The animated blockbuster, "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," has been unexpectedly removed from movie schedules in over a dozen countries with predominantly Muslim populations. While no official statements have been released, the quiet removal points towards a brief scene featuring a transgender flag in the background as the likely cause.

Empire Entertainment, responsible for distributing the Sony Pictures film in the Middle East, has not responded to inquiries about the situation. Although no bans have been formally declared, sources suggest the film is unlikely to be screened in the region. An insider close to the film's production, speaking under anonymity, mentioned the UAE's strict censorship policies regarding children's entertainment as a contributing factor.

The Saudi Cinema's official Twitter account posted a message stating that films contradicting the nation's media regulations and lacking necessary amendments from production companies would not be approved, accompanying the statement with a poster of the film.

The film, featuring Miles Morales as Spider-Man, enjoyed a successful U.S. debut in early June, tripling the opening weekend earnings of its predecessor. Originally slated for a Middle Eastern release on June 22nd, preceding the Eid al-Adha holiday, the movie was listed on cinema schedules in several countries including Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Egypt until its sudden removal last week.

The image, released by Sony Pictures Animation, depicts Spider-Man (voiced by Shameik Moore) and Spider-Gwen (voiced by Hailee Steinfeld).

The likely reason behind the removal is a scene showing Gwen Stacy's room, which includes a transgender flag bearing the phrase "Protect Trans Kids." In many Arab countries, where Islamic law holds significant influence, homosexuality and transgender identity are often viewed as incompatible with religious and cultural norms.

While the UAE has previously attempted to relax censorship to project a more liberal image, the film's absence from schedules suggests continued sensitivity around these topics. Emaar Entertainment, a state-owned company and parent of Reel Cinemas, confirmed to the Associated Press that "Across the Spider-Verse" will not be shown, attributing the decision to Empire Entertainment.

This incident mirrors last year's ban on Disney's "Lightyear" in 13 Muslim-majority countries due to a lesbian kiss scene. The scene's inclusion followed employee protests after its initial removal, highlighting the ongoing tension between creative expression and cultural sensitivities.

In contrast to the current situation, the prequel, "Into the Spider-Verse," was well-received in the region upon its 2018 release. The character of Miles Morales, the first Black Spider-Man, gained popularity, with merchandise featuring his likeness widely available. The final installment of the trilogy is currently scheduled for release next year.