China Censors Use AI Editing on LGBTQ Character in Film

Chinese censors have digitally altered a gay character in the new thriller “Together.” The film, starring Dave Franco and Alison Brie, was edited for its release in China. A same-sex couple was changed into a heterosexual one using artificial intelligence.

The alteration has drawn widespread condemnation from viewers. This move represents a significant escalation in content censorship. It highlights the strict controls on LGBTQ representation in Chinese media.

How the AI Alteration Was Discovered

Viewers in China noticed the change after the film began screenings. According to Bloomberg News, audiences saw a heterosexual couple in a key scene. The original version features a minute-long scene with a gay couple.

Social media users later posted comparisons between the two versions. The AI edit replaced a man’s face with a woman’s face. The alteration was seamless enough that some viewers did not notice it initially.

The backlash was swift on Chinese platforms like Douban. One user called the edit disrespectful to the original filmmakers. They also stated it was a challenge to the audience’s tolerance.

A Pattern of LGBTQ Censorship in China

This is not an isolated incident. China has a history of censoring LGBTQ content in foreign films. In 2019, “Bohemian Rhapsody” had references to Freddie Mercury’s sexuality removed.

Similarly, a “Harry Potter” film had dialogue about a gay relationship cut in 2022. Streaming platforms have also edited shows like “Friends” to remove lesbian characters. This reflects the government’s tightening control over civil society.

Although homosexuality is not illegal in China, advocacy groups face pressure. Organizations like the Beijing LGBT Centre have been forced to close. The space for public LGBTQ expression is shrinking.

The distributor of “Together” halted the film’s wide release in China shortly after the controversy emerged. They cited “changes in the film’s distribution plan” without providing a new date. The involved studios and director have not publicly commented on the alteration.

The use of AI for censorship in China sets a concerning precedent for creative expression. This incident shows how technology can be used to erase representation. The international reaction will likely influence how studios approach future releases in regulated markets.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: What film was altered by Chinese censors?

The thriller “Together,” starring Dave Franco and Alison Brie, was altered. The edit changed a gay male character into a female character. This created a heterosexual relationship for the Chinese release.

Q2: How was the character’s gender altered?

Reports indicate artificial intelligence (AI) was used. The technology digitally replaced one actor’s face with a woman’s face. The edit was described as visually seamless in the scene.

Q3: What was the public reaction to the change?

Viewers in China and internationally condemned the move. Criticism appeared on social media platforms like Douban. Many called it disrespectful to the LGBTQ community and the original film.

Q4: Has this happened with other movies in China?

Yes, censorship of LGBTQ content is common. Films like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Fantastic Beasts” have been edited. The goal is to remove references to same-sex relationships.

Q5: Was the film released in China after the controversy?

The film’s wide release was unexpectedly halted. The Chinese distributor paused it a day before the scheduled debut. No new release date has been announced.

Trusted Sources

Bloomberg News