The annual Mubi Fest Istanbul film festival has abruptly canceled just hours before its scheduled opening, in a disappointing turn of events. The reason? Local authorities in Istanbul banned the screening of the festival’s opening film, “Queer,” a critically acclaimed drama starring former James Bond actor Daniel Craig.
According to Mubi, the streaming service and festival organizer, the Kadıköy District Governor’s Office deemed the film’s “provocative content” a potential “threat to public peace.” The festival organizers strongly condemned the decision to prohibit the screening on “security grounds.”
“We believe this ban is a direct restriction on art and freedom of expression,” Mubi said in a statement. “Festivals are spaces that celebrate art, cultural diversity, and community, bringing people together. This ban not only targets a single film but also undermines the very essence and purpose of the festival.”
The decision to cancel the entire four-day festival rather than move forward without the opening night film was a bold stance by Mubi. The company explained that it wanted to take “the position that our audience expects from us” in the face of this censorship.
“For this reason, Mubi has decided to take the position that our audience expects from us. It is with deep regret that we inform you of our decision to cancel the entire Mubi Fest Istanbul,” the statement read.
Luca Guadagnino, the acclaimed filmmaker, directs “Queer,” a romantic drama based on the autobiographical novel by the influential Beat Generation writer William S. Burroughs. The film, which received a standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival, tells the story of a lonely, drug-addicted gay man in Mexico City who becomes involved in a passionate relationship with a young military veteran.
The decision to ban the film is yet another example of the Turkish government’s crackdown on LGBTQ+ representation and artistic expression. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his administration have a long history of referring to LGBTQ+ individuals as “perverts” and accusing them of threatening traditional families.
In 2020, Netflix even canceled production of a series in Turkey that featured a gay character, unable to obtain the necessary government permissions. Authorities have banned the annual Istanbul Pride march every year since 2015, citing “security concerns.”
Turkish entrepreneur Efe Cakarel founded Mubi, a global streaming platform and production company, and expressed his disappointment and resolve to continue advocating for “the protection of freedom of expression and artistic integrity.”
Our sincerest thanks to all the artists, audiences, and supporters who eagerly participated in the festival. We truly appreciate your understanding and solidarity. We know you are as saddened by this situation as we are,” the company said.
The canceled Mubi Fest Istanbul was set to feature a diverse lineup of films, including the dramas “Dahomey,” “La Cocina,” “Late Night with the Devil,” “Hit Man,” and “Perfect Days,” along with talks, workshops, and live music performances.
This decision by Turkish authorities to censor a film festival is a troubling development that underscores the ongoing challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community and artistic expression in the country. As Mubi rightly pointed out, this ban not only targets a single film but also undermines the very purpose of a festival that aims to bring people together through the power of storytelling and cultural exchange.