DUBAI // Film distributors have changed the title of a movie called ‘Hammer of the Gods’ in line with local cultural sensibilities.
The swords and sandals action flick has been renamed ‘Hammer of the Gs’ ahead of its launch today.
Gianluca Chakra, the managing director of local distributors Front Row Filmed Entertainment, said the request came from the National Media Council.
“They preferred for us to change the title,” he said.
A spokesman for the National Media Council was unavailable for comment.
The 18+ certificate film features scenes of extreme violence.
Mr Chakra said that the trailer had to be edited with the new name of the film, and posters redesigned.
The UK production company Mr Chakra works with had no problems with the changes.
In April this year, video game sellers said a title called Injustice: Gods Among Us, would not be sold in the Emirates after advice from authorities.
No official reason was given for the decision.
Mr Chakra said the company had run into a similar issue when promoting a film called Maradona: Hand of God.
Although the film was initially approved for release, it received complaints because of the inappropriate use of the word ‘God’.
Mr Chakra said the company renamed the film Maradona: La Mano di Dio.
mcroucher@thenational.ae
