Vietnam Takes a Stand: 'Barbie' Movie Banned Due to Controversial South China Sea Map

By Lucia Paula , Parent Herald Jul 05, 10:31 am

Vietnam has recently made the decision to ban Warner Bros.' highly anticipated film "Barbie" from being distributed domestically due to a scene that depicts a map featuring China's disputed territory in the South China Sea. The ban, announced by state media on Monday, marks the latest instance of Vietnam taking a firm stance against movies showcasing China's controversial "nine-dash line."

The "nine-dash line" refers to a U-shaped demarcation line used on Chinese maps to assert its territorial claims over vast areas of the South China Sea, including regions that Vietnam considers part of its continental shelf. According to CNN, Vietnam has already awarded oil concessions in these contested areas. However, an international arbitration ruling by a court in The Hague in 2016 invalidated China's claims over the South China Sea. Despite this ruling, China has refused to acknowledge it.

History of Bans: "Barbie" Joins List of Films Banned in Vietnam Over South China Sea Map

"Barbie" is not the first film to face a ban in Vietnam for featuring the disputed nine-dash line. In 2019, the Vietnamese government pulled DreamWorks' animated film "Abominable," and last year, it banned Sony's action movie "Uncharted" for the same reason. Additionally, Netflix removed the Australian spy drama series "Pine Gap" in 2021 due to its depiction of the contentious map.

The movie "Barbie," starring renowned actors Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, was initially scheduled for release in Vietnam on July 21, simultaneously with its premiere in the United States, according to the state-run Tuoi Tre newspaper.

Vi Kien Thanh, the head of Vietnam's Department of Cinema, the government body responsible for licensing and censoring foreign films, stated, "We do not grant a license for the American movie 'Barbie' to release in Vietnam because it contains the offending image of the nine-dash line." Warner Bros. has not yet provided a comment in response to the ban.

The territorial dispute between Vietnam and China in the South China Sea has been a longstanding issue, with both countries claiming ownership over the potentially energy-rich region. Vietnam has frequently accused Chinese vessels of violating its sovereignty in the area.

The banning of "Barbie" underscores Vietnam's commitment to upholding its territorial claims and rejecting any attempt to legitimize China's controversial map. By taking this action, Vietnam aims to assert its position and maintain its stance on the South China Sea dispute.

Upholding National Interests: Vietnam Sends Strong Message to China through Ban

The ban on "Barbie" reflects Vietnam's determination to protect its national interests and uphold the integrity of its maritime boundaries. It also serves as a strong message to China that Vietnam will not tolerate any portrayal that undermines its sovereignty and territorial rights.

This move by Vietnam is significant not only because it highlights the ongoing tension in the South China Sea but also because it raises questions about the impact of such bans on the film industry and cultural exchange between nations. As countries continue to navigate the complexities of territorial disputes, the banning of movies can potentially hinder cross-cultural understanding and dialogue.

While the ban on "Barbie" may disappoint Vietnamese moviegoers who were eagerly anticipating the film, it underscores Vietnam's commitment to its sovereignty and serves as a reminder of the sensitivity surrounding the South China Sea issue.

As the controversy surrounding the depiction of the nine-dash line continues, it remains to be seen how the ban on "Barbie" will impact future releases and the wider discussion surrounding territorial disputes in the region. The ban serves as a reminder that the South China Sea remains a contentious issue and highlights the ongoing struggle for control and recognition of territorial claims.