Overview
- Neon told CBC News the edit by Chinese distributor Hishow was unauthorized and demanded that the altered version stop circulating.
- Hishow withdrew the film from Chinese theaters at Neon's request after initial preview screenings began earlier in September.
- Side-by-side images shared on Chinese social platforms showed a face-swapped wedding scene, drawing criticism as disrespectful to the original work and to LGBTQ people.
- Multiple outlets report the change may have used AI face replacement, though the technique and who ordered it have not been confirmed.
- Film scholars note China’s track record of altering LGBTQ content, usually by cutting scenes rather than digitally modifying them, citing past examples such as Bohemian Rhapsody.