Uzbekistan bans 225 foreign films

Last week, Uzbekistan’s Agency for Intellectual Property unveiled a list of 225 foreign films to be banned for import and distribution in the country, with the offending works featuring such risqué themes as homosexuality, swinging and promoting the use of tobacco products.

According to a report by Central Asian news site Asia-Plus, the listed films were banned due to “scenes of violence, inhumanity, ruthlessness, promotion of the consumption of alcohol and tobacco products, promiscuity, frivolity, sexual intemperance, homosexuality, and swinging”.

Among the banned films are Pride and Prejudice and Zombies (2016) and the Scary Movie horror-comedy series (2000-2013). All films listed were released in the 21st century.

This move echoes a wider move towards state control over culture (including film and music) in Uzbekistan. As of 1 July 2017, singers in Uzbekistan need state permission to post their music videos on YouTube, while performers are required to obtain a licence to be able to appear on television and radio, as well as at events such as weddings.

Source: Asia-Plus