Bangkok: A Thai film, based on a well known Shakespeare's play, has been banned by censors on the grounds that its content may cause disunity among the people. 'Shakespeare Tong Tai' (Shakespeare Must Die) directed by Ing K and Manit Sriwanichpoom is reportedly the first Thai rendition of Macbeth, a bloodstained tragedy in which a Scottish general, with the help of his insidious wife, assassinates a king to pave his way to the throne.
The film includes a contemporary allegory about a fictitious nation where a popular politician rises up the echelons of power.
A Ministry of Culture statement said that since the film 'undermines the unity of people in the country', the censorship committee refuses to give permission to screen it in Thailand.
"The reason given is very broad. I asked the committee which part of the film fits that verdict and how I should go back to fix it, but they cannot tell me which scene. This is a Shakespeare story. It's a tale of greed and lust for power," Manit said.
"Since we're banned, I wonder if Thai film-makers are allowed to have opinions, to criticise and to reflect on the reality of the situation. There's a lot of talk about democracy, and I don't know how our film is undemocratic," he added.
The filmmakers will appeal against the decision. It is the second film to have been banned under the Film Act 2009. Thanwarin Sukkapisit's 'Insects in the Backyard' was banned for its nudity and scenes of students prostituting themselves.
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