Lebanon Bans Disney’s Snow White Over Gal Gadot’s Casting

Lebanon has banned Disney’s “Snow White” due to Israeli actress Gal Gadot being on its boycott list. This decision, influenced by her military background and recent pro-Israel statements, highlights political sensitivities in cultural exchanges amid Lebanon-Israel tensions. The film remains accessible in other Middle Eastern countries.

Lebanon has officially banned Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Snow White” due to the casting of Israeli actress Gal Gadot, who is listed on the country’s boycott roster. The Lebanese Ministry of Interior issued this ban after the General Security’s media censorship committee recommended it, citing Gadot’s military background and support for Israel amid ongoing regional tensions.

Born in Israel and a former Israeli military combat instructor, Gadot’s social media statements following the October 7, 2023, attacks have drawn regional criticism. Her call to support Israel included a post adorned with a Star of David, which culminated in backlash in a region sensitive to these issues.

Lebanon has a history of banning films starring Gadot, including “Wonder Woman” in 2017 and “Death on the Nile” in 2022. This ban is rooted in Lebanese law, which strictly prohibits any cultural engagement with Israel, rendering it punishable by law. Given the long-standing conflict between Lebanon and Israel, the two nations do not maintain any formal diplomatic relations.

While “Snow White” is barred in Lebanon, it is scheduled to appear in several other Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan. The film, which premiered in the United States on March 21, has experienced poor box office performance despite its release elsewhere.

In the midst of these developments, the controversy surrounding another film, “Captain America: Brave New World,” continues as it also features Israeli actress Shira Haas. The Lebanese government’s decisions concerning screenings have faced scrutiny, reflecting the complexities surrounding cultural exchanges between Lebanon and Israel amid the ongoing conflict.

A broader ongoing debate regarding anti-Palestinian sentiment in films has led to a call for boycotting Disney and Marvel products. This stems from criticisms about the representation of characters like Haas’ in the movie, who previously embodied a politically charged persona in the comics.

The ban on Disney’s “Snow White” in Lebanon illustrates the impact of geopolitical tensions on cultural productions. Gal Gadot’s casting has heightened sensitivities given her Israeli background and public support for Israel. While the film faces restrictions in Lebanon, it will be available in other Middle Eastern markets. The situation underscores the intricate relationship between cinema, politics, and public sentiment in the region.

Original Source: www.al-monitor.com