Sex scene rules would be ‘censorship’ star says

Hollywood star Andy Serkis says new rules surrounding the filming of sex scenes could amount to “censorship” and stifle creativity.

Actors’ union Equity is considering bringing in guidance for intimate scenes on stage and screen in light of the Harvey Weinstein scandal.

The proposals, being discussed this week, could ban actors kissing with tongues and nudity in auditions.

Jennifer Lawrence spoke last year about being made to stand in a nude line-up.

Equity is understood to be looking at the suggestions as to how to deal with simulated sex as part of its report into sexual harassment, which is being released within the next fortnight.

The proposals include setting out the “best practice” for such scenes, which could also include actors covering genitalia.

But speaking on the Bafta awards red carpet on Sunday night, Serkis said of the proposals: “I think that kind of censorship is censorship of creativity.

“It should be arrived at by the director and the actors involved. They have to find a comfortable way of doing it that will tell the story, because that’s what we are all there to do.

“It would be a shame if actors become so self-conscious about relating to people. You’re there to use your imagination, to create a role. I don’t think that you should be stopped from telling the story.”

BBC