounts will be permitted to post articles, share information, or comment on various social media platforms.

The Pinnacle Gazette | 23-Dec-24

Kenya , Entertainment Business , KFCB

Filmmakers now urged to focus on producing family-friendly content

KFCB has urged filmmakers to focus on producing family-friendly content that can be monetised. During a media briefing at the Creative in Arts and Film Literacy (CAFIL) Programme forum held at the Golf Hotel in Kakamega County, KFCB’s Acting CEO, Paskal Martin Opiyo, emphasised the advantages of creating audio-visual content rated GE

People Daily | 23-Dec-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Violence , Politics

CBFC censors references of Lal Bahadur Shastri and Phule from Varun Dhawan's 'Baby John', cuts down on violent scenes; here's its final runtime

Some dialogue and references have also been asked to change. A mention of Lal Bahadur Shastri was also removed and replaced with something else. Some violent action scenes in the film have also been asked to tone down.

The Times of India | 22-Dec-24

India , Censorship , Backlash

Pushpa 2: Despite being blockbuster, Allu Arjun’s film REMOVED from theatres in North India due to.., and then…

Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna-starrer Pushpa 2: The Rule landed in a controversy following which all its shows got removed from theatres in North India.

India.com | 21-Dec-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Government , Regulation , Drugs

Government Tightens Grip on OTT: Drug-Related Scenes Under Scrutiny

In a bid to curb the unrestricted flow of controversial content on Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, the Central Government has issued new guidelines aimed at regulating the portrayal of drug-related scenes in web series and films. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has warned platforms against inadvertently promoting or glorifying drug use without proper disclaimers or warnings, citing its adverse effects on the audience, particularly the youth.

Punekar News | 20-Dec-24

India , Censorship , Government , CBFC , Violence , Politics

CBFC instructs Viduthalai Part 2 makers to remove caste mentions, mute 'government'

Last year, director Vetrimaaran’s Viduthalai Part 1 was granted an ‘A’ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after the makers muted several expletives. As Viduthalai Part 2 hits the screens today, it has been learned that the CBFC came down hard on the Vijay Sethupathi-starrer. Sources say that the makers were instructed to snip mentions of caste in some scenes and remove references to real-life political parties.

Mid-Day | 20-Dec-24

Hungary , Netherlands , Regulation , Ratings , CVDM , LGBTQ

Hungarian Media Authority Floods Dutch Regulators with Complaints Over LGBT+ Content

The Dutch media regulator CvdM is facing a surge of complaints from Hungary regarding LGBT+ content in films and TV series. The Hungarian media authority NMHH often disagrees with Dutch assessments of the minimum age rating for programs featuring LGBT+ characters. In Hungary, a law prohibits “LGBT+ propaganda” for minors.

OUTtv | 18-Dec-24

Europe , Ratings , Backlash , PEGI , Gambling

Developer of the card game Balatro criticizes strange age classification

Balatro's developer criticizes its PEGI rating of 18+. The card-based roguelite is rated strictly because of “evil playing cards,” while games like EA Sports PC—despite gambling loot boxes—are released for ages three and up.

Research Snipers | 18-Dec-24

US , TikTok , Government , Censorship

U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Challenges to Federal TikTok Ban

The U.S. Supreme Court announced today that it will hear constitutional challenges to the proposed federal TikTok ban. The Court has scheduled oral arguments for January 10, 2025, just days before the ban takes effect on January 19, 2025, one day before the presidential inauguration.

Liberty Justice Center | 18-Dec-24

India , Government , Streaming Platforms , MIB , Drugs

Indian government wants streamers to develop a social conscience

Stop making shows and films that glamorize substance abuse or self-harm, warns the MIB.

Indian Television | 18-Dec-24

US , Disney+ , Censorship , LGBTQ

Disney Pulls Transgender Storyline from Pixar’s ‘Win or Lose’ Streaming Series (Exclusive)

Pixar’s original animated series “Win or Lose” will no longer include a transgender storyline in a later episode.

The Hollywood Reporter | 17-Dec-24

International , Regulation , Ratings , Gambling

Loot Box State of Play 2024: Another trip around the world of regulation

Researcher Leon Y. Xiao updates us on legislative developments in key markets worldwide regarding divisive monetization methods.

GamesIndustry | 17-Dec-24

Malaysia , Censorship , Government , MCMC , Free Speech

Online safety or censorship? Malaysia’s parliament passes two contentious media bills

The Malaysian parliament passed the Online Safety Bill and a measure amending the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA) amid concerns from civil society groups that these would stifle free speech in the country.

Global Voices | 16-Dec-24

US , Backlash , LGBTQ

Controversy Erupts Over “Wicked” Film Adaptation as Kristin Chenoweth Defends Against Boycott

The widely anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked” is the subject of a cultural discussion. Kristin Chenoweth, a Broadway star, has spoken up to defend the film against a boycott coordinated by the hardline group One Million Moms.

Gazettely | 15-Dec-24

UK , Classification , BBFC

Girl designs classification card for new Sonic film

She may only be nine years old, but Ruby, from Leicester, has made it to the big screen through her love of painting. Ruby won a competition to design the PG age card that will appear before “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” premiered in the UK on Tuesday.

BBC | 14-Dec-24

International , Subs and Dubs , Localization

IMAX Expands Global Reach With Camb.AI’s AI Speech Translation in 140+ Languages

IMAX is taking a bold step toward revolutionizing content localization with the power of artificial intelligence (AI). The Canadian theater giant recently partnered with Dubai-based startup Camb.ai to integrate its AI speech translation models into original content, including documentaries. This move comes as IMAX looks to scale its reach and engage more viewers worldwide, particularly as demand for non-English content surges.

eWeek | 14-Dec-24

Malaysia , Regulation , Government

Establishing a Media Council Must be Accompanied by Legal Reforms

The long-anticipated establishment of the Malaysian Media Council (MMC) is edging closer to reality. Recently, YB Fahmi Fadzil, the Spokesperson for the Unity Government and Minister of Communications, announced that the MMC Bill had secured Cabinet approval and would soon be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat.

Thoughts Bernama | 13-Dec-24

Germany , Regulation , Government , Ratings , Sexuality

Minors' protection: State leaders mandate filters for operating systems

On Thursday, the heads of government of the federal states decided to reform the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media (JMStV) at the Conference of Minister Presidents in Berlin. The aim is to install porn filters at the elementary level of PCs, laptops, and smartphones and introduce age labeling for websites and apps.

Heise | 13-Dec-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Religious Gods

Central Board Of Film Certification deletes THESE controversial scenes from Hugh Grant starrer Heretic

The Central Board Of Film Certification has been extremely cautious when it comes to the portrayal of religious deities in Cinema.

The Times of India | 12-Dec-24

Asia , Disney+ , Localization

Disney leans on localization to win over China and APAC audiences

With its latest slate, Disney aims to balance global appeal and local resonance in its approach to the APAC region.

Kr Asia | 11-Dec-24

International , Netflix , Backlash , Religion

Netflix's Controversial Bible Film Is a Streaming Hit

Talk about controversy. Palestinian supporters and Christians are in arms over Netflix's new Christmas film, “Mary.”

MovieWeb | 11-Dec-24

Ireland , Regulation , ASA , Gambling

Regulators draw up dual system to supervise gambling advertising in Ireland

The Irish Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), the advertising industry’s self-regulatory organization, has developed plans to streamline complaints related to gambling adverts. The new legislation bans gambling advertising on television and radio between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. and introduces a range of other restrictions.

Focus Gaming News | 11-Dec-24

Australia , Censorship , Classification , ACB

Hunter X Hunter Nen X Impact Has Been Banned In Australia

Hunter x Hunter Nen x Impact is effectively banned in Australia after being refused classification.

MSN | 8-Dec-24

US , TikTok , Censorship , Government

TikTok set to be banned in the US after losing appeal

TikTok's bid to overturn a law which would see it banned or sold in the US from early 2025 has been rejected. The social media company had hoped a federal appeals court would agree with its argument that the law was unconstitutional because it represented a "staggering" impact on the free speech of its 170 million US users.

BBC | 6-Dec-24

US , Culture , Entertainment Business

How Entertainment is Evolving: The Role of Technology and Media in Modern Culture

Entertainment has always played a significant role in shaping culture, providing escapism, and fostering human connection. However, with the rapid advancements in technology and the explosion of digital media, the entertainment landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace.

El Estoque | 5-Dec-24

Saudi Arabia , Censorship , Religious Gods

Pushpa 2: The Rule releases to rave reviews, But Saudi Arabia screens a censored version

The film 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' directed by Sukumar has been released in theatres today and it is getting a great response from the audience. People are praising the film on social media. However, the audience in Saudi Arabia will get to see this film in a truncated version. According to media reports, the censor board of Saudi Arabia has objected to some scenes of the film and has removed them.

Peeping Moon | 5-Dec-24

Deccan Chronicle | 4-Dec-24

Telangana HC rejects plea against Pushpa 2 release

Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya of the Telangana High Court dismissed a writ plea seeking a ban on the film “Pushpa 2: The Rule” and imposed exemplary costs of Rs 1 lakh on the petitioner. The judge dealt with a writ plea filed by Sararapu Srisailam, a social worker, challenging the certification granted to the film and seeking a direction for its non-release for public viewing or in theatres.

Kuwait , Censorship , LGBTQ

‘Wicked’ Removed From Cinema Listings in Kuwait, Local Media Speculates It’s Because of LGBTQ Cast

“Wicked” has been removed from cinema listings in Kuwait on the eve of its local theatrical release in what Variety understands is an evolving issue, prompting fears that it could become the latest Hollywood import to be banned in the Gulf state. The country previously banned “Barbie” to protect “public ethics.” Some local media have speculated that the move was prompted by the fact that the Universal Pictures’ critically-acclaimed musical boasts an LGBTQ cast.

Variety | 4-Dec-24

South Korea , Paramount+ , Streaming Platforms , New Launch

Paramount+ To Launch On South Korea’s Coupang Play

Paramount Global Content Distribution has struck a licensing agreement with Korean e-commerce giant Coupang to launch a Paramount+ branded destination on the service. It will become available on Coupang Play early next year.

Deadline | 3-Dec-24

UK , Censorship , Politics

UK blocks access to pro-Palestinian first-person shooter video game

A recent update out last month allows players to re-create parts of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. A trailer for the update showed Hamas fighters using paragliders to enter an Israeli base and a Hamas fighter shooting a female Israeli soldier.

Straight Arrow News | 3-Dec-24

UK , Backlash , Trigger Warning , BBFC , Discrimination

Trigger Warning At Cinemas Before Wicked Sparks Outrage

The highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of Wicked has ignited discussions across social media, not only for its cast and storytelling but for an official trigger warning issued in the United Kingdom.

IGV | 2-Dec-24

Turkey , Censorship , LGBTQ

Luca Guadagnino On Queer Ban In Turkey: Wonder If They’ve Seen The Movie

Director Luca Guadagnino, whose latest film "Queer" was banned in Turkey last month, called out authorities for "obtuse censorship" and pledged to fight the institution that wants to tarnish the "inevitable powers" of cinema.

Republic World | 2-Dec-24

Vietnam , Regulation , Government

Vietnam set to impose stricter rules for social media, news aggregator sites

Decree 147/2024/ND-CP aims to regulate live-streaming, content production, and revenue-generating activities on digital platforms, ensuring transparency and alignment with legal standards. According to the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information (under the Ministry of Information and Communications), only social media platforms with official licences will be permitted to livestream and engage in revenue-generating activities.

Asia News Network | 2-Dec-24

Vietnam , Regulation , Government , MIC , Gambling

Vietnam tightens online gaming rules, bans casino-style and card-based games

Vietnam has introduced stringent measures under Decree 147 to regulate online gaming, including banning casino-style and card-based games to protect players and curb negative social impacts.

Vietnamnet | 29-Nov-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Violence , Profanity

Pushpa 2 Epic Runtime Confirmed, Graphic Violence And Abusive Language Censored By CBFC

Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil starrer Pushpa 2: The Rule has completed its censor formalities ahead of its grand theatrical debut on December 5. The film has been issued a U/A certificate by the CBFC. However, the Sukumar directorial has been advised to alter some scenes before release.

Republic World | 29-Nov-24

US , Netflix , Ratings , Classification , Violence , Profanity

Netflix makes big change to Stranger Things ahead of Season 5

The age rating for the show on Netflix has flipped from TV-14 to TV-MA.

Gaming Bible | 28-Nov-24

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , NFVCB

NFVCB partners arts and culture ministry, to train aspiring filmmakers in universities

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), in collaboration with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, has organised a two-day media literacy and capacity-building programme to train aspiring filmmakers in tertiary institutions.

Premium Times | 28-Nov-24

UK , Trigger Warning , BBFC , Discrimination

Wicked slapped with huge trigger warning over ‘green-skinned’ discrimination

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has slapped a trigger warning on the blockbuster hit Wicked for discrimination against a “green-skinned woman”.

Express UK | 28-Nov-24

Nigeria , Backlash , LGBTQ

Yemi Solade under fire over controversial same-sex movie role

The Nollywood film ‘5 Alive’ has got people talking, with actor Yemi Solade at the centre of the debate due to his portrayal of a gay character. The footage from the film’s showing on The Salamis TV YouTube channel featured a scene where Solade and Izihaq shared a tender moment, portraying their characters as lovers.

Premium Times | 27-Nov-24

US , Regulation , Government , Censorship , Mental Health

Protecting kids online or social media censorship?: The year-end push for and against the Kids Online Safety Act

Attorneys general from 30 states (and from both political parties) are pressing Congress to pass a measure aimed at protecting kids from harmful content online. But free speech advocates worry the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) will lead to censorship, including restricting controversial and unpopular speech that should enjoy First Amendment protections.

Wyoming News | 27-Nov-24

France , Streaming Platforms , Entertainment Business

Netflix, Disney+ Face Calls for Greater Transparency as French Regulators Herald Streamer Integration

As global platforms make greater inroads into the French market, local regulators could now push for a rise in transparency. Responding to concerns from local producer unions – who feel that negotiating without a fuller economic understanding levies them with an unfair disadvantage – administrators from France’s broadcasting regulatory authority (Arcom) are currently examining a legislative workaround to the trade secrets protections that keep streaming data opaque.

Variety | 26-Nov-24

India , Backlash , Defamation

Web Series ‘Undekhi-2’ Runs Into Controversy Over ‘Insult’ To Bengalis

A fresh controversy has erupted in the entertainment industry following a legal notice served to Sameer Nair, Managing Director of Applause Entertainment, by advocate Nripendra Krishna Roy on behalf of social activist Amritlal Das. The notice, addressed to Nair and co-producers of the popular web series Undekhi-2, alleges the use of a derogatory phrase targeting the Bengali community.

Bizz Buzz | 26-Nov-24

China , Censorship , Government , LGBTQ

China censors queer romance in Arcane: League of Legends

The Chinese release of Arcane: League of Legends has reportedly censored romantic scenes between two female characters Vi and Caitlyn. The scene shows Vi and Caitlyn having a heartfelt conversation and cuddling up to one another, however the Chinese version has the two characters spaced apart through awkward editing. Caitlyn becomes a nondescript blur in some parts and is wholly removed in others, giving the appearance that they’re maintaining a CCP-approved distance from one another.

Niche Gamer | 26-Nov-24

France , Streaming Platforms , Censorship , Horror

Banned horror film that made viewers ill is now available to stream

Terrifier 3, one of the year’s most controversial and talked about horror films, is now available on streaming just months after causing hysteria in cinemas.

Independent | 26-Nov-24

Australia , Censorship , ACB , Sexual Violence , Drugs

The Hunter x Hunter fighting game just got banned in Australia

The Australian Classification Board (ACB) – the group in charge of classifying games for release in Australia – revealed that Hunter x Hunter Nen x Impact has been refused classification (RC), preventing it from being sold.

Sports Illustrated | 26-Nov-24

Istanbul , Backlash , Censorship

Hollywood faces backlash over censorship of Palestinian support in Gladiator 2

The highly anticipated film Gladiator 2 has sparked controversy after scenes featuring Palestinian-Egyptian actress May Calamawy were reportedly cut due to her vocal support for Palestine.

AA | 26-Nov-24

India , Trigger Warning , CBFC , Violence

Sookshmadarshini: CBFC introduces a disclaimer about violence against women

Those watching the Malayalam film, Sookshmadarshini, will notice a new disclaimer in a scene in the Nazriya Nazim and Basil Joseph-starrer. It reads, ‘Warning: Violence against women’. mid-day has learnt that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has introduced this disclaimer in scenes depicting any form of violence against women. It’s said to be the result of almost a year-long discussion following the controversy sparked by Animal’s (2023) release.

MSN | 25-Nov-24

South Korea , Disney+ , Streaming Platforms , Globalization

Disney Plus bets big on Korean content to boost global presence

Disney Plus, a global over-the-top (OTT) platform, is expanding its lineup of original Korean titles, buoyed by the popularity of K-drama series worldwide. The move suggests Disney's willingness to go up against Netflix Inc., which has been scaling up its offerings from Korean artists.

The Korea Economic Daily | 25-Nov-24

The Washington Times | 25-Nov-24

Trump’s pick for FCC chair says fighting censorship is his No. 1 priority

President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to chair the Federal Communications Commission said Monday he wants to “smash the censorship cartel” to rebuild trust in media sources and ensure broadcasters serve the public interest.

India , Censorship , CBFC , Violence , Drugs

Banned in 2003, This Controversial Yet Acclaimed Hindi Thriller is Finally Releasing in 2025

Back in the early ‘00s, the film got into censor trouble and was asked by the CBFC to delete and modify certain scenes as they raised objection due to disturbing violence and the depiction of drug abuse. But, now after 22 years, the film is finally getting a theatrical release.

MensXP | 25-Nov-24

India , Ratings , Classification , CBFC

CBFC Introduces New Film Rating Categories to Guide Parents on Children’s Movie Choices

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has recently made significant changes to the film rating system for children’s content, aiming to help parents make informed decisions about which movies are suitable for their kids. Under the new guidelines, the CBFC has introduced three new sub-categories within the UA (Universal Adult) category, ensuring more age-appropriate classification for young viewers.

Bollywood Mascot | 25-Nov-24

International , Playstation , Regulation , New Launch , TESRI

One of Sony's surprises has been revealed: the company is preparing a free My First Gran Turismo racing game for release

The Taiwanese Qualifications Commission has given an age rating to a certain project called My First Gran Turismo.

Gagadget | 25-Nov-24

China , New Tech , Morality

What are China’s new guidelines on artificial intelligence regulation?

China’s new guidelines on AI regulation set a higher bar for ethical, secure and transparent AI development

CBBC | 25-Nov-24

Japan , Regulation , Government

The cutting edge of gaming and e-sports in Japan

With minimal regulation, Japan is at the forefront of the gaming industry. The e-sports industry has experienced a steady increase in both the number of players and the frequency of tournaments, with events of various sizes growing in popularity year after year. However, the organization of e-sports tournaments remains burdened by significant regulatory challenges, particularly in relation to cash prizes.

Law.asia | 22-Nov-24

Japan , Regulation , Government

The cutting edge of gaming and e-sports in Japan

There are also no specific legal restrictions on selling games to minors. However, due to the potential impact of game content on minors, many game software manufacturers have voluntarily joined self-regulatory organizations such as the Ethics Organization of Computer Software (EOCS) or the Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO).

Law.asia | 22-Nov-24

India , Government , Regulation , Censorship , CBFC

SC to hear in January plea raising issue concerning pre-censorship of films

The Supreme Court will hear a plea in January 2025 challenging the pre-censorship of films. Filed by Amol Palekar, the plea argues that documentaries are not covered under the Cinematograph Act's definition of 'cinematograph' and that pre-censorship is irrelevant in the internet age.

Times of India | 20-Nov-24

US , Localization , Subs and Dubs

Screen Actors Guild’s New Game Localization Contract Limits AI Use for Dubbing

On November 14, 2024, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) announced an updated version of a previous agreement that covers the localization of video game projects produced in a non-English language.

Slator | 20-Nov-24

International , Netflix , Backlash , Religious Gods

Netflix's 'Mary' attracts social media backlash for casting Israeli actress as mother of Jesus

A new Biblical epic coming to Netflix this Christmas is garnering online backlash because of the film's Israeli cast.

Fox News | 20-Nov-24

India , Censorship , Streaming Platforms , CBFC , LGBTQ

Onir on censorship on OTT: Platforms want films to first go through CBFC

Filmmaker Onir’s latest outing, “We Are Faheem & Karun,” premiered at the Dharamshala International Film Festival. The queer love story, set against the stunning backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir, is presented by filmmaker Deepa Mehta. While Onir hopes for a theatrical release soon, he expresses concerns about the creeping threat of silent censorship, particularly on OTT platforms, which are generally perceived as more liberal with content.

Hindustan TImes | 19-Nov-24

International , Censorship

Roblox updates its safety systems and parental controls under outside pressure

Under outside pressure, Roblox announced updates to its safety systems and parental controls today to protect children.

GamesBeat | 18-Nov-24

US , Ratings , New Release , MPAA

James Gunn Confirms DCU on the Cusp of Greenlighting Multiple R-Rated Projects

Gunn went on to say that, “It’s not about testing out to see if this thing works. It’s just about telling a story. If a story is going to be R-rated, we’re totally okay with that. If it’s going to be PG, PG-13, or G, I don’t care whatever is worthy of the story, that’s what we’re going to do.”

Comicbook | 18-Nov-24

Vietnam , Government , Regulation

Vietnam Issues New Decree Governing Internet Services And Online Information

On November 9, 2024, the government of Vietnam promulgated Decree No. 147/2024/ND-CP on the management, provision, and use of internet services and online information ("Decree 147"). This decree supersedes the previous Decree No. 72/2013/ND-CP dated July 15, 2013, on the same topic ("Decree 72") and its amending regulations and will take effect on December 25, 2024.

Mondaq | 18-Nov-24

India , Ratings , Censorship , CBFC , Violence , Sexism

‘Gladiator II’ Censor Board Report: Two Scenes of Violence, Sexist Slur Removed From Ridley Scott’s New Movie in India; Passed With U/A Rating

“Gladiator II” is set to release in India on November 15. While the film carries an R rating in the USA, it is releasing in India with a U/A rating (the Indian equivalent of a PG-13 rating in the USA). The reason behind this more lenient classification is that the CBFC removed certain scenes.

Latest LY | 13-Nov-24

UK , Ratings , BBFC , Violence

Return of the Jedi rating changed over violence

“Star Wars Episode VI: Return Of The Jedi” has had its rating upgraded from a U to a PG because of its violence and a scene showing Han Solo frozen in carbonite.

BBC | 13-Nov-24

Australia , Government , Censorship , Mental Health

Online games should not be included in Australia’s social media ban – they are crucial for kids’ social lives

The Australian government has announced a plan to ban children under the age of 16 from social media. With bipartisan support, it’s likely to be passed by the end of the year.

The Conversation | 12-Nov-24

Vietnam , Government , Regulation

Players under 18 cannot exceed 60-minute playtime per game

According to a new government decree, game distributors must ensure that players under 18 cannot spend more than 60 minutes a day on a single game.

VN Express | 12-Nov-24

Russia , Censorship , Defamation

Russia Blocks Screenings of New Trump Biopic

The Vedomosti business newspaper reported that a new film about Donald Trump will not be shown in Russian movie theaters after its local distributor failed to receive a screening license from the authorities.

The Moscow Times | 12-Nov-24

Israel , Censorship , Religion

A ‘sci-fi documentary’ dreaming of peace got banned in Israel. Why?

“Lyd” follows turmoil in the controversial city, but also imagines an alternate, peaceful reality.

Forward | 11-Nov-24

India , Backlash , Misrepresentation

Tamil film Amaran condemned for its negative portrayal of Kashmiris

A Tamil film has sparked widespread controversy for portraying Kashmiri people in a negative light, misrepresenting the Kashmir conflict and labeling the struggle for self-determination as terrorism.

Kashmir Media Service | 11-Nov-24

US , Ratings

The Huge Problem with the PG-13 Genre

An in-depth look into the creation and legacy of the PG-13 genre, its effect on the Hollywood system, and its threat to the art of cinema.

YouTube | 10-Nov-24

Azerbaijan , Government

Azerbaijan Pressured Jordan to Drop Artsakh-Themed Film as Its Oscar Entry

Deadline reported that the Azerbaijani government pressured Jordan to withdraw Sareen Hairabedian’s documentary “My Sweet Land” as its official entry for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards.

Asbarez | 9-Nov-24

India , hoichoi , Zee5 , SonyLIV , Streaming Platforms , Culture , Government , MIB

OTT platforms go ‘family-friendly’ as govt mulls OTT broadcast policy

Cautious about content, fearing political backlash and stricter oversight, OTT platforms are increasing investments in slice-of-life and family programming— promoting responsible entertainment.

Storyboard 18 | 8-Nov-24

Turkey , Mubi , Censorship , LGBTQ

‘Queer’ Ban in Turkey Prompts Mubi to Cancel Festival in Country

Mubi has scrapped an entire festival it had planned in Turkey after local authorities banned a screening of Luca Guadagnino’s “Queer.”

Variety | 7-Nov-24

US , New Launch

Comcast Introduces New Cloud TV Platform for Media and Entertainment Companies

Comcast Technology Solutions (CTS) today revealed its new Cloud TV platform to the premium video industry worldwide. According to the announcement, Cloud TV offers a multi-platform TV experience, including both broadcast and OTT. It is delivered from the cloud through a managed 24/7 service.

Telecompetitor | 5-Nov-24

Singapore , Censorship , Classification , Government , IMDA

S’pore film about censorship barred; IMDA says it’s ‘likely to be prejudicial to national interests’

A film referencing a past local court case about a communist leader’s tombstone has been barred here after the authorities deemed it potentially illegal and “likely to be prejudicial to national interests.”

Singapore Law Watch | 4-Nov-24

US , TikTok , Censorship , Regulation , Mental Health

U.S. lawsuit potentially leading to a ‘TikTok ban’…again?

A group of 14 attorneys and a dozen states across the U.S. sued TikTok on October 1, 2024, following an over two-year investigation. The lawsuit involves the accusation that the trendy and engaging social media app is damaging children’s mental health and exploiting their lack of media literacy.

LSU Media | 4-Nov-24

India , Government , Subs and Dubs , CBFC

Delhi high court seeks CBFC stand on accessibility features in films

Delhi HC has sought the stand of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on a petition to ensure that films released after September 14 follow the accessibility guidelines for persons with hearing and visual disabilities.

The Times of India | 3-Nov-24

US , TikTok , Ratings , Classification

Apple urged TikTok to increase its age recommendations, redacted documents show

South Carolina's suit against TikTok unintentionally revealed past warnings from Apple about the platform's content.

Engadget | 31-Oct-24

Saudi Arabia , Censorship , Religion , LGBTQ

Ajay Devgn starrer 'Singham Again' and Kartik Aaryan starrer 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3' BANNED in Saudi Arabia for these reasons

Ajay Devgn's “Singham Again” and Kartik Aaryan's “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” have been banned in Saudi Arabia. ”Singham Again” faces a ban due to religious conflicts depicted in the film. “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” is banned because of homosexual references.

The Times of India | 31-Oct-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Religion

CBFC demands extensive cuts from ‘Singham Again’; Ramayana references clipped

Ahead of the film’s release, CBFC demanded several cuts and modifications in “Singham Again.” Seven minutes and seven seconds of footage have been deleted.

The Statesman | 30-Oct-24

Israel , Censorship , Government , Politics

Bibi Files, Unfavorable film about PM, banned in Israel, secures international distribution

Major distributors and streaming services avoid the documentary directed by Alexis Bloom and produced by Alex Gibney amid legal and public relations complexities, but viewers in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Asian markets will be able to see it.

Ynetnews | 30-Oct-24

Hungary , Entertainment Business , Mental Health

Idealized Online Images Affect Self-Confidence in Teenage Girls, Study Finds

According to a study by the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH), around half of teenage girls feel less attractive due to the images they see on social media. They are often unaware that the online world frequently presents a distorted reality. The research specifically examined the social media habits of 13–16-year-olds.

Hungarian Conservative | 30-Oct-24

Vietnam , Regulation , Government , MIC , Politics , Free Speech

Celebrities violating online conduct rules will face restrictions in Vietnam.

The Ministry of Information and Communications has announced plans to restrict media appearances for celebrities who violate legal or ethical standards online.

Vietnamnet | 28-Oct-24

China , iQIYI , Regulation , Streaming Platforms , MIC , Politics , Morality

Chinese broadcasting services provider required to strictly follow Vietnamese Law.

The Ministry of Information and Communications has requested iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment video services provider, to fully comply with local laws regarding cross-border paid streaming services.

Vietnamplus | 28-Oct-24

Bangladesh , Censorship , Ratings , MOI , Misrepresentation

Anonno Mamun’s ‘Makeup’ faces new ban by Appeals Committee

The film "Makeup," directed by Anonno Mamun, has been officially banned by the Appeals Committee under the newly enacted Certification Act of 2023, as announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The Daily Star | 27-Oct-24

India , Censorship , Ratings , CBFC , Profanity , LGBTQ

CBFC asks 'Girl You Know It’s True' filmmakers to edit out ‘gay’ word from a scene.

In the past few months, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has enthusiastically pulled out its scissors for many movies, from “Emergency” to “The Apprentice.” Now, there is an addition to the list with the biographical drama “Girl You Know It’s True.” Mid-day, the CBFC has instructed the makers to remove the word ‘gay’ from a scene, flagging it as potentially controversial.

Mid-Day | 27-Oct-24

International , Censorship , Government , BBFC , Politics , Violence

Film censorship risks emboldening those who threaten violence

Recent cinema screening cancellations have been fairly made in the interests of public safety - but does this further relinquish the voices of those seeking to expose injustice?

Index On Censorship | 25-Oct-24

Norway , Australia , France , Ratings , Regulation

Norway to increase minimum age limit on social media to 15 to protect children

Norway is to enforce a strict minimum age limit on social media of 15 as the government ramped up its campaign against tech companies it says are “pitted against small children’s brains.”

Guardian | 24-Oct-24

China , Censorship , Sex

Dan Da Dan Hit With The Kind Of Overseas Censorship Not Seen Since 4Kids' Infamous One Piece Dub

In a surprising twist, “Dan Da Dan” episode 3 has fallen victim to heavy censorship in China, sparking widespread debate among fans.

Screen Rant | 24-Oct-24

US , Ratings , Regulation , Classification , Politics

The Kids Online Safety Act Was a Good Start, But App Stores Need Accountability Too

Some states have passed laws requiring platforms to age-verify their users and obtain parental consent for kids to gain access. On the federal level, the Senate has passed the Kids Online Safety Act, which, among other things, imposes a duty of care on social media companies, obliging them to design their products to be safe for children.

Institute for Family Studies | 24-Oct-24

US , Ratings , Regulation , Backlash , Sex , Violence

Montana sues TikTok over alleged harm and deception targeting youth

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has initiated legal action against TikTok, accusing the platform of exposing children and teenagers to harmful content and engaging in deceptive practices.

Legal Newsline | 24-Oct-24

UK , Classification , Ratings , BBFC , Violence

Watership Down review – charming rabbit animation still has power to terrify

“Watership Down” was in the news recently because the British Board of Film Classification decided to up its rating from U to PG due to the red-in-tooth-and-claw violence that the film shows.

Guardian | 23-Oct-24

Australia , Classification , Regulation , Ratings , ACB , Violence

Australian classification law is notoriously tough on video games, with fickle rules determining how risky content can be depicted. If a film or television show available in Australia depicts drug use, that’s completely fine. If a video game includes drug use, its depiction is strictly controlled. It can’t be tied to benefits or rewards in gameplay at all, and if there is even a suggestion of drugs being useful, games are likely to be refused classification and not legally able to be sold within Australia.

#REF!

Games Hub | 23-Oct-24

US , Ratings , Backlash , Suicide

Mother sues tech company after 'Game of Thrones' AI chatbot allegedly drove son to suicide

The mother of a 14-year-old Florida boy is suing Google and a separate tech company she believes caused her son to commit suicide after he developed a romantic relationship with one of its AI bots using the name of a popular "Game of Thrones" character, according to the lawsuit.

USA Today | 23-Oct-24

India , Censorship , New Release , CBFC , Politics

Now India! Really?' The Apprentice Director Furious After Censorship Issues Delay Film's Release

The CBFC’s concerns reportedly stem from some of the film’s explicit scenes, particularly one depicting Trump in a controversial moment with his former wife, Ivana Trump.

News18 | 22-Oct-24

United Kingdom , Channel 4 , Trigger Warning

Halloween Bake Off episode given trigger warning by Channel 4

The show was labeled as “not suitable for younger viewers.”

The Telegraph | 21-Oct-24

Israel , Censorship , New Release , Backlash , Politics

Why was an S.F. Jewish Film Festival movie just banned in Israel?

On Oct. 10, Israeli police surrounded the Al Saraya Theater in Jaffa, ordering the cancellation of a planned screening of the Palestinian sci-fi documentary “Lyd” and detaining theater manager Mahmoud Abu Arisha for hours of questioning.

JWeekly | 21-Oct-24

Malaysia , Regulation , Censorship , Government , MCMC

Proposed 'online safety' law another censorship tool for Putrajaya, critics warn

The Online Safety Bill gives MCMC and the communications ministry far-reaching powers to block content under the pretext of protecting internet users from harm.

MalaysiaNow | 20-Oct-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Censorship , Regulation , CBFC

SC rejects PIL for setting up autonomous body to monitor content on OTT, other platforms

On Friday, the Supreme Court dismissed a PIL seeking a direction from the Centre to set up an autonomous body to monitor and filter content and regulate videos on over-the-top (OTT) and other platforms in India, saying these are policy matters.

The New Indian Express | 18-Oct-24

India , Censorship , Backlash , CBFC , Sex

‘The Apprentice’ director Ali Abbasi slams censorship in India as film misses release

“The Apprentice,” a controversial film about Donald Trump’s early life, is facing censorship issues in India over crucial scenes.

The Hindu | 18-Oct-24

India , New Release , Censorship , CBFC , Misrepresentation

Emergency Release Date: CBFC Clears Film With Certification After 1 Month Delay, Kangana Announces

The Kangana Ranaut starrer and directorial is all set to release soon. The actress took to X and shared, “We are glad to announce we have received the censor certificate for our movie Emergency, we will be announcing the release date soon. Thank you for your patience and support.”

Republic World | 17-Oct-24

Malaysia , Censorship , Government , Religion

Jan 6, 2025 ruling on merits of judicial review against Mentega Terbang ban

Today, the High Court fixed Jan 6 next year to decide on the merits of the judicial review sought by the director and producer of the movie “Mentega Terbang” against the government’s ban on its screening and publicity.

The Malaysian Reserve | 17-Oct-24

South Korea , AppStore , Censorship , Classification , Gambling

South Korea lifts ban on Luck be a Landlord

One-man studio Trampoline Tales has successfully lifted the ban against its mobile title “Luck Be a Landlord” in South Korea, although the game remains unavailable in 12 other countries.

GamesIndustry | 15-Oct-24

United Kingdom , Ratings , Classification , BBFC , Sex , Profanity

Abba: The Movie reclassified as PG

“Abba: The Movie” has been upgraded to PG for its commentary about Agnetha Faltskog's bottom. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has changed the film's rating from a U to a PG because of its "mild sex references" and "language."

Film News | 13-Oct-24

Ireland , Censorship , Classification , Violence

Terrifier 3 hit with rare ban after reports of cinema walkouts and vomiting

“Terrifier 3” has been slapped with a rare ban in France for the use of “extreme” violence, which has also reportedly left viewers vomiting and walking out of the cinema.

Irish Mirror | 12-Oct-24

Turkey , Censorship , Government

Turkish Ministry of Culture bans Kurdish film Rojbash from commercial distribution

The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has banned the Kurdish film “Rojbash,” directed by Özkan Küçük, from commercial distribution because it is “unsuitable for public distribution.”

MedyaNews | 11-Oct-24

Australia , Ratings , Backlash , Nudity , Sexuality , Profanity

Airline apologises after explicit film played on all screens

Qantas Airlines apologized after a flight bound from Sydney to Tokyo played an explicit R-rated film on all screens.

GDN Online | 10-Oct-24

Israel , Censorship , Government

Police cancel Jaffa screening of film about Israeli takeover of Lod during 1948 war

Police have barred a Jaffa theater from screening a film about the Israeli takeover of Lod during the 1948 Independence War. The decision follows a request from Likud Culture Minister Miki Zohar, who argued that the film slanders the state of Israel and its soldiers.

The Times of Israel | 10-Oct-24

Nigeria , Regulation , Backlash , NFVCB , Free Speech

Balancing free speech and content regulation in Nigeria

Ayokunle Faith Adetula explains that Nigeria's NFVCB is being criticized over new regulations for online content creation, raising concerns about freedom of expression.

Solicitors Journal | 10-Oct-24

China , Localization , Culture

Lost in Translation: The Localization Challenge of Black Myth: Wukong

Despite localization’s key role in achieving success abroad, the industry remains misunderstood in China—something many linguists hope China’s first AAA game will change.

The World of Chinese | 9-Oct-24

Australia , Censorship , Ratings , ACB , Sexual Violence , Drugs

Sony removes banned game from players' PS5s after accidentally selling it for a year

Hotline Miami 2 has been ripped from players' libraries after it was banned almost a decade ago.

Sports Illustrated | 9-Oct-24

France , Censorship , Classification , CNC , BBFC , Horror

Non merci! France issues rare ban for horror film 'Terrifier 3' - the first -18 rating since 2006

France’s classification body has slapped an -18 ban on ‘Terrifier 3’, which is out in cinemas today. It’s the first ruling of its kind for a horror film in nearly 20 years.

Euro News | 9-Oct-24

Australia , Ratings , Backlash , Nudity , Sexuality , Coarse Language

Qantas apologises after R-rated movie played to passengers on Sydney to Tokyo flight

Technical issues meant the film, starring Dakota Johnson, was played on all screens before it was swapped for a family-friendly movie.

The Guardian | 8-Oct-24

South Korea , Streaming Platforms , Ratings , Government , KMRB

Netflix, streaming platforms come under fire for loose ratings

Global streaming platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Disney+ have been applying loose ratings, violating the Promotion of the Motion Pictures and Video Products Act, according to a report from a lawmaker on Monday.

The Korea Herald | 7-Oct-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Censorship , Government , Regulation

New rule introduced to censor profanity on OTT platforms

Producers may be required to submit affidavits confirming compliance with guidelines to the censor board and ministry, ensuring content standards for OTT releases.

Afaqs | 7-Oct-24

India , Censorship , Backlash , CBFC

Punjab '95 row: Wife of Jaswant Singh Khalra urges CBFC to release biopic without cuts

On October 3, Paramjit Kaur Khalra, the widow of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, issued a statement condemning the Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) demand of nearly 120 cuts in “Punjab ’95.”

Mid-Day | 7-Oct-24

Vietnam , Backlash , Obscenity

Authorities respond to influx of inappropriate short films online

Short films exploiting controversial themes are being produced to attract views, but their inappropriate content is sparking concerns from authorities and the public alike.

Vietnamnet | 7-Oct-24

Turkey , Censorship , Government , Misrepresentation

Documentary on Turkey’s post-coup purge victims banned again for being ‘provocative’

The governor’s office in the southern Turkish province of Antalya has banned a documentary depicting the plight of victims of a post-coup purge in Turkey at a film festival in the city, in the latest example of censorship faced by the documentary’s director, the Gazete Duvar news website reported.

Turkish Minute | 4-Oct-24

France , Censorship , Ratings , Horror

Terrifier 3 Banned to Minors Under 18 in France

The Classification Committee in France has recommended a ban on the film “Terrifier” for minors under 18. Well, not a ban, as it's been put out there, but an age-appropriate rating on the film, the equivalent of an NC-17 here in North America, the death knell for distributors.

ScreenAnarchy | 4-Oct-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Misrepresentation

Working out issues with CBFC over certificate for 'Emergency' film: Zee Entertainment tells Bombay HC

The movie, which was initially slated for a September 6 release, has been embroiled in a battle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), popularly known as the censor board for non-issuance of certificate for release of the movie.

The Hindu | 3-Oct-24

India , Censorship , Backlash

Case filed against Rajinikanth's Vettaiyan on usage of dialogue in trailer

A case has been filed against the film in the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court, as reported. The petitioner, Palanivelu from Madurai, has requested the removal of dialogue related to an encounter scene in the film, stating that the movie should be banned until these lines are removed.

DT Next | 3-Oct-24

India , Censorship , Backlash , CBFC , Politics

‘Legend of Maula Jatt’ release in India uncertain amid backlash

Government sources on Saturday (September 28, 2024) signalled that they would seek to block the release of the Pakistani Punjabi-language film The Legend of Maula Jatt in India, after, among other things, political backlash from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s leader Raj Thackeray. Mr. Thackeray vowed last week to prevent the film’s screening at any cinema in Maharashtra.

The Hindu | 28-Sep-24

China , Entertainment Business , Government , Regulation

China to mandate labels on AI-generated content

China is planning new legislation to ensure that contents generated by artificial intelligence (AI) are clearly labelled; its goal is to stem the tide of fraud related to the use of this new technology.

AsiaNews | 27-Sep-24

Vietnam , Entertainment Business , Government

Attracting Hollywood: VN’s push for simpler film permits & fewer hurdles

Vietnam is emerging as a desirable destination for international film crews, but industry insiders emphasize that more needs to be done to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and offer better incentives for large-scale productions.

Vietnamnet | 27-Sep-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Government , Censorship , Regulation

Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ faces heavy censorship, needs to make these 13 changes before release

Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ film has been making headlines after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) revising committee cleared the actor-turned-politician's film after facing several delays but with some modifications.

Live Mint | 27-Sep-24

Madras High Court Issues Notice To Centre On Plea Seeking Regulation Of Content On OTT Platforms

The Madras High Court has issued notice to the Central Government on a plea directing the Government to immediately intervene and take appropriate steps to regulate and publish movies, web series, serials, and other programs broadcasted on the OTT website as per the current censorship system and regulate OTT platforms.

Live Law | 26-Sep-24

Bollywood Hungama | 25-Sep-24

Diljit Dosanjh starrer Punjab ’95 faces demands from CBFC for 120 cuts, title change and renaming of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra: Report

The biopic “Punjab '95,” on the human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been embroiled in a contentious battle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

Thailand , Paramount+ , Monomax , Streaming Platforms , New Launch

Paramount+ to Launch in Thailand Within Monomax Streaming Platform

Paramount Global Content Distribution today announced a new licensing agreement with MONO in Thailand to create a Paramount+ brand extension on the streamer Monomax, scheduled to launch in November.

Variety | 25-Sep-24

Bangladesh , Censorship , Government , BFCB

Abolishing film censor board is a positive step

The interim government just announced that Bangladesh’s Film Censor Board would be discarded and turned into a Certification Board.

New Age | 25-Sep-24

Australia , Ratings , Classification , Government , Regulation , Gambling

Australia tightens video game gambling regulations

Video games containing simulated gambling and other gambling-like content are now subject to new mandatory minimum classifications, following changes introduced by the Australian government, with unanimous support from states and territories.

Telecompaper | 23-Sep-24

International , Entertainment Business , Globalization

The Power of Local: How Regional Stories Are Shaping Global Entertainment

There's a significant shift occurring in the entertainment industry as global content production is becoming homogenized by international distributors.

RollingStone | 23-Sep-24

Africa , Subs and Dubs , Localization

Paramount Africa To Expand Its Plans To Dub More Of Its Shows In Local Language

Paramount Africa is ramping up and expanding its dubbing initiative of Nickelodeon shows in other South African languages and will roll out even more programming given Afrikaans and isiZulu soundtracks.

Broadcast Media Africa | 23-Sep-24

US , Ratings , MPAA

The popularity of adult content reflects audience maturity

R-rated movies have become popular, especially with young audiences.

El Estoque | 23-Sep-24

India , Backlash

Raj Thackeray Says Won't Allow Release Of Fawad Khan's Pakistani Hit In Maharashtra, Warns Theatres

According to director Bilal Lashari, “Legend of Maula Jatt” is scheduled to release in India on October 2. However, the movie distributor tells India Today that it will only be released in Punjab.

ABP Live | 22-Sep-24

Russia , Censorship , Roskomnadzor , LGBTQ

Russia's media regulator blocks ‘Brokeback Mountain’

Russia's media regulator, Roskomnadzor, has taken action to block multiple websites hosting pirated copies of the critically acclaimed film “Brokeback Mountain,” which explores a romantic relationship between two cowboys.

MENAFN | 22-Sep-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Government , Smoking

Anti-Tobacco Ads on OTT: Ridiculous & Pointless

The Union Health Ministry’s latest proposal for mandatory non-skippable anti-tobacco ads on OTT platforms is causing quite a stir.

M9 News | 22-Sep-24

India , Backlash , CBFC , Politics

Emergency release date: Court gives deadline to CBFC for deciding Kangana Ranaut-starrer's certification

The makers of the Kangana Ranaut film have accused CBFC of intentionally delaying the release of Emergency at the BJP's behest for votes in Haryana elections.

Hindustan TImes | 19-Sep-24

New Zealand , Censorship , Classification , Nudity , Sexuality

Film and Literature Board of Review upholds ban on images of underage, naked girls

The owner of two photos posted on a website specializing in “nudism” content, has argued that the pictures, which depict underage, naked girls, are not objectionable and should be legal in New Zealand.

The New Zealand Herald | 18-Sep-24

US , Backlash , Censorship , LGBTQ

Animators Allegedly Directed by Disney to Make ‘Inside Out 2’ “Less Gay” After Lightyear Controversy & Revenue Loss

Animators of “Inside Out 2” were reportedly instructed to make Riley, the film’s protagonist, “less gay” to avoid the backlash that Lightyear faced over a same-sex kiss scene.

Comic Basics | 17-Sep-24

International , Instagram , Regulation

Instagram overhauls teen accounts with sweeping privacy, age-verification changes

Instagram announced major changes to teen accounts on Tuesday, giving parents more control over their children's messaging and content settings.

Axios | 17-Sep-24

Egypt , Censorship , Religion

Producer Ahmed El Sobky Confirms ‘The Atheist’ Film Will Not Be Banned

El Sobky further confirmed that the controversial film had received approval from the censorship authorities.

CairoScene | 16-Sep-24

Saudi Arabia , Backlash , Censorship , Misrepresentation

‘The Goat Life’: The film that angered the Saudis

Recently, Indian cinematic discourse brought us a new film through Netflix, which addresses a contentious issue: the plight of migrant workers in Gulf countries. The movie is based on the true story of an Indian citizen who traveled to Saudi Arabia and has sparked controversy in the kingdom.

Global Voices | 15-Sep-24

US , TikTok , Regulation , Government

TikTok to begin appeal against being sold or banned in US

TikTok will start making its case on Monday against a law that will see it banned in the US unless Chinese owner ByteDance sells the social media app within nine months.

BBC | 15-Sep-24

Gulf States , Backlash , Censorship , Misrepresentation

Indian Film “Goat Life” Sparks Controversy and Backlash in Gulf States

Indian cinema has always been a global force known for its rich storytelling, vibrant musical scores, and strong cultural narratives. However, in recent years, it has taken a troubling turn with the rise of films that propagate anti-Muslim sentiments. One recent release, “Goat Life,” has struck a particularly raw nerve in the Gulf States, leading to widespread criticism and diplomatic strains. The movie has sparked outrage. It could potentially impact the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region, particularly in the UAE.

World Echo | 13-Sep-24

European Union , Regulation

EU consumer organisation files complaint saying devs are ‘fooling consumers’ with in-game currencies

The BEUC and member organizations from 17 countries have released a publication called Game Over, which focuses on “the unfair practices of leading video game companies behind games such as “Fortnite,” “EA Sports FC 24,” “Minecraft,” and “Clash of Clans.”

Videogames Chronicle | 13-Sep-24

Singapore , Regulation , Government , IMDA , Politics

New bill laying out legal measures on online advertising during elections introduced in SG

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) recently announced the introduction of the Elections (Integrity of Online Advertising) (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to introduce new legal measures to uphold the integrity of online advertising during elections and safeguard the integrity and truthfulness of representation during elections.

Marketech APAC | 13-Sep-24

Iran , Government , Religion

‘The main issue was always the hijab’: the Iranian directors arrested for their gentle septuagenarian comedy

Maryam Moghaddam and Behtash Sanaeeha, makers of “My Favourite Cake,” received an ovation at the Berlin Film Festival while under house arrest in Tehran. They speak about the struggle of creating art under a dictatorship.

The Guardian | 13-Sep-24

Iran , Government , Culture , IRIB , Religion

Iranian actress faces legal action for dancing in web series

Iranian judicial authorities have taken legal action against actress Sahar Dolatshahi for allegedly “dancing” in a scene from a drama series, “Dariush,” as the government continues its crackdown on personal freedoms.

Iran International | 12-Sep-24

India , Censorship , Ratings , CBFC , Violence

'Devara' passes the censor test but with 4 major changes

Bollywood Hungama reported that the much-anticipated film “Devara: Part 1” has been granted a U/A certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The filmmakers have made the required modifications per the censor board's instructions.

Newsbytes | 12-Sep-24

Canada , Backlash

TIFF Halts Screenings of ‘Russians at War’ After Threats to Safety

TIFF has announced it will halt the screening of the controversial documentary Russians at War after it was "made aware of significant threats to festival operations and public safety.”

The Hollywood Reporter | 12-Sep-24

Middle East , Netflix , Backlash , Censorship , Misrepresentation

After Netflix debut, banned Indian film sparks furor on Saudi social media

An Indian film depicting the true story of a migrant worker caught in miserable conditions in Saudi Arabia is sparking an uproar in Gulf Arab states. Critics say the production tarnishes the Kingdom’s image, while others see a stark portrayal of rights abuses that migrant workers allegedly face.

Amwaj.media | 11-Sep-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Regulation , CBFC

PIL in SC seeks autonomous body to regulate content on OTT, other digital platforms

A PIL was filed on Tuesday in the Supreme Court seeking a direction to the Centre to set up an autonomous body to "monitor and filter" content and regulate videos on over-the-top (OTT) and other platforms in India.

Brand Equity | 11-Sep-24

India , Netflix , Regulation , Streaming Platforms , CBFC , Misrepresentation

PIL in SC seeks autonomous body to regulate content on OTT, other digital platforms

The PIL also referred to the Netflix series “IC 814:The Kandahar Hijack” to highlight the need for such a regulatory mechanism as the OTT platform claimed was based on real-life incidents.

The Indian Express | 10-Sep-24

Australia , Amazon Prime Video , Classification , Government

Australia approves Prime Video's content ratings classification tool

The Australian government has approved using the Amazon Classification Tool to classify film and series content in Australia under the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995. The Amazon Tool will classify films, episodes, and series made available to Australian consumers on Amazon’s Prime Video service and provide classification information to help them decide what to watch.

Telecompaper | 10-Sep-24

US , Censorship , Trigger Warning , Sexual Violence

“Blink Twice” Prompts Discourse About Censorship and Trigger Warnings

The psychological thriller “Blink Twice” gained attention for its fresh exploration of heavy themes, which led to discourse about censorship and trigger warnings for sensitive topics and graphic depictions.

The Hilltop | 9-Sep-24

Africa , Entertainment Business , Globalization

Is the African Film Industry Ready for its Global Moment?

During FAME Week’s MIP Africa, Nomsa Philiso, CEO of general entertainment at MultiChoice, the largest producer of original content on the continent, gave an opening speech where she declared this to be the African film industry’s moment of glory, much like amapiano and Afrobeats have done in the sonic world. She pointed out that there are more African television series airing globally now than ever and that there were a record number of African films at Cannes last year.

Okayafrica | 9-Sep-24

India , Netflix , Government , Streaming Platforms

Indian news agency ANI sues Netflix for using its content in hijack drama

Indian news agency ANI has sued Netflix Inc. and producers of an Indian series about a plane hijack, asking for four episodes to be taken down as they used ANI content without permission, ANI's lawyer told Reuters on Monday.

MSN | 9-Sep-24

Africa , TikTok , Regulation , Government

TikTok Launches A First-Of-Its-Kind Sub-Saharan Africa Advisory Safety Council

TikTok has announced the formation of its inaugural Sub-Saharan Africa Safety Advisory Council, an initiative aimed at ensuring user safety across the region. This council, the first of its kind for a tech platform in Sub-Saharan Africa, was launched in Nairobi, Kenya.

POCIT | 9-Sep-24

India , Government , Censorship , Politics

From bans to reels being burnt, the Aandhi some Emergency films weathered

The Emergency in India in 1975 led to severe film censorship, impacting movies like “Aandhi” and “Kissa Kursi Ka,” which were about the life and politics of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As Kangana Ranaut's Emergency is caught in a controversy, here's a look at films on “Emergency” that raised a storm or silently conveyed the message.

India Today | 7-Sep-24

Russia , Censorship , LGBTQ

Russia imposes complete ban on gay cowboy film Brokeback Mountain

Russia has banned the 2005 award-winning film “Brokeback Mountain,” making it impossible to download pirated versions of the film.

TVP World | 6-Sep-24

India , Government , Backlash , CBFC , Misrepresentation

HC rejects plea to order certification of Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday said that it couldn’t pass directives to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a certificate to actor-politician Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency and asked the body to decide on any objections or representations by September 18. The matter will now be heard on September 19.

Hindustan TImes | 5-Sep-24

India , Regulation , Government , MEITY

Indian online gaming industry needs unified regulator: Gujarat NLU report

With over 500 million gamers, the report said India is the second-largest market globally after China.

Business Standard | 4-Sep-24

Turkey , Netflix , Government , Censorship , Misrepresentation

Turkish parliament summons Netflix rep to speak on ‘Famagusta’ series

Netflix’s Middle East public policy director, Pelin Mavili, has been summoned to speak at the Turkish parliamentary digital media committee over its decision to air the “Famagusta” TV series, committee chairman and ruling AK Party MP Huseyin Yayman said on Tuesday.

Cyprus Mail | 4-Sep-24

Egypt , Backlash , Censorship , Ratings , Religion

Controversial Egyptian film ‘al-Molhed’ remains in development hell

Producer Ahmed al-Sobky is still awaiting a conclusion to the development woes plaguing “al-Molhed” (The Atheist) by writer and media figure Ibrahim Eissa. The producer's decision postponed the development for about two weeks.

Egypt Independent | 4-Sep-24

Africa , TikTok , Regulation , Government

TikTok Launches Pioneering Safety Advisory Council for Sub-Saharan Africa

TikTok has taken a significant step towards enhancing user safety by establishing its first Safety Advisory Council for Sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative, unveiled at the #SaferTogether summit in Nairobi, Kenya, marks a pioneering move in the region's social media landscape.

Tech in Africa | 4-Sep-24

International , Trigger Warning , Ratings , Classification

We’re All Missing The Point About Trigger Warnings

The frustrating “trigger warning or not” debate has been floating around for a while. And each time, people like “House of Dragon” star Matt Smith take issue with the idea, while our publications fill with letters from trauma survivors begging to be heard. While, to me, it’s clear whose voices we need to listen to, I also think the furor overlooks one significant argument that deserves our focus—and could provide our solution—the movie ratings system. It just needs a bit of tweaking.

Elle | 3-Sep-24

India , Government , Streaming Platforms , Regulation , Misrepresentation

'IC-814' row: A look at instances of government crackdown on OTT content

Since November 2020, when the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting gained regulatory authority over OTT platforms, the government has been increasingly vigilant about the content being streamed on them.

India Today | 3-Sep-24

India , Backlash , Censorship , CBFC , Misrepresentation

Madhya Pradesh High Court asks CBFC to consider objections before clearing Kangana Ranaut movie 'Emergency'

The CBFC told the Court that the movie is still under consideration, and objections to it will be considered before it is cleared.

Bar and Bench | 3-Sep-24

India , Netflix , Government , Backlash , Misrepresentation

Netflix India's Head Of Content Summoned Over 'IC 814' Web Series Row

The government has summoned the content head of Netflix India amid the massive controversy surrounding 'IC 814 - The Kandahar Hijack', a web series on the 1999 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight by Pakistan-based terror outfit Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, sources have said.

NDTV | 2-Sep-24

Africa , Showmax , Streaming Platforms , Globalization

African Content Is Ready for Its “Global Moment,” MultiChoice Executive Tells MIP Africa

But the pay-tv giant's top goal remains serving core African audiences. Nine of the ten most watched shows on streamer Showmax are now local, with “House of the Dragon” being the big exception.

The Hollywood Reporter | 2-Sep-24

Nigeria , Streaming Platforms , Classification , NFVCB

Censors Board Partners Digital Platform Owners On Film Classification

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), an agency of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, collaborates with platform owners to ensure that only classified films and videos are distributed on their channels or platforms.

Leadership | 2-Sep-24

UK , ITVX , Trigger Warning , Streaming Platforms

Soap opera Crossroads given trigger warning for ‘language of its time’

The TV soap opera “Crossroads” has been given a trigger warning because it “contains broadcast standards, language and attitudes of its time.”

MSN | 2-Sep-24

India , Backlash , Censorship , Misrepresentation

Telangana may ban Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film 'Emergency'

A delegation from the Telangana Sikh Society alleged that the film depicts Sikhs as terrorists and anti-nationals, a portrayal that is "offensive" and damaging to the community's image, the release said.

India Today | 30-Aug-24

US , Trigger Warning , Culture , Sexual Violence , Drugs

Are trigger warnings really necessary when it comes to engaging with culture?

Blink Twice, Zoe Kravitz’s directorial debut has been released with a comprehensive trigger warning about its adult material.

Harper's Bazaar Arabia | 29-Aug-24

MENA , Netflix , Backlash , Misrepresentation

Gulf states protest Netflix's 'The Goat Life' while ignoring the kafala system

Gulf states are protesting the new Netflix film for 'misrepresentation' but ignoring a more critical and problematic issue: the kafala system.

The New Arab | 29-Aug-24

Indonesia , Telegram , Censorship , Gambling , Sexuality

Indonesia considering Telegram ban over lack of moderation

Telegram still needs to improve moderation and issue a resolution over illicit content distribution after several requests from Indonesia.

Cointelegraph | 29-Aug-24

North Korea , Censorship

North Korea adds Chinese films and TV shows to 'impure' media list

North Korea has recently added Chinese movies and dramas to its list of prohibited media, alongside South Korean songs, movies, and dramas.

The Chosun | 29-Aug-24

India , Backlash , Censorship , CBFC , Misrepresentation

Sikh Petitioners File PIL Against Kangana Ranaut’s Film “Emergency,” Alleging Anti-Sikh Narrative

PIL has been filed seeking to prevent the release of Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming film “Emergency,”. The petition, submitted by two Amritdhaari Sikhs, Gurinder Singh and Jagmohan Singh, alleges that the film contains scenes that deliberately misrepresent the Sikh community, fostering an anti-Sikh narrative.

The Financial World | 28-Aug-24

India , Backlash , Stereotyping

A Film About a Goatherding Indian Migrant Sparks a Gulf Controversy

The adaptation of a popular book has provoked a row between Saudi Arabia and Oman — and raised questions about the line between truth and fiction.

New Lines | 28-Aug-24

Kenya , Entertainment Business , Sex

Actress Nyokabi Macharia defends sex scenes in Kenyan films

Acclaimed actress Nyokabi Macharia has defended the steamy and sex scenes that appear to be becoming more common in modern Kenyan film production scripts. According to Ms. Macharia, times are changing, and audiences must abandon their rigid perception of what Kenyan films should be.

Nairobi News | 27-Aug-24

India , Ratings , Culture , Regulation

AIGDF releases white paper on age-rating framework for gaming content in India

The All India Game Developers’ Forum (AIDGF) has released a report titled ‘India’s Gaming Industry: Time for Age and Content Ratings?’ in partnership with the Indian Governance and Policy Project (IGAP). The report showcases the critical need for a structured age and content rating system tailored to the cultural and regulatory landscape of India’s expanding gaming industry.

Financial Express | 27-Aug-24

US , TikTok , Regulation , Censorship , Government , Obscenity

TikTok can’t duck Iowa suit claiming it promotes mature content to minors

An Iowa trial judge Tuesday denied TikTok’s motion to dismiss the state’s suit claiming the social media company fails to screen objectionable content from young teens, finding that the claims are valid under the Iowa Consumer Fraud Act.

Courthouse News | 27-Aug-24

China , Backlash , Feminism

Blockbuster Chinese video game tried to police players - and divided the internet

An anthropomorphic monkey and a campaign against "feminist propaganda" set the video gaming community alight this week following the release of the most successful Chinese title of all time. Many players were furious after the company behind “Black Myth: Wukong” sent them a list of topics to avoid while live streaming the game, including “feminist propaganda, fetishization, and other content that instigates negative discourse.”

BBC | 25-Aug-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Profanity

GOAT' Censored: CBFC Cuts 'Fk', 'Bdu' And 'M**iru' Words From Vijay-Starrer

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has directed the muting of several derogatory terms in the upcoming Tamil movie 'Greatest of All Time' (GOAT).

OneIndia | 25-Aug-24

International , Entertainment Business , Globalization

Disney sees digital engagement as way into new markets, brand officer says

Entertainment giant looks to technology to bridge geographical, generational divides.

Nikkei Asia | 25-Aug-24

Vietnam , Entertainment Business , Globalization , Culture

Lights, camera, collaboration: fostering Việt Nam's film industry

Through the language of cinema, Việt Nam wants to widely introduce international friends to a prosperous country, the diversity in cultural identity, and the hospitality of the Vietnamese people.

Viet Nam News | 25-Aug-24

Saudi Arabia , Netflix , Backlash

Controversial Film ‘The Goat Life’ Sparks Debate Over Saudi Labor System

The film has sparked outrage among Saudis, accusing it of tarnishing the country's image.

Morocco World News | 24-Aug-24

UK , Trigger Warning , Ratings , Sexual Violence , Drugs

Warner Bros UK releases content warning for Blink Twice before movie is released in cinemas

Ahead of the “Blink Twice” big release on 23rd August, Warner Bros UK, which distributes the movie in the UK and internationally (it's distributed by Amazon MGM Studios in the US), posted a content warning on its social media pages warning viewers that some of what happens in the film might be too triggering for them.

Cosmopolitan | 23-Aug-24

US , Trigger Warning , Ratings , MPAA , Sexual Violence , Drugs

Should movies and television shows include trigger warnings? Do they help?

The upcoming “Blink Twice” thriller issued a trigger warning for sensitive content. Are trigger warnings effective?

Deseret News | 22-Aug-24

International , Censorship , Politics , Feminism

No ‘feminist propaganda’: Hit Chinese video game Black Myth in censorship row

Players have said the co-publisher of the hit Chinese video game “Black Myth: Wukong” this week sent guidelines to foreign streamers urging them not to discuss politically touchy topics like COVID-19 or feminism.

The Straits Times | 21-Aug-24

International , Trigger Warning , MPA , Sexual Violence , Drugs

Zoë Kravitz’s ‘Blink Twice’ Issues Trigger Warning for ‘Sexual Violence’ and ‘Mature Themes’ Ahead of Release

Amazon MGM Studios has issued a trigger warning before the release of “Blink Twice,” the directorial debut from Zoë Kravitz, out in theaters Aug. 23.

Variety | 21-Aug-24

Africa , TikTok , Entertainment Business , Regulation

Introducing TikTok’s Sub-Saharan African Safety Advisory Council

With millions of Africans using TikTok every day to entertain, educate, and inspire, we’re excited to announce the launch of our first-ever Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) Safety Advisory Council. This is a big deal for us—it’s the first time a tech platform in the region has put together something like this, and it’s all about making sure TikTok stays a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

TikTok | 21-Aug-24

US , Disney+ , Hulu , Streaming Platforms , Ratings

Disney+ added Hulu shows. All hell broke loose for some parents.

What used to feel like a safe, walled garden of family-friendly fare on Disney+ now includes more mature titles—R-rated movies like "Aliens" (which is being promoted at the top of the home screen) and TV-MA shows like "American Horror Story" and "Shōgun."

Business Insider | 21-Aug-24

The Times of India | 20-Aug-24

Bollywood through the ages: How generations have shaped and been shaped by Indian cinema

Bollywood has evolved significantly over time, with newer generations bringing more to the table, such as its influences and trends in newer movies, promoting a shift in the audience's ideology.

South Korea , Netflix , Regulation , Nudity

Producer Cho Sung-hyun of the Netflix documentary "I'm God" branded it as obscene

Mapo Police Station in Seoul said on the 16th that it sent PD Cho Sung-hyun, who directed “I am God,” to the prosecution on charges of violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes.

Maeil Business Newpaper | 20-Aug-24

US , Peacock , Ratings , Violence

Law & Order: Organized Crime will likely see a viewing age increase

While Law & Order: Organized Crime Season 5 is happening, the series is on the move, which could raise its age rating.

Precinct TV | 20-Aug-24

US , Trigger Warning , Violence

‘It Ends With Us’ Should Have Warned Audiences Ahead of Time

The Hollywood Reporter | 20-Aug-24

Bosnia and Herzegovina , Entertainment Business

Balkan Dramas Build on Region’s Rich Storytelling and ‘Creative Energy’ in Search of Global Breakouts

Two buzzy Balkan series were in the spotlight this week at the Sarajevo Film Festival, where local creatives shared their recipe for turning regional stories into potential breakout hits.

Variety | 19-Aug-24

International , Entertainment , Globalization , Politics , LGBTQ

Contents – The final cut: How cinema is being used to change the global narrative

The Summer 2024 issue of Index examines how cinema helps shape the global political narrative by investigating who controls what we see on the screen and why they want us to see it.

Index on Censorship | 19-Aug-24

Bangladesh , Censorship , Ratings , Government , BFDC

Farooki demands reform in censorship system

Acclaimed filmmaker Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has called for the complete reform of Bangladesh's film censorship system, insisting that outdated policies be replaced by a more contemporary rating system.

The Daily Star | 19-Aug-24

UAE , Censorship , MRO , Sexuality

Key scenes from Khel Khel Mein featuring Fardeen Khan cut in UAE: Director Mudassar Aziz REACTS

Mudassar Aziz has expressed his dismay over the censorship of his latest directorial venture, “Khel Khel Mein,” in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The film marks Fardeen Khan's return to the big screen after a 14-year hiatus, and crucial segments have been edited out by the UAE Media Regulatory Office, leaving the filmmaker disappointed.

Bollywood Hungama | 19-Aug-24

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , Regulation , NFVCB , Smoking

Lagos Int’l Cinema Convention: Sustain #SmokeFreeNollywood, CAPPA urges film industry

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has urged the country’s regulators and the film and cinema industry to protect the next generation of Nigerians from the tobacco industry's predatory tactics by sustaining the #SmokeFreeNollywood campaign.

PM News | 18-Aug-24

Brazil , X , Censorship , Government

Elon Musk’s X Closes Offices in Brazil Following Censorship Row

X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has closed its office in Brazil following a censorship dispute with the Brazilian Supreme Court.

TheMorningNews | 18-Aug-24

Bangladesh , Censorship , BFCB , Politics

Film Censorship: Time to reform

Satyajit Ray directed his classic political satire, “Heerak Rajar Deshe,” in 1980. After rewatching it, the question arises: Could Ray release this film in Bangladesh 2.0? This is a valid question when numerous films face the scissors by the Bangladesh Film Censor Board and can't reach the magical screen where they were destined.

The Financial Express | 17-Aug-24

Nigeria , Ratings , Regulation , NFVCB

Interview: NFVCB is building virtual deck to digitise film rating process, says DG Shaibu Husseini

Lawmakers are fronting a bill before the national assembly to re-enact the board’s establishment law, guarantee its subsistence, shift away from censorship to allow filmmakers more creative license, and double down on regulating the movie streaming sub-sector that has long evaded government oversight in Nigeria.

The Cable | 17-Aug-24

Nigeria , Entertainment , Globalization , NFVCB

NFVCB Seek Partnership With China To Develop Local Film Industry

The partnership will focus on promoting cultural exchanges and film cooperation and strengthening the existing relationship between Nigeria and China.

Leadership | 16-Aug-24

MENA , Entertainment , Localization

Speaking The Language: Localization in the MENA Region – In collaboration with the Saudi Esports Federation

As game companies strive to engage players worldwide, localization has evolved far beyond simple text translation. Today, a well-crafted localization strategy is crucial as it shapes a developer’s competitive edge by shaping brand reputation, user engagement, and player retention.

Niko | 16-Aug-24

Nigeria , Regulation , Classification , NFVCB , Smoking

Law on smoking had to be activated for society’s good – NFVCB ED Shaibu Husseini

Addressing the prohibition of smoking in films, Husseini clarified that the regulation is not of his making. “I didn’t make the law. In fact, when I joined the censor's board and saw the regulation, I realized the importance of activating it. “There is a National Tobacco Act in place,” he explained, stressing that the promotion of smoking is strictly prohibited.

QED-NG | 15-Aug-24

UK , Ratings , Classification , BBFC , Violence

A Nightmare on Elm Street rating change defended by BBFC

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has defended its decision to change the certificate for the horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street from an 18 to a 15, saying that its audience research showed “strong support for older content to be reclassified in line with modern standards.”

The Guardian | 12-Aug-24

International , Globalization , Localization , Culture

Decoding The Global Content Consumption Revolution

As movies and shows like Money Heist and Parasite capture global grounds, the author delves into keys that allow localized content to make waves globally.

Free Press Journal | 12-Aug-24

Egypt , Censorship , Backlash , Religion

‘Banning is no solution': Conflicting reports in Egypt over if controversial film 'The Atheist' is banned

Whether the film has been censored or banned remains unclear. However, the ongoing debate is believed to have earned the movie free publicity.

The New Arab | 12-Aug-24

Egypt , Backlash , Religion

Film Al-Molhed Stirs Controversy Over Alleged Islamophobia

Since the trailer’s release in July, the film “Al-Molhed” (“The Atheist,” 2024) has sparked media criticism and stirred controversy on social media before its release, with many calling for a boycott over alleged Islamophobia.

Egyptian Streets | 11-Aug-24

UK , Ratings , Classification , BBFC , Horror , Mental Health

Nightmare decision! Notorious 'slasher' film A Nightmare On Elm Street has 18 rating cut to 15 - as Downton Abbey creator quips showing it to teenagers is 'child abuse'

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) says the age limit to watch the 1984 horror movie, in which knife-wielding Freddie Krueger attacks teenagers as they sleep, should be lowered from 18 to 15.

Daily Mail | 11-Aug-24

Qatar , Censorship , Sex

Blake Lively's It Ends with Us banned in Qatar over kissing scenes

Romantic drama gets the red light in Gulf state after running afoul of its strict censorship rules.

Ynetnews | 11-Aug-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Profanity

Khel Khel Mein' faces CBFC's scissors! These words removed

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has asked for two cuss words to be muted in the upcoming Bollywood film “Khel Khel Mein.

Newsbytes | 10-Aug-24

Bangladesh , Censorship , Government

My film had to bear the brunt of Bangladesh’s authoritarian regime: Hansal Mehta

Hansal Mehta’s film 'Faraaz,' based on the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery hostage shootout in Dhaka, faced hurdles from the former Bangladeshi government and 'Indian agencies.' Mehta claimed he was threatened and pressured to abandon the project. Despite numerous challenges, the film was eventually released, and Mehta hopes it will be allowed in Bangladesh soon.

The Times of India | 8-Aug-24

Vietnam , Entertainment Business , Regulation , Sexuality

Ensuring cyber security for children – A top priority

According to the Ministry of Information and Communications’ Vietnam Cybersecurity Emergency Response Teams (VNCERT), over 48% of Vietnamese youth reported that they were victims of cyberbullying, and over 13% of the children were exposed to unwanted online pornography.

Vietnamnet | 8-Aug-24

US , Censorship , Politics

Country star Brian Kelley calls out Big Tech for censorship on pro-American song: 'This is nothing new'

Brian Kelley in July released a single on streaming platforms titled "Make America Great Again", which came less than a week after the assassination attempt on former President Trump. Since the launch of the song, Kelley says he has been keeping a watchful eye on Big Tech censorship and trusts that the lack of viewership doesn’t add up.

Fox News | 8-Aug-24

Pakistan , YouTube , Censorship , Backlash , LGBTQ

Fawad Khan's Barzakh Ignites Outrage Over Queer Romance, Yanked Off YouTube

Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed's supernatural fantasy drama, “Barzakh,” has been taken down from YouTube in Pakistan after facing severe backlash over its portrayal of same-sex love.

ETV Bharat | 7-Aug-24

North Korea , Censorship , Government

North Korea punishes students and officials for watching banned Korean War film

"72 Hours" was a huge domestic hit, but it was banned only 5 months after its release.

Radio Free Asia | 7-Aug-24

India , Censorship , Ratings , CBFC , Discrimination , Violence

John Abraham's Vedaa granted U/A certificate, trimmed by 9 minutes by CBFC: Report

The makers released an official statement to point out that the film is yet to receive a clearance from the CBFC. Then there were reports that said that the film was cleared by the CBFC without any cuts. Now, a new report by Bollywood Hungama has stated that a few changes have been instructed by the CBFC's Revising Committee (RC).

Hindustan TImes | 7-Aug-24

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , Regulation , NFVCB , Mental Health , Imitable Acts

NFVCB partners youths on healthy screening in FCT

The Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Shaibu Husseini, says the agency has partnered with youths to enhance media literacy and tackle unhealthy screening in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Guardian | 7-Aug-24

India , Regulation , Government , CBFC

Bombay HC Clears 'Teesri Begum' For Release After Certification Dispute

In a notable case of film certification, the Bombay High Court recently adjudicated a dispute concerning the film “Teesri Begum.” The judgment highlights the intricate relationship between artistic expression in cinema and the regulatory framework outlined in the Cinematograph Act, 1952 read with Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023.

Mondaq | 7-Aug-24

Pakistan , YouTube , Censorship , Backlash , LGBTQ

Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed starrer Barzakh to be pulled from Pakistani YouTube amid controversy surrounding queer love plotline

Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed’s much-anticipated drama, “Barzakh,” which has garnered significant attention and praise since its release, will be removed from YouTube in Pakistan effective August 9, 2024. The decision comes in response to a growing backlash over the show’s portrayal of queer love.

Bollywood Hungama | 6-Aug-24

Pakistan , YouTube , Censorship , Backlash , LGBTQ

Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed Series ‘Barzakh’ to be Pulled From YouTube Pakistan Amid Furore Over LGBTQ Content

Producers Zindagi are removing series “Barzakh,” starring top Pakistani actors Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed, from YouTube Pakistan amid an ongoing controversy over its queer content.

Variety | 6-Aug-24

India , Trigger Warning , Backlash , CBFC , Alcohol

Result of netizens' fury? CBFC drops alcohol warning in 'Trap'

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), led by Prasoon Joshi, has removed the alcohol warning from M Night Shyamalan's latest film, “Trap,” released on August 2. This decision follows a wave of criticism on social media over the frequent display of alcohol warnings in films that depict liquor consumption.

Newsbytes | 6-Aug-24

China , Regulation , Streaming Platforms

Cinema refuses to screen 'Upstream,' sparking controversy

Limited-time screenings and pre-sales recently began for Chinese director Xu Zheng's new film “Upstream.” However, one cinema issued a statement on Monday announcing its refusal to screen the film, which sparked widespread discussion online.

Global Times | 6-Aug-24

Bangladesh , Censorship , Government

Sheikh Hasina Resignation: Hansal Mehta Recalls ‘Faraaz’ Ban in Bangladesh Amid Protests, ‘I Was Constantly Threatened…’

Hansal Mehta recounted how his 2022 film “Faraaz” was banned in Bangladesh amid the current crisis and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

India.com | 6-Aug-24

Bangladesh , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , YouTube , Censorship

Bangladesh bans Instagram Whatsapp Youtube and other social media platforms

Bangladesh has banned several popular social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, Whatsapp, and YouTube, according to reports. Announced on Friday, Friday, August 2, this decision has access to these widely used social networks nationwide.

The Times of India | 5-Aug-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Government , Regulation , MIB

MIB Takes Action Against 18 OTT Platforms For Content Violations

The government has acted against 18 OTT platforms for violating content regulations, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Loganathan Murugan, informed the Rajya Sabha on Friday.

BW Marketing World | 3-Aug-24

Kenya , Government , Regulation

Navigating the Digital Era: Old Regulatory Approaches Unsuitable for New Media Landscape

The June 2024 public protests in Kenya against governance issues highlighted the importance of citizen-led efforts to create and consume media content.

Nairobi Leo | 2-Aug-24

Malaysia , Censorship , Government , Religion

'Mentega Terbang' promotes apostasy, threatens public order: Saifuddin

Saifuddin Nasution Ismail contended that “Mentega Terbang” promoted apostasy among Muslims and threatened public order in Malaysia.

Malaysiakini | 2-Aug-24

Nigeria , Backlash , Censorship , Religion

Muslim Group Condemns Movie Featuring Armed Women In Hijab As Anti-Islam

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called for the ban of an upcoming movie where popular actress Nancy Isime and others wear the niqab, an Islamic full covering, while brandishing dangerous weapons.

New Telegraph | 2-Aug-24

Ireland , Censorship , Classification , Ratings , Sex , Violence

Looking for filth on screen - how the Irish film censor’s role has changed

Irish Times chief film correspondent Donald Clarke trawls through the archives to explain how films are classified, why the office of the Irish film censor changed to film classification – and why in this digital age films are still age rated.

The Irish Times | 2-Aug-24

Middle East , Entertainment Business

Saudi-Turkish, Female-Led Action-Comedy ‘My Treat’ Greenlit By Alamiya & Front Row Productions

Saudi media and film production company Alamiya Filmed Entertainment (AFE) and Dubai-based Front Row Productions are joining forces on Saudi-Turkish road-trip comedy movie “My Treat” (“Mahmool Makfool”), which is being billed as the first ever Saudi-Turkish, female-led action-comedy, will begin filming between the Saudi capital of Riyadh and the Turkish city of Istanbul in September.

Deadline | 1-Aug-24

Russia , Streaming Platforms , Ratings , Regulation

Russian streaming site fined for showing 'LGBT film' without 18+ rating

A popular Russian streaming site was fined 1 million rubles ($11,105) on Thursday after a Moscow court said it failed to put an 18+ age rating on a movie referencing LGBT relationships.

Yahoo News | 31-Jul-24

Indonesia , Government , Regulation , Smoking

Indonesia raises smoking age limit, will curb cigarette advertising

Indonesia raised the minimum age limit for purchasing cigarettes to 21 from 18 as part of a series of changes to health regulations intended to curb the deadly habit in a country with one of the world's highest smoking rates.

Reuters | 31-Jul-24

Nigeria , Entertainment Business , NFVCB , LGBTQ

A True Portrait of Queer Nigerian Life

Queer representation in Nigerian media can be traced back to the early 2000s, when Nollywood, a budding film industry at the time, tried exploring homosexuality. However, queerness was depicted without the necessary nuance, and the films tended to associate homosexuality with immorality. The queer characters in Nollywood films were hedonistic, unstable and sick, in need of spiritual deliverance.

The Republic | 30-Jul-24

US , Censorship , Government , Regulation

Bill aimed at protecting children online sparks debate over censorship and privacy

The U.S. Senate passed the Kids Online Safety Act on Tuesday. If the bill is approved in the House, it will mark the first time in 25 years that Congress has passed a law aimed to better protect children from dangers online.

PBS | 30-Jul-24

International , Localization

Inworld AI adds localization for Mandarin, Japanese and Korean

Inworld AI, a gaming-focused generative AI startup, has added multilingual support for Mandarin (simplified Chinese), Japanese, and Korean. These tools will allow creators to seamlessly localize both the language and cultural context of their games.

VentureBeat | 30-Jul-24

Israel , Palestine , Backlash , Misrepresentation

How Marvel managed to upset Palestinian — and Israeli — fans

A new trailer has reignited controversy over a comic book character Marvel Studios intends to introduce onscreen in next year’s “Captain America: Brave New World,” the fourth installment of the franchise.

Vox | 28-Jul-24

Iran , Censorship , Government , Regulation

Iran filmmakers defy state censorship despite repression

An increasing number of Iranian filmmakers are defying the country's strict ideological censorship by making movies without seeking the Culture Ministry's permission, for screening abroad.

Iran International | 28-Jul-24

China , US , TikTok , Government , Censorship

Justice Department Shares Details of Case Against TikTok

With TikTok’s U.S. sell-off bill looming, many questions remain as to what exactly the case is against the app, and what swayed U.S. Senators to vote overwhelmingly in favor of forcing the app to be sold into American ownership or be banned entirely from the region.

Social Media Today | 28-Jul-24

Free Press Journal | 27-Jul-24

Explained: Controversy Surrounding New Broadcasting Bill

The government has shared a revised draft of the broadcasting bill with stakeholders, which includes new regulations on online advertising and intermediary obligations as well as expanded definitions that impact creators of online content.

China , TikTok , Government , Censorship , Politics

Amid clampdown on minorities, China censors all Tibetan language content on TikTok, says report

While China has always censored political content about Tibet, now it has started censoring all content in Tibetan language, according to France 24.

First Post | 27-Jul-24

Malaysia , Streaming Platforms , Localization , Censorship , FINAS , LPF

Finas committed to ensuring local films meet audience expectations

The national film development corporation (Finas) is committed to ensuring that the quality of local films screened in cinemas is aligned with audience preferences amid intense competition from increasingly popular streaming platforms or over-the-top (OTT) services.

Free Malaysia Today | 27-Jul-24

Nigeria , Backlash , Censorship , NFVCB , Religion

NFVCB wades into use of niqab in Nancy Isime’s upcoming movie

The National Film and Video Censors Board says it has reached out to the producers of a yet-to-be-released film over the use of the niqab in a robbery scene in the movie. The scene has sparked outrage among Muslims after popular actress Nancy Isime shared a photo of it on Instagram.

Punch | 26-Jul-24

India , Streaming Platforms , Backlash , Regulation , Censorship , MIB , CBFC

Yes to overseeing, no to overstepping

I&B Ministry’s Broadcasting Bill put on hold as streamers oppose formation of regulatory body along the lines of CBFC; adhering to 1952 Cinematograph Act while censoring shows another point of contention.

Mid-Day | 26-Jul-24

Japan , Entertainment Business

As Comic-Con Kicks Off, Japan’s Booming Anime Industry Is Attracting Institutional Finance

Ahead of a weekend when Asian content will be making a big impact at San Diego Comic-Con, two of Japan’s largest industrial and financial conglomerates have quietly begun to invest in Japanese animation, the hottest part of the country’s film and TV industry.

Variety | 25-Jul-24

India , Ratings , Censorship , CBFC , Religion

Bombay High Court Allows Release Of Movie 'Teesri Begum' After Makers Agree To Modify 'Jai Shree Ram' Dialogue

The Bombay High Court has allowed the release of the movie "Teesri Begum" after the makers agreed to modify the "Jai Shree Ram" slogan in the movie. Bokadia was ordered by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to modify a scene wherein a Muslim man chanted "Jai Shree Ram" while the Hindu wives attacked him.

LawBeat | 24-Jul-24

Malaysia , Classification , Regulation , LPF

Foster awareness of film classification in society

Almost a full year has passed since Malaysia implemented the 2023 Film Classification. The "18" classification is an enhanced method of classifying movies that takes into consideration the value of adult viewer's freedom of choice. This also keeps children and teenagers in the audience from being exposed to inappropriate content.

Berita RTM | 24-Jul-24

India , Government , Regulation , CBFC , Discrimination

Supreme Court Mandates Respectful & Accurate Depiction Of Disabilities In Films

The Supreme Court of India has taken a significant step towards promoting dignity and respect for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) by issuing guidelines to prevent their disparaging portrayal in films and other visual media.

Naik Naik | 23-Jul-24

US , Backlash , Censorship , Discrimination , Gender Equality

Bengali director Rahool banned from making films for 3 months for violating norms

The Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India (FCTWEI) has debarred young director Rahool Mukherjee from making films for three months on the charge of violating its rules on visiting a foreign country for shooting.

India Today | 23-Jul-24

“Woke” Mob Drags ‘Snow White’, Original Banned After 87 Years

Despite the historical significance of Snow White, the film has faced calls for censorship in recent years. Critics argue that certain elements, such as the portrayal of the dwarfs and the depiction of gender roles, are “outdated and insensitive” by modern standards.

Inside the Magic | 23-Jul-24

Nigeria , Government , Regulation , NFVCB

CSOs Reject Merger Of NFVCB With Other Agencies

Some civil society organisations on Monday kicked against the planned merger of the NFVCB with other agencies by the Federal Government. The groups presented their requests at the resumed hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on the Restructuring of Federal Agencies and Commissions yesterday.

New Telegraph | 23-Jul-24

North Korea , Censorship , Politics

North Korea bans hit war movie 5 months after release

The government has not announced a reason why the film has been mothballed, but a resident of the northwestern province of North Pyongan said on condition of anonymity for safety reasons that it might be because of the government’s recent crackdown on the term “unification,” in line with leader Kim Jong Un’s policy of considering South Korea a separate hostile country, rather than part of the same race of people.

Radio Free Asia | 23-Jul-24

US , New Release , Profanity

‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ the first R-rated MCU movie, has more than 100 F-bombs

“Deadpool & Wolverine,” the third film in the Ryan Reynolds-led series but the first for the Disney-owned Marvel Cinematic Universe, breaks a curse-word record. The threequel, includes more than 100 F-bombs -116 by The Post’s count which is the most of any “Deadpool” film so far. The second entry, released in 2018, featured a mere 90.

New York Post | 23-Jul-24

India , Censorship , Politics

Marvel Removes Captain America 4 Trailer Scene In At Least One Country After Trump Assassination Attempt

It is curious that the only trailer that was seemingly edited was the one uploaded on the Marvel India account. Sure, Marvel may not want to cause further controversy by calling attention to the change and it doesn't want to lose the millions of views on the original trailer, which has been widely spread since its release, but it is still important to note that only the trailer meant for Indian audiences was changed.

Slash Film | 23-Jul-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Misrepresentation , Violence

Diljit Dosanjh's new film 'Punjab '95' in trouble, CBFC hesitant to grant release despite demanding 85 cuts: Report

A source said, “The filmmakers agreed to the 85 cuts, but the CBFC expressed concerns about the film’s sensitive subject matter and questioned its suitability for release in the current climate. A final decision is yet to be made.”

First Post | 21-Jul-24

Nigeria , Government , Regulation , Classification , NFVCB

Nollywood guilds appeal against Oronsaye Report implementation

Guilds in the Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, have appealed to the Federal Government against total implementation of the Oronsaye Report. They want retention of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

PM News | 21-Jul-24

US , Backlash , Censorship , LGBTQ

Does Trolls Band Together Have Positive LGBTQ+ Representation?

Trolls Band Together received praise and backlash for LGBTQ+ representation in animation, highlighting a gap in the industry. Financial greed leads to censorship of queer content in media, making LGBTQ+ representation challenging for international films.

MovieWeb | 20-Jul-24

Bangladesh , Government , Censorship , Violence

Bangladesh Internet in ‘Total Shutdown’ Amid Student Protests and Dozens of Deaths: ‘Things Are Really Turning Bad’

The internet has been shut down, and mobile services severely disrupted in Bangladesh amid student protests that began earlier this week.

Variety | 19-Jul-24

International , Subs and Dubs , Culture

Worldwide Video Content: A Win-Win For Creators, Users And Platforms

The key to global growth is creating content that viewers can understand without additional context. Content must also respect cultural differences between countries and regions and be easy to translate into other languages with the help of subtitles or dubbing.

Forbes | 19-Jul-24

International , Amazon Prime Video , Trigger Warning , Politics , Violence

The Boys Finale Adds Content Warning for ‘Coincidental and Unintentional’ Similarities to Trump Assassination Attempt

Considering the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, “The Boys” Season 4 finale — which features a presidential assassination storyline — opened with a content advisory when the episode debuted on Thursday.

Yahoo News | 18-Jul-24

India , Censorship , Trigger Warning , CBFC , Profanity , Alcohol , Smoking

CBFC passes Deadpool & Wolverine with an ‘A’ certificate and just one minor cut

Fans will be happy to know that the Examining Committee of the CBFC has passed "Deadpool & Wolverine" with an "A" certificate. Not a single scene has been cut or gone through any censorship. The only cut asked was to mute an abusive word, along with blurring liquor brands and adding a health advisory ticker in scenes of alcohol consumption and smoking.

Bollywood Hungama | 17-Jul-24

India , Censorship , CBFC , Misrepresentation , Violence

CBFC asks 85 cuts in Diljit Dosanjh starrer Punjab ‘95, based on life of Jaswant Singh Khalra; release remains uncertain: Report

The release of Honey Trehan's directorial venture, "Punjab '95," hangs in the balance, facing hurdles from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

Bollywood Hungama | 17-Jul-24