Cinema maintains screening schedule for Bully Herbig's film "The Canoe of Manitu"
In recent days, a satirical news report circulated online claiming that the film "Das Kanu des Manitu" had been removed from cinemas. However, this report was not accurate, and it is essential to clarify the facts surrounding the situation.
Firstly, it is crucial to note that the news about "Filmpalast24" removing "Das Kanu des Manitu" is satire. The film, which is the sequel to the successful 2001 movie "Der Schuh des Manitu," has not been removed from the program of any cinema that planned to show it, according to the Association of German Film Theatres (HDF).
The film "Das Kanu des Manitu" has been the subject of debate, with critics labelling it as racist and homophobic. Among the heroes of the film are a homosexual protagonist and an "Apache" played by the German Michael Bully Herbig, who stars in the movie. Bully Herbig, in an interview with the Spiegel, explained that the film is simply meant to be funny and that no consideration has been given to any "woke" concerns.
The filmmakers are aware of the debate on cultural appropriation but do not capitulate to it, according to Bully Herbig. The film is set in a fictionalized version of the Wild West, which adds to the satirical nature of the production.
It is important to mention that there is no cinema chain called Filmpalast24 in Germany, according to Jonas von Fehrn-Stender, second deputy chairman of the HDF. The false news about "Das Kanu des Manitu" was spread on platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and TikTok.
The initial spread of the satirical news did not point out its satirical intent, leading to confusion among some readers. However, both profiles that initially spread the news later clarified that it was fabricated.
The false news about "Das Kanu des Manitu" received over 212,000 views, but the correction was only seen around 700 times. This highlights the importance of careful reading and verification of information before sharing it online.
In conclusion, "Das Kanu des Manitu" has not been removed from any cinema's program, and the initial satirical news report was not accurately represented as such. The film, with its satirical and humorous nature, continues to spark debate about cultural appropriation, as previously written by Welt before its release.
