‘Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness’ Has Been Banned In Saudi Arabia

As with any Marvel release, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is surrounded by an intense level of hype. Undeniably, a huge part of that is down to the fact that the well-beloved Sam Raimi is at the helm as director, but Wandavision also drummed up some interest in Wanda’s next arc.

As if that wasn’t enough, Sir Patrick Stewart is set to return as Professor Charles Xavier whilst Halle Berry and Ryan Reynolds are also rumoured to cameo in the film. In need of more? An insider recently expressed that the film has more surprises in store than Infinity War, Endgame, and Spider-Man: No Way Home. They certainly know us Marvel fans love a cameo. My interest is piqued but whilst there’s plenty of palpable excitement, that’s not quite the case everywhere.

As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness will not receive a distribution certificate in Saudi Arabia. This is understood to be due to the fact that the film includes a queer character. For those familiar with Marvel’s comics, the character in question is America Chavez.

It’s not the first Disney-owned release to struggle in Saudi Arabia. Marvel’s Eternals faced similar issues for its inclusion of a same-sex couple (Phastos and Ben), whilst West Side Story was met with similar resistance over its inclusion of a transgender character. Elsewhere, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is scheduled to hit cinemas on 6 May and we can’t wait to see America Chavez in action.