In Singapore, the film Love, Simon has been given a rating of R21, meaning it's restricted from viewing for anyone under 21, and, as a result, not screening in most cinemas in the country.
Love, Simon tells the story of a boy coming out as homosexual, but does not feature any full-frontal nudity, violence, or sex. It's been widely regarded as a groundbreaking film for LGBTQ representation in mainstream cinema, despite the fact a straight actor plays the lead role.
In Singapore, homosexual acts are illegal, which is why the movie has received such an extreme rating. The Media Development Authority (MDA) of Singapore classification guidelines cite films showing "a homosexual lifestyle" to "be sensitive to community values," but that "They should not, promote or justify a homosexual lifestyle. However, non-exploitative and non-explicit depictions of sexual activity between two persons of the same gender may be considered for R21."
Related | The Cast of Love, Simon Talks the Film's Emotional Coming Out Scene
Singapore-based activist Thasha Monique Dharmendra has started a Change.org petition to lower the rating of the film to NC16, stating: "By making Love, Simon NC16, I am positive that it will have a huge impact on young teenagers struggling to find acceptance from family and friends."
Check out the trailer for Love, Simon below:
