Kuwait Bans Australian Horror Film ‘Talk to Me’ Over Actor Identifying as Non-Binary Trans Person

In a world that is striving for greater acceptance and understanding of diverse identities, Kuwait’s decision to ban “Talk to Me”, an Australian horror film, is a step in the wrong direction. The ban centers around the portrayal of a trans character by actor Zoe Terakes.

Kuwait didn’t approve the film because of Terakes identifying as a non-binary trans person. The actor said the film doesn’t have queer themes and doesn’t even mention their transness or queerness. “I am a trans actor who happened to get the role. I’m not a theme. I’m a person.”

Terakes took to Instagram to say that Kuwait’s ban left them feeling targeted and dehumanized. “I’ve been wondering how to respond to this. Whether it deserves the dignity of a response. Representation is hope. Representation is the light at the end of the tunnel. It is a reason to keep going, something to hold onto in the dark. A voice that whispers things can be better.”

The actor said eliminating trans people on screens will not eliminate trans people, as much as the Kuwait government wishes it would. “But it will eliminate a lot of hope. And, hope is a large part of how we live as marginalized people.”

Terakes highlighted that they are a community that has learned to depend on each other because cis people have historically been no help. “Our survival is so dependent on our ability to look at each other. My heart breaks for the trans people and queer people of Kuwait who have so few places to look.”

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Talk to Me’s production company Causeway and international distributor Bankside stands in solidarity with Zoe Terakes. “Zoe has made their own statement, which we fully support, and we are immensely proud of their involvement in the film.” Danny Philippou, the film’s co-director, said Zoe, who plays Hayley, was perfect for the role. “I was not going to shoot the film unless they were available.”

Kuwait’s decision to ban Talk to Me is a missed opportunity to promote dialogue, empathy, and understanding. Zoe Terakes’ portrayal of a trans character should be celebrated for its authenticity and courage, and not suppressed. It is crucial for nations to embrace diverse narratives and engage in meaningful conversations.