Egypt censors Lebanese ‘sex bomb’ Haifa Wehbe’s new film

The screening of the Egyptian movie “Sweetness of Spirit” or “Halawet al roh” in Arabic starring Lebanese diva Haifa Wehbe was delayed by the Censorship Committee officials in Cairo.

Scenes of Wehbe's rape with actor Mohammad Lutfi and a scene of her kissing actor Basim Samrah in particular raised the concern of the committee, the news website noted.

The committee refused to issue a permit for the film or any other decision regarding the movie because it was unfinished, Ahmad Awad, head of the Censorship Committee, told Al Arabiya News channel.

No comments will be given nor censorship will be imposed until “Sweetness of spirit” is fully completed, Awad said.

The London based daily news website Elaph reported that the Censorship Committee decided to delay the film’s release after they discovered it contained profanities and sexually provocative scenes.

“Sweetness of spirit” revolves around a woman named Roh who tries to overcome the daily hardships of her life.

Egypt already had restrictions on film makers in place under President Hosni Mubarak, requiring them to seek approval from the Censorship Bureau to screen their work.

After his overthrow in 2011, film makers were hoping for more artistic freedom, but critics of the government say little has changed, according to Reuters.

Wehbe is a renowned model, singer and socialite who is regarded by admirers and observers as an Arab beauty icon and as a ‘sex bomb’ by fans.