The story of a middle-class Muslim terrorist set against a sensitive backdrop of the 92-93 Bombay riots is bound to create a few flutters.
Film critic Khalid Mohamed's directorial debut Fiza opened to a very good response all over the world, but slowly the sensitive elements in the film are being noticed. Fearing untoward incidents the film may give rise to, some government authorities are being careful and alert.
Showing concern for the country's peace disruption, Malaysia has put a ban on Fiza. According to Malaysian government authorities, the portrayal of a Muslim as a terrorist has offended the sentiments of many people in the country. The official report says: 'A Muslim can never be a terrorist'.
Movies handling sensitive issues like communal riots, Partition, lesbianism and atrocities in the name of religion have known to generate ire. Masses going on rampage, destruction of public and private property, violent protests have marked the showings of several films in the past.
The easy way out for lawkeepers in these situations is to ban the film from showing. But doesn't banning prevent good films from being seen and appreciated? And what does it say on the world's tolerance level?
The story of a middle-class Muslim terrorist set against a sensitive backdrop of the 92-93 Bombay riots is bound to create a few flutters.