Egypt, Singapore OK 'Passion'

Pic is first to receive new M18 rating

By JANET FINE, MAGZ OSBORNE

Censors have passed Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" for screening in Egypt and Singapore uncut.

Five prints will be distribbed by Egypt's Allied Film Distributors.

Few movies depicting Jesus have reached Egyptian screens.

Franco Zeffirelli's "Jesus of Nazareth" (1976) was screened for only five days in Cairo, then pulled to pacify extremists groups.

Since then, all other dramatic depictions of the life of Christ have been shown on videotapes in specialized Christian libraries or in Coptic churches and cultural centers.

In Singapore, "Passion" is the first movie to receive the new M18 rating, for viewers 18 and over. The five-tier film ratings becomes effective March 29, with M18 filling a void between NC16 (no children under 16) and R21 (restricted to 21 and older). Film will be released April 1.

In view of the movie's religious sensitivities, the Film Consultative Panel queried religious leaders from the Christian and Jewish communities, reaching a majority decision that the film gave a balanced account.