The anime film faced criticism and backlash due to alleged censorship of certain scenes. Specifically, a romantic kiss between two female characters was edited out or toned down in some regions, sparking debate among fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
The controversy began when viewers noticed that a romantic kiss between Hibike and another female character, Ely, was either removed, edited, or toned down in some countries, including the United States, Canada, and several European nations. This led to accusations of censorship and sparked a heated discussion on social media platforms, with many fans expressing their disappointment and frustration.
The censorship controversy surrounding "Bubble" received significant attention, with many fans and advocacy groups expressing their concerns. Some argued that the edits undermined the film's intent and artistic vision, while others saw it as an example of ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ representation in media.
While the exact reasons behind the censorship are unclear, it is speculated that the edits were made to comply with regional content guidelines and rating systems. Netflix has faced similar controversies in the past, where content was altered or removed to conform to local regulations.
The discussion around "Bubble" highlights the need for continued dialogue on censorship, representation, and creative freedom. As the anime industry continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize artistic integrity, transparency, and inclusivity to foster a more diverse and vibrant cultural landscape.
The anime community and critics responded to the controversy, with some lamenting the censorship and others understanding the complexities of content regulation. The incident highlighted the ongoing debate about creative freedom, censorship, and the importance of representation in media.
The controversy surrounding "Bubble" serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in producing and distributing content across diverse regional and cultural contexts. While the edits may have been made with the intention of complying with local regulations, they ultimately sparked a necessary conversation about creative freedom, censorship, and representation.
"Bubble" is a Japanese anime film directed by Kohei Murakami and produced by Wit Studio. The movie premiered on Netflix in 2022. The story revolves around a young girl named Hibike, who forms a close bond with a mysterious boy named Sei, in a world where a strange phenomenon known as "The Bubble" has altered the laws of physics.