Luca Guadagnino Criticizes Turkey’s Ban on ‘Queer’

Guadagnino Condemns Turkish Ban on “Queer”

Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino has condemned the Turkish government’s decision to ban his film “Queer” from screening at a film festival in Istanbul. The film, based on William S. Burroughs’ novel, was scheduled to be the festival’s opening night feature, but was pulled due to concerns that it could “disturb the peace.”

Guadagnino expressed his disappointment and disbelief at the ban, questioning the authorities’ understanding of the film’s content. He emphasized the power of cinema to provoke thought and challenge societal norms, suggesting that the ban highlights the film’s potential impact.

The director also criticized the censorship of films in the digital age, where access to content is increasingly easy. He noted that the ban could actually drive more people to seek out the film and understand its message.

Guadagnino’s comments underscore the ongoing global debate about censorship and the role of art in society.