Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker LGBTQ Kiss Scene was Censored in The Middle East

Most of us believe that Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is somehow a harmless film that wouldn't offend anyone. However, a new report has revealed that an unexpected scene featuring an LGBTQ kiss was censored from the theatrical cut that will be screened in the Middle East.

MILD SPOILERS AHEAD, PROCEED WITH CAUTION

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the said scene which features a same-sex kiss did not appear in the theatrical cut of The Rise of Skywalker that was released in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The movie had started screening in the Middle East on Thursday, December 19, and the scene no longer had the kiss.

It's important to point out that the kissing scene didn't even feature any of the main characters of The Rise of Skywalker. Instead, the kiss was shared by two pilots who appeared in the background. Nevertheless, censors decided to remove the scene.

For now, only the theatrical cut that screened in Dubai has been censored. However, it is believed that the rest of the Middle East will follow the trend. Interestingly, China has decided not to censor the same scene.

The synopsis for The Rise of Skywalker reads as follows:

"A year after the events of The Last Jedi, the remnants of the Resistance face the First Order once again—while reckoning with the past and their own inner turmoil. Meanwhile, the ancient conflict between the Jedi and the Sith reaches its climax, bringing the Skywalker saga to a definitive end."

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker hits theaters on December 20.

Related: Star Wars: Mark Hamill Pays Tribute to George Lucas Ahead of The Rise of Skywalker Premiere

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