Tamil-language spy thriller Vishwaroopam, said to be actor-producer Kamal Haasan’s dream project, will not release in the UAE on Thursday.
According to UAE daily Gulf News, the film is still under review by the National Media Council.
“We are yet to give our verdict on it. It touches upon sensitive subjects like Osama Bin Laden and Muslim groups. There are bombings and more killings. We need to review it very carefully,” said Juma Obaid Al Leem, director of the Media Content Tracking Department at the Council told Gulf News. His team will review the film again on Sunday.
UAE cinema house, Grand Cinemas announced the rescheduling on their Facebook page.
"Hello Fans, we have just received a confirmation that the movie Vishwaroopam has been temporarily stopped across all cinema theaters in the UAE. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Note: All tickets purchased could either be refunded or transferred for another movie," the post said.
CONTROVERSY
Meanwhile, the film's theatre release in India has also faced controversy. Earlier this month, Kamal Haasan lodged a police complaint in Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, claiming he was receiving threats that the electric supply of the theatres that released the film, would be cut off.
Several Muslim organisations in the state have now asked for the film to be banned, saying its content will disrupt "the social harmony" of the state. However, Vishwaroopam is slated for a January 25 release across 500 theatres in Chennai.
As for the UAE, further announcements are awaited.
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