Thailand's film censors block 'Zack and Miri Make a Porno'

The National Film Board is standing by its decision to ban "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" in Thailand, citing that its explicit sexual content goes against moral principles here. The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) initially gave "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" an NC-17 rating (banning viewers under 17) for "some graphic sexuality". However, director Kevin Smith appealed and the film finally got an R with no cuts. The R, or "Restricted" rating, requires viewers under 17 years old to be accompanied by an adult.

Set in the United States, the comedy tells the story of friends embarking on a project to make a porn movie.

'May encourage copycats'

"The screening of this film may encourage copycats here," Culture Ministry permanent secretary Vira Rojpojchanarat said yesterday.

The film's distributor, M Pictures, argued that "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" was a satirical take on contemporary US society and was suitable for viewers aged over 18.

When the National Film Board decided to ban the film during its meeting on Monday, M Pictures appealed and a panel was set up to review the board's ruling.

After viewing the film, the panel upheld the decision to ban "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" from Thai screens.