An Australian horror film, *Together*, has ignited widespread criticism after being digitally altered in China to replace a same-sex couple with a heterosexual one. The film, starring Dave Franco and Alison Brie, was shown in select Chinese cinemas during advance screenings on September 12. Moviegoers quickly noticed discrepancies after screenshots of the original scenes circulated online, revealing significant edits. The film, which was scheduled for a public release on September 19, has yet to be shown in theaters as of Thursday. The global distributor, Neon, condemned the unauthorized edits, stating they did not approve of the changes and demanded the altered version cease distribution. Directed by Michael Shanks, *Together* follows a couple who encounter a mysterious force in the countryside, impacting their lives and relationship. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January and received largely positive reviews, earning a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the Chinese version faced backlash for modifying scenes, including adding steam to obscure nudity and replacing a man’s face with a woman’s in a same-sex couple scene. References to the relationship were also removed. Critics on platforms like Douban called the edits ‘distortion and misrepresentation,’ with one user stating, ‘Not only did they alter the plot, but they also disrespected the actor’s sexual orientation.’ Neon criticized the Chinese distributor, Hishow, which has yet to comment. This incident follows China’s use of AI to alter sexual content in films like *Oppenheimer* and its broader crackdown on LGBT themes, including the arrest of writers of gay erotic fiction since February.
分类： entertainment
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Matthew McConaughey on starring with his family in film about California’s deadliest wildfire
Matthew McConaughey has taken on a deeply personal role in the new film *The Lost Bus*, a harrowing tale of survival during California’s devastating 2018 wildfires. The Oscar-winning actor portrays Kevin McKay, a school bus driver tasked with guiding 22 children and their teacher to safety through a raging inferno. However, the film’s significance extends beyond its gripping narrative—it marks a unique family collaboration, with McConaughey’s 93-year-old mother, Kay, and 17-year-old son, Levi, making their acting debuts alongside him. Directed by Paul Greengrass, known for his realistic storytelling in films like *United 93* and *Captain Phillips*, *The Lost Bus* is already being hailed as an instant disaster-movie classic. The film’s authenticity is further enhanced by the inclusion of real-life firefighters from the 2018 wildfires and the use of practical effects to recreate the terrifying blaze. McConaughey’s co-star, America Ferrera, plays teacher Mary Ludwig, with both characters forced to make life-or-death decisions while grappling with their own personal struggles. The film’s producer, Jamie Lee Curtis, drew inspiration from a Washington Post article about the Paradise wildfire, describing the project as one of the most important of her career. *The Lost Bus* not only pays tribute to the resilience of those affected by the disaster but also highlights the universal themes of sacrifice and human connection. The film is now in cinemas and will be available on Apple TV+ starting October 3.
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Jimmy Kimmel’s return draws record ratings despite limited showing
Jimmy Kimmel’s highly anticipated return to late-night television following a weeklong suspension has not only reignited debates over free speech but also catapulted his show to its highest ratings in a decade. Disney reported that approximately 6.26 million viewers tuned in to ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ on Tuesday, nearly triple its average viewership for the 2024-2025 season. Despite a quarter of ABC stations in the U.S. opting not to air the episode, an additional 26 million viewers watched Kimmel’s emotional 28-minute monologue on social media platforms. Initial Nielsen ratings, which are expected to rise as more data is collected, exclude streaming numbers, suggesting even broader engagement.
Kimmel’s suspension stemmed from controversial comments he made about the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. During a previous monologue, Kimmel accused former President Donald Trump and his allies of exploiting the tragedy for political gain, likening Trump’s reaction to ‘how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish.’ The remarks prompted Brendan Carr, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to threaten action against ABC and Disney, leading to Kimmel’s temporary removal from the airwaves.
In his return, Kimmel addressed the controversy with a heartfelt monologue, stating it was ‘never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man.’ He also criticized Carr for employing ‘mob tactics’ and condemned Trump for advocating the termination of late-night hosts who frequently critique his administration. ‘Our leader celebrates people losing their livelihoods because he can’t take a joke,’ Kimmel said, calling such behavior ‘un-American’ and ‘dangerous.’
While Kimmel’s return garnered praise from supporters like actor Ben Stiller, who hailed the ‘brilliant monologue,’ it also faced backlash. Trump expressed disbelief on social media, writing, ‘I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back.’ Andrew Kolvet, a spokesman for Turning Point USA and Kirk’s former producer, criticized Kimmel for not offering a full apology, stating, ‘Not good enough.’
The episode has reignited nationwide discussions about free speech, media accountability, and the role of comedy in political discourse, cementing Kimmel’s return as a cultural flashpoint.
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Jessica Chastain ‘not aligned’ with Apple’s decision to pause The Savant
Jessica Chastain, the acclaimed US actress, has publicly expressed her disagreement with AppleTV+’s decision to postpone the release of her upcoming drama series, *The Savant*. The series, in which Chastain stars as an elite investigator tracking online hate groups, was set to premiere this Friday but has been delayed to an unspecified future date. AppleTV+ announced the postponement ‘after careful consideration,’ though the streaming platform did not provide detailed reasons for the decision. The delay comes in the wake of the recent killing of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk, which has sparked widespread debate. Chastain, who also serves as an executive producer for the series, took to Instagram to voice her concerns. She emphasized the show’s relevance to current events, citing numerous violent incidents in the US, including school shootings, the January 6 Capitol attack, and Kirk’s murder. ‘The Savant,’ based on a 2019 Cosmopolitan article, follows a suburban mother who works as a top-secret investigator to prevent extremist violence. Chastain argued that the series honors the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to stop violence before it occurs. While she respects AppleTV+’s decision, she remains hopeful that the show will reach audiences soon. The series also features a star-studded cast, including Nnamdi Asomugha, Pablo Schreiber, and Richard Grant, though none have publicly commented on the delay. Directors Matthew Heineman and Rachel Morrison have shown their support by reposting Chastain’s statement on their social media accounts.
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Italian actress and star of The Leopard Claudia Cardinale dies aged 87
Claudia Cardinale, the legendary Tunisian-born Italian actress celebrated for her roles in cinematic masterpieces such as *The Leopard*, *8 ½*, and *The Pink Panther*, has died at the age of 87. Her passing occurred in Nemours, France, surrounded by her children, as confirmed by her agent, Laurent Savry. Cardinale’s illustrious career spanned six decades, during which she became a symbol of Italian cinema’s golden era, collaborating with iconic directors like Federico Fellini and Luchino Visconti. Born in Tunisia in April 1938 to Sicilian parents, Cardinale’s journey to stardom began when she won a beauty contest at 16, earning her the title of ‘the most beautiful Italian woman in Tunis.’ This victory led her to the Venice Film Festival, where she was discovered by filmmakers. Despite her initial reluctance to pursue acting, she eventually embraced the craft, driven by a desire for independence and financial stability. Her early career was marked by personal challenges, including a traumatic assault and the secret birth of her son, Patrick, whom she initially introduced as her younger brother. Cardinale’s unique multilingual background initially posed challenges in Italian cinema, as her accent led to her voice being dubbed by other actors. However, her breakthrough came in 1963 with her roles in Fellini’s *8 ½* and Visconti’s *The Leopard*. She later ventured into Hollywood, starring in *The Pink Panther* and *Once Upon a Time in the West*, working alongside legends like Henry Fonda and Charles Bronson. Cardinale’s career was also marked by her advocacy for women’s rights, earning her the title of UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in 2000. She continued acting into her 80s, leaving behind a legacy of grace, resilience, and artistic brilliance. Italy’s Culture Minister, Alessandro Giuli, hailed her as ‘one of the greatest Italian actresses of all time,’ embodying ‘Italian grace.’
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Kimmel pulls no punches as he sends defiant message to Trump
In a highly anticipated comeback to US television, Jimmy Kimmel addressed the controversy surrounding his recent comments about Charlie Kirk’s death, striking a tone of sorrow without issuing a formal apology. The late-night host, who was briefly suspended by Disney, made it clear that he would not be silenced by his critics, particularly former President Donald Trump. Kimmel acknowledged that some viewers found his remarks ‘ill-timed or unclear,’ but he stopped short of apologizing, emphasizing that it was never his intention to trivialize Kirk’s murder or blame any specific group for the tragedy. He also reiterated his support for Kirk’s family, referencing a heartfelt Instagram post he shared before the controversy erupted. Kimmel’s return was marked by a defiant stance on free speech, as he declared that his show’s existence is a testament to the freedoms afforded by the United States. He also took jabs at Trump, mocking the former president’s attempts to ‘cancel’ him and suggesting that the backlash had only boosted his show’s viewership. Kimmel’s monologue included a satirical sketch featuring Robert De Niro, who played the new chairman of the FCC, criticizing the agency for allegedly suppressing free speech. The host’s return has reignited tensions between Trump and the media, with the former president signaling his intent to escalate the feud. Despite mixed reactions from critics and commentators, Kimmel’s supporters have praised his resilience and ability to command the stage during a high-pressure moment. As the battle between Trump and the media continues, Kimmel’s return marks a new chapter in this increasingly contentious relationship.
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‘Why does China prefer war?’ The K-drama line that infuriated the Chinese internet
South Korean actress Jun Ji-hyun, renowned for her breakout role in the 2001 romantic comedy *My Sassy Girl*, has found herself at the center of a heated controversy following her portrayal in the Disney+ spy romance series *Tempest*. In the show, Jun plays a diplomat investigating a deadly assassination, and a fictional line from her character—questioning China’s preference for war—has ignited outrage among Chinese social media users. Many have accused the series of misrepresenting China as belligerent, leading to calls for brands to sever ties with the actress. The backlash has reignited debates over China’s unofficial ban on South Korean entertainment, which has been in place since 2016 following South Korea’s deployment of a US anti-missile system. While recent months saw signs of easing tensions, with some South Korean performers returning to China, the *Tempest* controversy has fueled renewed support for the ban. Social media users have also criticized other aspects of the series, such as scenes depicting China’s Dalian city with dilapidated buildings and a table setting resembling the Chinese flag. Jun’s agency has clarified that her brand campaigns concluded before the show’s release, but Chinese consumers have continued to pressure brands like La Mer, Louis Vuitton, and Piaget to distance themselves from her. Despite some defending Jun, arguing she did not write the controversial line, the backlash has overshadowed such sentiments. The incident highlights the fragile state of cultural exchanges between China and South Korea, with the future of K-pop and K-dramas in China remaining uncertain.
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Israel and Eurovision: Why do countries want to boycott a song contest?
The Eurovision Song Contest, a globally celebrated cultural phenomenon attracting hundreds of millions of viewers annually, is now at the center of a brewing political storm. As tensions escalate over Israel’s participation, at least five nations—Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain—are threatening to withdraw from the 2026 event in Vienna if Israel is allowed to compete. This unprecedented move could significantly disrupt the contest, which has been a platform for unity and musical excellence since its inception in 1956. The controversy stems from the ongoing war in Gaza, where over 65,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023. Israel faces accusations of genocide from a United Nations commission of inquiry and major human rights organizations, further fueling calls for its exclusion from Eurovision. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes the event, has long maintained that Eurovision is apolitical. However, the 2022 ban on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine has set a precedent for excluding nations embroiled in geopolitical conflicts. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has cited this example, arguing that Israel’s participation would constitute a double standard. Meanwhile, Israel’s national broadcaster, Kan, has confirmed its intent to participate, and the EBU has denied reports of pressuring Israel to withdraw. The situation has divided the Eurovision community, with some countries, including France and Germany, opposing the boycott. As the deadline for attendance confirmation approaches, the EBU faces a critical decision that could redefine the future of the iconic competition.
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Walt Disney executives to meet with Kimmel, assess talk show future, Bloomberg News reports
Walt Disney executives are set to meet with Jimmy Kimmel, the suspended host of the late-night talk show ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live,’ to deliberate on the future of the program. This development follows the show’s recent suspension by Disney-owned ABC due to controversial remarks made by Kimmel regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Bloomberg News reported the upcoming meeting, citing three informed sources. The discussions will focus on potential strategies to bring the show back on air. Kimmel’s comments, which criticized the MAGA movement’s response to Kirk’s assassination, sparked significant backlash, including from Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, who called for local broadcasters to cease airing the program. Carr warned of possible investigations and penalties for broadcasters if a pattern of distorted commentary is identified. Former President Donald Trump, during a state visit to Britain, commented on Kimmel’s suspension, labeling his remarks about Kirk as ‘horrible.’ Kirk, a close ally of Trump, played a pivotal role in garnering support among young conservative voters. Disney has yet to respond to requests for comment on the matter. The suspension of Kimmel’s show is part of a broader trend of actions taken against media figures and others for their statements about Kirk’s assassination.
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Explainer: Were Jimmy Kimmel’s free speech rights violated when ABC canceled his show?
Jimmy Kimmel, the renowned late-night talk show host, has found himself at the center of a heated controversy following his suspension by ABC. The decision came after Kimmel made contentious comments on his show, ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!,’ regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel suggested that Kirk’s shooter was a supporter of former President Donald Trump and criticized the ‘MAGA gang’ for politicizing the tragedy. His remarks also included a jab at Trump for allegedly diverting attention to White House renovations when questioned about Kirk’s death. The fallout was swift, with Brendan Carr, head of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), condemning Kimmel’s statements as misleading and hinting at potential regulatory actions. Carr’s comments, made on a conservative podcast, emphasized the need for broadcasters to uphold community interests. Shortly after, Nexstar Media Group announced it would cease airing Kimmel’s show on its ABC affiliates, citing the need to align with FCC standards. ABC followed suit, suspending Kimmel’s show indefinitely. While Kimmel could potentially sue the FCC or ABC for free speech violations or breach of contract, legal experts suggest that such cases would face significant hurdles. The First Amendment protects against government interference in speech, but proving coercion by the FCC would be challenging. Additionally, ABC retains the right to decide its programming, further complicating any legal recourse for Kimmel. The incident has sparked a broader debate about free speech, media regulation, and the boundaries of political commentary in entertainment.