Disney 'blocks' Moore documentary

Found on BBC on Wednesday, 05 May 2004
Browse Censorship

Controversial director Michael Moore has said film studio Disney is refusing to release his new documentary, which heavily criticises President Bush.

But Disney has "officially decided to prohibit" Miramax from distributing the film, the director said on his website.

Fahrenheit 911 links Mr Bush with powerful families in Saudi Arabia, including that of Osama Bin Laden, and attacks his actions before and after 11 September.

Disney bought Miramax 10 years ago but retained the rights to block films it deemed against its interests, such as adult-rated films.

"But there's nothing they can do about it now because it's done, it's awesome, and if I have anything to say about it, you'll see it this summer - because, after all, it is a free country."

But Zenia Mucha, a Disney spokesman, said: "We advised both [Moore's] agent and Miramax in May of 2003 that the film would not be distributed. That decision stands."

Dizney has proven its love for censorship more than once before. It is good to know that they cannot do anything against the release itself. They can try to block it on the US market, but it will make it's way around the world.