A U.S. film company has criticized the alteration of a gay couple in the body horror movie “Together,” changing them to a heterosexual couple in the Chinese version. This discrepancy came to light through social media posts comparing scenes from both versions after preview screenings in China.
“Together” focuses on Tim and Millie, portrayed by real-life couple Dave Franco and Alison Brie, as they face a supernatural force attempting to merge their bodies into one in a small town. The Chinese release, handled by Hishow, was eventually withdrawn after initially screening on September 12.
Neon, the global distributor that acquired the film’s rights at Sundance, voiced disapproval of the unauthorized edit by Hishow. The company demanded the cessation of the altered version’s distribution. Attempts to obtain comments from Hishow and the film’s director, Michael Shanks, were unsuccessful.
Criticism of the edit circulated on Chinese social media platforms, with users deeming it inappropriate and a deviation from the original work. Chris Berry, a film studies professor at King’s College London specializing in Chinese cinema, highlighted China’s strict control over film content, often leading to edits or outright bans that do not align with Chinese values.
In a similar instance, the biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody” underwent significant cuts in China, including scenes addressing Freddie Mercury’s sexuality, causing confusion among viewers. Despite changing attitudes towards LGBTQ+ communities in China, crackdowns on related groups and expressions persist, reflecting ongoing societal challenges and censorship regulations.
The crude alteration in “Together” serves as a stark reminder of the boundaries set by Chinese authorities, emphasizing adherence to established norms and values.
