Russell Crowe's new biblical epic has been banned in Malaysia and Indonesia, along with three other Arab countries Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE (United Arab Emirates).
The two ASEAN countries are the latest Muslim countries to ban the film due to its depiction of the prophet. According to the censoring bodies of both countries which both have an Islam majority, the film has been barred from release due to its portrayal of "Noah," which is contrary to Islamic law.
Islam law shuns any representation of prophets, so as to prevent worship of a person rather than God.
"The film 'Noah' is not allowed to be screened in this country to protect the sensitivity and harmony in Malaysia's multiracial and multireligious community," said Film Censorship Board chairman Abdul Halim Abdul Hamid in a statement.
Board Chairman further told Malay Mail Online, "Yes, I can confirm that it has been banned by the board, the movie can cause quite a lot of anger and distress if it is shown in Malaysia," reports GMA.
According to the "Noah" film's website, the film, directed by Darren Aronofsky, is described as:
Russell Crowe stars as Noah in the film inspired by the epic story of courage, sacrifice and hope.
Israel National News writes that aside from these countries, other Muslim nations are expected to ban the movie as well. These countries include Jordan, Kuwait and Egypt. Director Aronosfsky explained "there isn't really a controversy. The controversy is all about the unknown and about the fear of people trying to exploit a Bible story. It will all disappear as soon as people start seeing the film."
The Hollywood blockbuster film 'Noah' premiered in the United States on March 28 and is based on the Bible's Book of Genesis. Noah built an ark
View the movie's official trailer which stars Russell Crowe and Emma Watson: