If you have seen the new version of Superman, you might think it has been censored for its excessive violence or blood, but the reality is quite different. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of India has decided to censor two romantic scenes from the new Superman movie, starring David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan, claiming they are “too sensual”. This decision has sparked a wave of controversy on social media, where many users criticize the logic behind the censorship of consensual kisses, while scenes of violence are not subject to the same scrutiny.
Kicks yes, kisses no
The cut scenes include an initial moment where Clark Kent approaches Lois Lane to give her a kiss in the kitchen, and a second 33-second sequence, where Superman lifts Lois in a shopping mall while they share a passionate kiss. The removal of these interactions has sparked diverse reactions, not only in India but also globally, where the consistency of the CBFC is being questioned, especially considering the cultural context of the work.
User comments have resonated on social media, with a viral post that ironically mentions the Kama Sutra, stating that since this is a work originating from India, the censorship of kisses establishes a contradiction in the country’s culture. Other internet users have expressed their frustration by mentioning that violence in Indian cinema is not censored, which contrasts with the restrictions imposed on romantic scenes.
Despite this controversy, the film has performed well at the box office, grossing 406 million dollars in its first two weekends. Censorship has highlighted the discussion about the limits of freedom of expression in the seventh art, a debate that continues to grow both inside and outside of India.