Neon Blasts Chinese Distributor’s “Unauthorized Edit” Of Gay Couple Scene In ‘Together’; Pic Pulled From Country’s Theaters

In a controversial move, an Australian film has been altered in China to replace a same-sex couple with a heterosexual couple. This change raises significant concerns about censorship and the representation of LGBTQ+ communities in media. It highlights the ongoing tensions between artistic expression and cultural norms, sparking discussions about the impact of such alterations on storytelling and the rights of filmmakers.

The Australian horror film 'Together,' featuring a same-sex wedding scene, faced digital alterations for its release in mainland China, changing the gay couple to heterosexual. This modification has sparked significant outrage among viewers who noticed the edits, highlighting ongoing issues of censorship and LGBTQ+ representation in media. The film, which stars Dave Franco and Alison Brie, was released in China on September 12, and the backlash underscores the tension between artistic expression and governmental restrictions.

The recent airing of the K-drama 'Tempest' featuring Jun Ji-hyun has sparked outrage on the Chinese internet, reigniting discussions about China's censorship policies. While there were signs that the ban on K-dramas was easing, this incident has raised concerns about the government's stance on foreign media. This matters because it highlights the ongoing tension between cultural exchange and state control, affecting not only entertainment but also the broader relationship between China and South Korea.

Zhao Linshan's 'Evil Unbound' has made a remarkable impact at the China box office, raking in RMB881.7 million ($122.5 million) during its opening weekend. This impressive debut not only highlights the film's popularity but also positions it as one of the year's strongest releases, having already grossed $170.4 million in just four days. Meanwhile, Jackie Chan's 'Shadow's Edge' has secured the second spot, showcasing the ongoing appeal of big-name stars in the industry.

Viaplay Content Distribution is making waves at MIPCOM Cannes by showcasing 20 original shows from SkyShowtime, including a mix of dramas, thrillers, comedies, and documentaries. This move not only expands Viaplay's catalog but also highlights the growing demand for diverse content in the European market. With titles like the Swedish drama 'Beartown,' viewers can expect engaging stories that resonate across cultures, making this a significant step for both Viaplay and SkyShowtime.

A new talent series called 'Europe’s K-Pop Odyssey' is launching, aiming to discover the next big K-pop stars across Europe. Produced by Pig & Horse Productions in collaboration with UpToLevel Media and Mothership, this innovative project promises to blend social media engagement with traditional talent scouting. This initiative is significant as it highlights the growing influence of K-pop globally and offers European artists a unique platform to showcase their talents in a genre that has taken the world by storm.

The Thessaloniki International Film Festival is gearing up for its 21st edition of the AGORA Co-Production Forum, showcasing 14 exciting projects from 16 different countries. Running from November 2-6, this forum is a significant platform for filmmakers to connect and collaborate, highlighting the festival's commitment to fostering international cinema. With a jury that includes notable figures like Frank Hoeve and Uljana Kim, this year's event promises to be a vibrant hub for creativity and innovation in the film industry.

The Finnish film community is mourning the sudden passing of actor Tomi Alatalo at just 44 years old, which adds a bittersweet layer to the release of 'The More Loving One.' In this film, Alatalo portrays a record company executive who plays a pivotal role in the journey of aspiring musicians. His untimely death not only impacts the film's release but also highlights the fragility of life and the importance of celebrating artistic contributions while they are still with us.

Yukari Sakamoto's film 'White Flower and Fruits' is making waves as it premieres in the New Directors competition at the San Sebastián Film Festival. The story follows Anna, a quiet transfer student at a Protestant girls boarding school, and explores themes of identity and belonging. This film is significant not only for its artistic vision but also for showcasing new talent like Miro, who plays the lead role. It's a fresh addition to the festival, promising to captivate audiences with its unique narrative.

STV Studios is making significant cuts by halting entertainment development and investment in Mighty Productions, known for its 'Ex Rated' content. This decision is part of a broader cost-saving initiative, leading to the departure of Creative Director Gary Chippington. This move highlights the challenges faced by production companies in a competitive market and raises questions about the future of innovative content in Scotland.