Emma Watson's "Beauty and the Beast" was given a 16+ rating in Russia. This means that teenagers below 16 are not allowed to watch the movie. The reason is the inclusion of a gay character.
This was announced by the Russian Culture Ministry according to CBC. In view of the law, an emailed statement was given to The Associated Press to tell who was behind the ban.
Lawmaker Vitaly Milonov who is known for his very conservative views petitioned for the banning of the movie. But later it was down to a restriction on the movie with 16+.
Milonov protested the showing of the film that spreads "overt and shameless propaganda of sin and sexual perversion masquerading as a fairy tale." The lawmaker is also known for fighting against the LGBT rights. Milonov is standing on the federal law in Russia that prohibits gay propaganda.
The gay character is LeFou played by Josh Gad who is the sidekick of the villain Gaston. Director Bill Condon said that the LeFou topic is more of like "the first gay moment."
The star of the film Emma Watson has been in hot waters after posing for Vogue Magazine with her breasts partially exposed. Her movie boasts of being the first movie to feature a gay moment.
With the 16+rating, the number of viewers will be lessened. Most especially because the film is based on a fairy tale that young teens would love to watch.
Russians are generally conservative with their views on morality. But their law is more of a restriction of the young ones who cannot grasp the message of the film.
"Beauty and the Beast" is a timeless love story between a beautiful young woman and a beast (cursed). The cursed prince will return back to his normal self if he finds someone who loves him despite his appearance.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
