KFCB bans documentary film ‘I am Samuel’
The Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB) has banned a documentary film, I am Samuel, claiming that it promotes homosexuality.
In a statement, KFCB said the 52-minute film violates Article 165 of the Penal code and the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222, which outlaws homosexuality.
The board said that he documentary film directed by Pete Murimi and produced by Toni Kamau, is not suitable for viewing by a Kenyan audience as its content attempts to normalise same-sex marriage as an acceptable way of life.
“…the Board noted a clear deliberate attempt by the producer to promote, same-sex marriage as an acceptable way of life. This attempt is evident through the repeated confessions by the gay couple that what they feel for each other is normal and should be embraced as a way of life, as well as the characters’ body language, including scenes of kissing of two male lovers,” stated the board.
According to the board, the documentary ultimately features marriage of two men, and concludes with the dedication of the film to the gay community.
Additionally, KFCB says the film seeks to persuade viewers that the elder generation, which was earlier opposed to LGBTQ+, is gradually coming around and accepting same-sex marriage as a normal way of life.
KFCB added that the Human Rights Watch Film Festival and London Film Festival selection is blasphemous.
“The production is demeaning of Christianity as two gay men in the film purport to conduct a religious marriage invoking the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. On the basis of religion as a classifiable element, the Board finds the documentary not only blasphemous but also an attempt to use religion to advocate same-sex marriage,” read the statement.
The Board also reminded local and international filmmakers to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Film and Stage Act Cap 222 of the Laws of Kenya by acquiring filming licenses as well as submitting their content for examination and classification for age suitability.
Filmed over five years, I am Samuel is an intimate portrait of a Kenyan man balancing pressures of family loyalty, love, and safety and questioning the concept of conflicting identities.
