11 Banned Movies in Kenya & Why
The realm of cinema has always been a subject of scrutiny and debate, especially when it comes to content that pushes the boundaries of societal norms. In Kenya, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) holds the power to ban movies from being screened or distributed.
The reasons behind these bans often revolve around violence, explicit sexuality, or themes that clash with Kenyan culture.
This article delves into the world of banned movies in Kenya, examining the reasons behind their prohibition and the controversies surrounding them.
Movies That Found Themselves on the Chopping Block
The KFCB’s ban list boasts an assortment of movies that have faced the wrath of censorship in Kenya. Let’s explore some prominent examples that have incurred the board’s ire:
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, this high-octane Wall Street drama faced the ban hammer due to its explicit depictions of sex, drugs, and violence. The unapologetic portrayal of excess and debauchery clashed with the moral sensibilities upheld by the KFCB.
Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)
Based on the wildly popular novel by E.L. James, this steamy romance film aroused controversy with its explicit sexual content. The KFCB, deeming it too risqué for Kenyan audiences, swiftly banned the movie, leaving fans yearning for the tantalizing tale.
Rafiki (2018)
Rafiki, a Kenyan film directed by Wanuri Kahiu, faced the ban for its portrayal of a lesbian love story. The KFCB cited the film as promoting homosexuality, a practice deemed illegal under Kenyan law. This decision drew international attention, as the film was selected to compete at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
I am Samuel (2019)
This documentary by American filmmaker Timothy Greenfield-Sanders chronicled the journey of a young Kenyan man navigating his life as a gay individual. The KFCB banned the film, asserting that it was promoting homosexuality, despite its critical acclaim and screening at the Tribeca Film Festival.
The Wider Scope of Banned Movies
Beyond the well-known examples, the KFCB has banned a slew of other movies, often citing excessive violence, explicit sexuality, or content deemed culturally offensive. Here are a few noteworthy additions to the list:
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)
- The Brown Bunny (2003)
- Showgirls (1995)
- Caligula (1979)
- Emmanuelle (1974)
It’s crucial to acknowledge that while the KFCB’s ban on movies is intended to restrict access to these films, enforcement is not always foolproof. Some banned movies have found their way into the hands of eager viewers through underground channels and online piracy. Nonetheless, the ban serves as a deterrent for legal distribution and viewing within Kenya.
A Controversial Ban on LGBTQ Content
One of the most contentious aspects of the KFCB’s censorship policy is the ban on movies, series, and TV shows featuring LGBTQ content.
In Kenya, homosexuality is criminalized, and the KFCB vehemently prohibits any content that depicts same-sex relationships. Possession or distribution of such material can result in imprisonment for up to 14 years, leading to concerns from human rights groups who argue that this ban is discriminatory.
In 2018, the Kenyan film Rafiki faced the brunt of the ban due to its depiction of a lesbian love story. The KFCB deemed the film as “promoting lesbianism” and claimed it was against the law.
This decision, along with the subsequent ban on the documentary I am Samuel in 2019, caused an outcry both domestically and internationally.
The KFCB’s stringent ban on LGBTQ content falls within a broader context of anti-homosexuality measures in Kenya. In 2014, the Kenyan government passed a law that criminalized same-sex relationships, further intensifying the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals. Critics argue that these laws infringe upon human rights and perpetuate discrimination.
Despite the ban and legal hurdles, a growing movement is advocating for LGBTQ rights in Kenya.
In 2019, a group of Kenyan activists filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the law criminalizing same-sex relationships. The outcome of the lawsuit remains pending, highlighting the ongoing battle for equality and human rights in the country.
Reflecting on the Challenges and the Way Forward
The KFCB’s ban on movies, particularly those featuring LGBTQ content, serves as a stark reminder of the obstacles faced by LGBTQ individuals in Kenya. Discrimination, violence, and limited access to fundamental rights continue to plague their lives. However, it also ignites a call to action to fight for equality, challenge restrictive laws, and advocate for inclusivity and acceptance.
As the world evolves and embraces diversity, engaging in meaningful conversations about censorship, cultural sensitivities, and the need for open dialogue becomes essential. Balancing the preservation of cultural values with the promotion of freedom of expression remains a delicate task, but one that must be undertaken to ensure a progressive society.
In the end, the censorship of movies, including those banned in Kenya, highlights the ever-evolving nature of artistic expression and the societal push and pull between tradition and progress.
The controversies surrounding banned movies serve as catalysts for critical thinking, discussions, and the pursuit of a more inclusive future.
Let us strive for a society that appreciates diverse perspectives and embraces the power of cinema to challenge, inspire, and provoke.
Related:
