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Fuss over ‘gay’ Disney character unbecoming of a tolerant society
Homosexuality is no longer a crime in Hong Kong but protests over Beauty and the Beast show that we have a long way to go on the issue of inclusiveness
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It is regrettable that homosexuality is still regarded as a sickness, sin or crime in some places. While many societies have become increasingly tolerant, there are those who continue to reject, suppress or antagonise gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people on moral or religious grounds.
The controversy surrounding the newly released film Beauty and the Beast is a case in point. The fairy-tale classic brought to life on the silver screen by Disney has been banned or censored in some parts of the world for containing “gay scenes”. In the United States, a drive-in cinema in Alabama refused to screen the film. Malaysia only allowed a censored version to be shown and required those aged below 13 to be accompanied by guardians. Russia has restricted it to viewers aged 16 and above.
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The film’s director conceded that there was a “gay moment” involving a minor character, who has “confused feelings” towards the story’s villain. The scene was added in honour of a late, HIV-positive writer who gave life to the beast in the cartoon version decades ago. But the actor who played the role in question said it was never scripted as a gay character. Indeed, the so-called gay subplot appeared to be so subtle that it was not even noticed by others involved in the production.
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