Weekly news 21

Following previous news about Russia's adult rating, 16, on the new Beauty and the Beast film, the release of the film in Malaysia has been halted after also raising the issue of the homosexual references in the film according to the Guardian. The country's main two cinemas have postponed the film indefinitely due to this issue. Film censors have said that the film will only be approved following the cut of a minor gay scene. According to new rules in Malaysia, gay characters can be depicted only if they are shown in a negative light.

In my opinion I think that the small 'gay moment' shouldn't have this much negative attention or should be blown out of proportion. The rule in Malaysia and the fact that other countries are putting adult ratings on this film is definitely shedding negative light onto the film when there doesn't have to be. Today, the issues regarding homosexual relationships have improved as it has become more accepted by a lot more people. However the controversy surrounding the small gay scene is an indication that it is still a massive problem as there are still people who still don't agree with it. I think that the parents should decide whether or not they want their children to watch the film as I think it is important for them to decide what they are and are not exposed to.