NOAH WASHED OUT IN CHINA

China will not allow Noah, starring Russell Crowe, to be screened in the country, despite the fact that Paramount produced a 3D IMAX version of the movie to help it gain a release there, the Los Angeles Times reported today (Thursday), citing two people with knowledge of the situation. (China gives 3D and IMAX versions special consideration in determining which foreign films will be accepted under its quota system; the movie was screened domestically in 2D.) The newspaper said that Paramount had also emphasized the film’s special effects and “environmental message” in their effort to secure a release slot. No reason was given for the rejection. The film has also been banned in numerous Muslim countries.