The Chinese version of the film is probably censored by AI. (Together/Neon)
Daniel's new horror film together Reports say that gay couples are digitally altered characters to make them look like heterosexuals.
Artificial intelligence appears to be used in the Chinese release of Australian films To change the gender identity of the characters, we do not leave any LGBTQ+ expressions in the story.
In the original film, the audience watches the newlywed couple played by Charlie Leeds and MJ Donning. However, Chinese cinemas could see the straight couple, where the former was essentially removed from the film.
According to Bloomberg, those who saw the film's early screenings in mainland China on September 12th said it appears there's nothing normal until they learn of the changes caused by social media.
From Adam and Steve to Adam and Eve
This is an AI use you've never thought of! The horror film Together featured a gay couple in the Chinese version of the surrounding roles spelled out by a straight couple (see below).
There are no spoilers, but this definitely makes a movie… pic.twitter.com/bsxw5019uj
– Angelica🌐⚛️🇹🇼🇨🇳🇺🇸 (@Angelicooung) September 17, 2025
One of X/Twitter complained that the character change “doesn't make the film much more meaningful.” Another, writing on film ratings website Douban, said that censorship is “a disrespectful to the original work and another challenge to audience tolerance,” adding, “they want our money, but don't show the full version. It's disrespectful to the LGBT community.”
The People's Republic of China brought new censorship in 2016 under the gender principle of the production of television drama content that prohibits “all portrayals of gay people on television.” This policy also applies to films and other media.
Content depicting LGBTQ+ people is completely edited or prohibited, and while this is considered the first example of AI being used to enforce censorship, the Chinese film regime has not commented. Chinese distributors have stopped plans for a full release of the film, which also stars Dave Franco, as criticism of change grew.
In recent months, Chinese police have arrested at least 30 people for writing and publishing gay erotica known as Danmei online. The charges impose a penalty of more than 10 years in prison. Two years ago, authorities removed songs containing LGBTQ+ themes from the concert set list of Taiwanese pop star A-Mei, and security guards forced fans to remove rainbow symbols and clothing.
However, a survey last month revealed that over half of Chinese people support the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
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