Deadpool fans in China won’t be able to see the movie in theaters, as the nation’s censors have banned the film due to graphic violence.
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Faced with potential censorship hurdles, Warner Bros. opted not to release 2008’s “The Dark Knight” in China, citing “cultural sensitivities in some elements of the film”.
The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that decision with the China Film Group: Deadpool isn’t allowed in China. However, in Deadpool’s case, any cuts or edits to the inappropriate parts would’ve interfered with the overall plot of the film, so it’s been barred from being shown in the country.
According to Comic Book Resources, the petition was created by Grace Randolph, host of YouTube shows “Beyond the Trailer” and “Think About Ink”, after receiving a letter from a fan.
Marvel comic book movies have done huge business in China, which is now the world’s second-largest theatrical market. Avengers: Age of Ultron grossed $240 million last summer, while recent titles Guardians of the Galaxy and Ant-Man grossed $96.4 million and $105.4 million, respectively.
Despite its impracticality, Christina has tapped into a problem that has surely been on the minds of 20th Century Fox: money.
The movie’s origin story centers on Wilson being subjected to a rogue experiment in an effort to cure his cancer.
The approach to the character will stay the same in the new film – with director Tim Miller insisting on portraying a “hypersexualised” version of Deadpool.
Fan events in New York City and Los Angeles promised an actor Q&A and “first-look footage”, but they got a whole lot more than that.
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Deadpool opens on February 12, 2016.
