'West Is West' producer disappointed with A certificate

Mumbai, June 4 (IANS) British producer Leslee Udwin is disappointed that her film "West Is West", a sequel to popular film "East Is East", has been given an A certificate by the Indian censor board.

"There were about five people present at the censor board committee when I went and met them. They were charming and meaningful people and I had a good chat with them. But I was deeply disappointed with the result because this film is in the large measure about a 14-year-old boy's coming of age. So it is crucial for 13, 14, 15, 16-year-old kids to see this film," Udwin told reporters here.

"The film teaches that cultural values and roots are important along with being hilarious, uplifting and moving. So why are we depriving them from this film that gives such a message only because of a few abuses that are used in the film?"

"Everyone uses it, it's used in other films too, for the sake of few abuses why young people are deprived of a crucial message, it's a pity. I'm disappointed," she said.

"West Is West" that stars Om Puri, Ila Arun, Aqib Khan, Raj Bhansali, Veejay Raaz, Linda Bassett and Jimi Mistry in pivotal roles has been directed by Andy De Emmony and is slated to hit screens June 10.

"In England too, we have censorship board. But there we have 15 year certificate too. I would beg India to consider that because to say that there is nothing between 18 to small kids is not right. Fifteen-year-olds are grown ups. They are not babies. So that age group should also have a certification," said the producer.

"I begged the censor board for a U/A, but they did not give. I am sad," she added.

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West is West