Why a R-rated Film In a Buddhist Film Fest Is Turning Heads
Picture this: a film festival that prides itself on quiet contemplation and lotus vibes suddenly throws a R21 thriller into the mix. No, it’s not a typo — the Singapore Buddhist Federation (SBF) is sounding the alarm about the newcomer dubbed Suffering of Ninko.
The Fire‑ed Backlash
- Venerable Seck Kwang Phing (SBF President) rues the film’s “risque” content, arguing it does nothing to showcase or uplift Buddhist practice.
- “Buddhism doesn’t champion hedonism or repression, it’s all about understanding desire,” Seck says, echoing a chorus of supporting voices inside SBF.
- He notes the film’s opening scenes are “purely pornic” and utterly devoid of Buddhist substance.
The Festival’s Counter‑Pitch
Organisers, led by committee chairman Teo Puay Kim, defend the casting decision.
- They claim the R21 stamp is merely a distraction and that the movie’s core message—how to “navigate desire” without surrendering to it—aligns with Buddhist teachings.
- Teo promises a clear heads‑up about the mature content, assuring attendees that the film is a tool for deeper reflection, not just a party trick.
- He adds that since 2009, the festival has always cherry‑picked films based on merit, not ratings.
Mixed Reactions From Fans
- A young film critic, Paige Lim (24) is intrigued: “It’s experimental, it’s talked about abroad. I’m in—who wouldn’t want a fresh perspective?”
- Lin Rong Xiang (36), a computer engineer and devout Buddhist, sees the film as a lens into the Japanese Edo‑period Buddhist tradition and would watch it as long as it’s legal.
- Overall, the festival will stretch from Sept 22‑29 at Shaw Theatres Lido.
Bottom Line
The debate boils down to a classic dilemma: Should a sacred space include provocative content to spark discussion? While critics are cracking jokes about the film’s “risque” nature, organisers see it as a chance to broaden the festival’s dialogue. Only time will reveal whether the audience, like the monks in the style, can find peace amidst the foam.
