The Miami Herald

February 18, 1998

 

Censors cut Amistad scene in Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica -- (AP) -- Censors have cut the opening scene of the movie Amistad, saying its depiction of a slave ship revolt is too graphic for Jamaican audiences.

 Critics claim the move by the government-appointed Jamaican Cinematographic Authority dilutes the movie's version of Caribbean black history.

 ``I associate censorship with a closed society,'' said Douglas Graham, owner of the three Palace Amusement Co. theaters where the film will be shown.

 The Cinematographic Authority also prohibited the movie from being shown to people under 18.

 ``It is an adult movie,'' said the Rev. Stanford Webley, president of the body. He noted the film carries an R, or restricted, rating in the United States.