An Alabama movie theatre will not show the new Beauty and the Beast film when it is released because it features a gay character.
The Henagar Drive-In Theatre posted on its Facebook page on Friday night saying that it would not show the film when it is released, due to it featuring Disney's first gay character.
The character of LeFou, played by Josh Gad, will explore his sexuality after developing feelings for macho leading man Gaston, played by Luke Evans.
"He's confused about what he wants. It's somebody who's just realising that he has these feelings," director Bill Condon told Attitude magazine.
"Josh makes something really subtle and delicious out of it. And that's what has its pay-off at the end, which I don't want to give away. But it is a nice, exclusively gay moment in a Disney movie."
The Henagar Drive-In Theatre's Facebook post generated hundreds of comments both supporting and opposing the theatre's stance.
Carol Laney says when she took over the drive-in, she had a strict policy on what could be shown.
"As business owners, we take pride and caution in showing discernment in what we play at our drive-in."
She says her goal with the drive-in was to show movies that all families can watch.
"This by no means is sending a message of hatred or bigotry," she explained.
"However, we are Christians first and foremost, and must submit to our Bible and Christianity."
She says this decision was long thought out. Her and her family were excited about the movie as well but had to opt out of showing it because they say their faith comes first.
"We respect the choice of others who choose to respect other movie theatres by watching this movie. However, we hope that you respect our choice not to play it at our drive-in."
Beauty and the Beast is released in New Zealand on March 30.
CBS News / Newshub.
