Content Editor
July 12, 2023

The banning of films in certain countries can be attributed to the perceived need to protect societal values, cultural sensitivities, and the well-being of citizens. Governments or regulatory bodies impose these bans when they consider the content of a film to be highly provocative, offensive, or potentially harmful. Films that touch upon sensitive issues, challenge established norms, or depict explicit violence, explicit sexual content, or extreme ideologies are often subject to bans. This approach is particularly prevalent in countries with conservative social frameworks, stringent censorship policies, or deeply rooted cultural sensitivities.

 

However, critics argue that film bans can limit artistic expression, hinder the exploration of important societal issues, and impede cultural exchange. They contend that these actions stifle creative freedom and deny audiences the opportunity to engage in critical thinking. The banning of films also raises questions about the balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing the evolution of artistic expression, contributing to ongoing discussions on freedom of speech and the boundaries of creativity.

 

In this article, we'll be taking a look at 5 films that got banned in the Philippines (within reason) and 3 films that the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) gave the green light despite issues revolving around it. 

 

Tales from the Forbidden: 5 Banned Films in the Philippines

 

It's no surprise that, because of either religious reasons or government preference, there are films - some of them iconic - that have been banned in the country. While you can easily access them today on online platforms, it pays to know that these films were actually banned from the silver screen when they were initially released. 

 

Abominable (2019) 

 

 

In 2019, the animated film "Abominable" faced a ban in the Philippines due to a scene depicting a map showing the controversial "nine-dash line," which is China's territorial claim over the South China Sea, including areas claimed by the Philippines. The ban was imposed to protect the Philippines' sovereignty and territorial integrity, as the inclusion of the map was viewed as a direct challenge to the country's position on the South China Sea dispute.

 

The decision to ban "Abominable" sparked debates between those who supported it as a necessary safeguard of national interests and those who criticized it as an infringement on artistic freedom. Supporters believed that the ban would prevent the film from influencing public opinion or promoting a narrative contrary to the Philippines' territorial claims. Critics, however, argued that the ban restricted creative expression and raised concerns about censorship based on geopolitical considerations. The ban on "Abominable" in the Philippines highlighted the complex interplay between art, politics, and national identity, prompting discussions about the delicate balance between protecting sovereignty and promoting artistic freedom.

 

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

 

 

The film adaptation of "The Da Vinci Code" was banned in the Philippines due to its controversial portrayal of religious themes, particularly those concerning Christianity. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to protect religious sensitivities and prevent potential religious unrest primarily imposed the ban. The film was seen as blasphemous and offensive by the CBCP and other religious groups, as it presented alternative interpretations of biblical events that challenged established religious doctrines. The ban aimed to uphold the integrity of religious beliefs and avoid the dissemination of ideas that were deemed sacrilegious.

 

The ban on "The Da Vinci Code" ignited debates surrounding freedom of expression and censorship. Critics argued that the ban restricted artistic and intellectual freedom, limiting access to diverse perspectives and inhibiting the public's ability to engage with controversial ideas. They believed that individuals should have the autonomy to explore different interpretations and form their own opinions. However, the ban highlighted the delicate balance between protecting religious sensitivities and upholding the principles of freedom of expression, prompting discussions on the boundaries of artistic and religious expression in the Philippines.

 

Uncharted (2022)

 

 

The Philippines has banned the Hollywood film "Uncharted" due to a scene depicting a disputed map of the South China Sea. The film, starring Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg, was released in the Philippines on February 23 but was pulled from domestic screenings after it was discovered that a two-second frame displayed the so-called nine-dash line, which represents China's claims in the South China Sea. The Philippine Foreign Ministry stated that the scene was contrary to national interest. Vietnam, another claimant in the South China Sea dispute, had also previously banned the movie.

 

The nine-dash line represents China's territorial claims in the region, which is also contested by Taiwan, Vietnam, Brunei, the Philippines, and Malaysia. An arbitration tribunal in The Hague invalidated China's claims in the South China Sea in 2016, but China does not recognize the ruling. Following the ban, Sony Pictures' Columbia Pictures Industries Inc complied with the order to stop screening the film. Sony Pictures did not provide an immediate comment on the matter.

 

The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

 

 

Martin Scorsese's acclaimed film, which is considered a masterpiece, failed to resonate with the board as it did with audiences. Regrettably, it was labeled as "anti-religious" and "blasphemous" due to its portrayal of Jesus Christ being weakened by various sinful temptations. In a nutshell, the film depicted Jesus engaging in sexual activity or having explicit dreams.

 

As a result, the film faced a permanent ban in 2010. This decision was driven by the belief that the film's depiction of Jesus and its exploration of his vulnerabilities were disrespectful and crossed the line of what was deemed acceptable within the context of religious sensibilities. The ban prevented the film from being screened or distributed, reflecting the board's determination to uphold religious values and protect against what it perceived as offensive or sacrilegious content.

 

Films by Claire Danes from 1994 to the Present

 

 

Following Claire Danes' disparaging remarks about the city of Manila, where she referred to it as "ghastly and weird" and made derogatory comments about its conditions, all films featuring her have been banned in the city. Danes further described Manila as a place that "smelled of cockroaches" and was infested with rats, lacking proper sanitation and where people suffered from severe disabilities. The remarks drew significant ire from President Joseph Estrada, leading to Claire Danes being declared "persona non grata" in Manila. As a result, all her films, ranging from "Romeo + Juliet" to "Stardust," have been prohibited from being shown in the city.

 

Saved from the Chopping Block: 3 That ALMOST Got the Chop 

 

While it there are films that got axed from the Philippine market, there are also those that just narrowly missed the mark. Some films had bans lifted years after its premiere and there are also films that, despite public uproar, did not get the chop - allowing them to continue showing on screens. 

 

Here are three films that are either marked safe from missing their PH premiere or films that were saved years after their initial ban.

 

Barbie (2023)

 

 

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has given approval for Warner Bros.' upcoming film "Barbie," starring Margot Robbie, to be commercially released in the Philippines. Concerns had arisen regarding the inclusion of scenes in the movie that allegedly depict China's territorial claims in the South China Sea using the controversial nine-dash line. Vietnam had previously banned the film's release, prompting the MTRCB to deliberate on the matter.

 

After deliberation, the MTRCB announced that it would allow the commercial release of "Barbie." The board stated that there was no clear or explicit portrayal of the nine-dash line in the film, leading them to conclude that there was no basis for a ban. The MTRCB emphasized its role in banning movies or television shows that feature scenes injurious to the reputation of the Philippines, such as the nine-dash line, and clarified that it would not ban projects if they did not pose a threat. This decision follows previous instances involving the films "Abominable" and "Uncharted."

 

Metamorphosis (2019)

 

 

The Cinema One Originals film, featuring intersex individuals, initially received an X rating from the MTRCB due to its "daring" scenes, including a masturbation scene and exposure of genitals. However, after a reevaluation by a different set of reviewers, the film was reclassified as an R-16 film, considering the film's overall context. No edits or cuts were made to the film, as the reclassification recognized the importance of the subject and its artistic integrity.

 

The decision to reclassify the film demonstrates the MTRCB's willingness to acknowledge the film's significance in addressing sensitive themes and shedding light on the experiences of intersex individuals. By allowing the film to reach a wider audience, with an age-appropriate viewing restriction, the MTRCB struck a balance between ensuring responsible viewership and respecting the artistic expression and narrative of the film.

 

Schindler’s List (1993)

 

 

The internationally acclaimed film faced a ban in the Philippines under the accusation of being "pornographic" due to explicit scenes showcasing nudity and sexual activity. Despite being an Academy Award-winning film known for its sensitive themes and fearless performances, the local regulatory body, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), focused on a few seconds of bare breasts within the movie. When the MTRCB demanded the removal of the nudity, it was the renowned director Steven Spielberg himself who decided to withdraw the film from the Philippines. However, the intervention of President Fidel Ramos led to a compromise that allowed the film to be shown without cuts but restricted its viewing to audiences aged 16 and above.

 

The ban on this film was fully overturned in 1994 because of its historical merits. 

 

The banning of films, whether due to explicit content, political messaging, or religious sensitivities, remains a controversial and complex issue. While governments and regulatory bodies often cite reasons such as protecting societal values, cultural integrity, or national interests, the act of banning films raises questions about artistic freedom, freedom of expression, and the boundaries of censorship.

 

In the cases mentioned, from the ban on "Uncharted" in the Philippines due to a disputed map, to the ban on "The Da Vinci Code" over religious controversies, and the banning of a Scorsese masterpiece for its portrayal of Jesus Christ, these incidents demonstrate the delicate balance between upholding societal norms and allowing artistic expression to flourish. They highlight the ongoing debates surrounding cultural sensitivities, political ideologies, and the interpretation of religious beliefs.

 

Ultimately, these bans provoke discussions on the role of film in society, the power of storytelling, and the responsibility of filmmakers to navigate complex themes while respecting the diversity of perspectives. As the world continues to evolve, it is essential to foster open dialogue, promote cultural understanding, and find a balance that respects freedom of speech while acknowledging the importance of safeguarding societal values and beliefs.