"Netflix's Casting of Denzel Washington as Hannibal Sparks Race Controversy in Tunisia"

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Source: The Guardian
"Netflix's Casting of Denzel Washington as Hannibal Sparks Race Controversy in Tunisia"
Photo: The Guardian
TL;DR

The decision to cast Denzel Washington as Hannibal in an upcoming Netflix film has sparked a race controversy in Tunisia, the birthplace of the ancient Carthaginian general. Tunisian newspapers, social media, and even the parliament have seen debates on the historical accuracy and representation of Hannibal's skin tone. Some critics accused Netflix of promoting "woke culture," while an online petition called for the cancellation of the film. The issue of race has been heightened in Tunisia due to the influx of sub-Saharan migrants. Tunisian MP Yassine Mami questioned the culture minister about the project in parliament, emphasizing the need to defend Tunisian identity. The culture minister, however, focused on negotiating with Netflix to shoot parts of the film in Tunisia.

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