The Licensing Sub-Committee of Leeds Council met on Tuesday 25 June 2024 to discuss the certification of films for the upcoming Yorkshire Indian Film Festival and the film Farewell Amor. The committee approved the certification of both films, with detailed discussions on their content and suitability for different audiences.

Certification of Films for the Yorkshire Indian Film Festival

The committee reviewed the 00 Report - Yorkshire Indian Film Festival and discussed the certification of several films to be shown at the festival. The festival, which celebrates Indian cinema, will feature a variety of films, including documentaries, feature films, and short films. The committee considered the cultural significance of the films and their potential impact on the local community.

Councillors debated the appropriateness of certain scenes and themes, particularly those involving violence and adult content. One councillor noted, It's important that we balance cultural expression with community standards. Ultimately, the committee decided to approve the certification, allowing the films to be shown with appropriate age restrictions.

Certification of Farewell Amor

The film Farewell Amor was also up for certification. The committee reviewed the 00 Report - Farewell Amor and supplementary information, including Officer Comments. Farewell Amor tells the story of an Angolan immigrant family reunited in New York City after 17 years apart.

The discussion focused on the film's portrayal of complex family dynamics and cultural adjustment. Some councillors expressed concerns about scenes depicting domestic tension and emotional distress. However, others argued that the film's educational value and artistic merit outweighed these concerns. One councillor remarked, The film provides a poignant look at the immigrant experience, which is both timely and relevant.

After considering the arguments, the committee approved the certification of Farewell Amor with a recommendation for a 15+ age rating.

Supporting Documents

The meeting also included references to several supporting documents, such as 01 Appendix A and 02 Appendix B, which provided additional context and details on the films under review.

For more detailed information, the public can refer to the Public reports pack and the Agenda frontsheet for the meeting.