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Ali G film release and boycott controversy

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2026-08-31 07:44 UTC → 2026-09-01 21:26 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Sacha Baron Cohen has released the trailer for his upcoming mockumentary, ‘Ali G: Who Iz I?’, which marks the return of his iconic character more than two decades after his previous big-screen appearance. The film, which serves as a sequel to the 2002 production ‘Ali G Indahouse’, follows the character as he discovers his long-term girlfriend, Julie, is eight months pregnant. In an effort to provide for his family and reclaim his former fame, Ali G travels to the United States. The trailer indicates the film will feature the character’s signature style of interacting with real people, including medical professionals and US military representatives. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Four By Two Films, and Working Title Films, the movie is scheduled for theatrical release on October 23, 2026. This project also marks Cohen’s directorial debut. Following the trailer release, the film has faced controversy regarding its use of satire. The media watchdog NewsCord has urged major cinema chains, such as Odeon and Cineworld, to boycott the movie, alleging that Cohen uses satire as a ‘cover for enforcing racist stereotypes’ and describing the character as a ‘racist caricature.’ Detractors have specifically raised concerns regarding the mockery of working-class women and the sexualization of Black ~~women.~~ women, with activists alleging the character reinforces harmful stereotypes targeting the Jamaican community. British writer Afua Hirsch has criticized the character as a ‘crude compound’ of offensive elements, suggesting the humor no longer aligns with modern social standards. ~~Some supporters, however, view the character as a satirical tool used to highlight social contradictions.~~ In response to the backlash, Picturehouse Cinemas announced it has ‘no current plans’ to screen the film. The ~~boycott campaign led by NewsCord reportedly claims~~ controversy has expanded to ~~have received over 37,000 emails.~~ the United States, where a scheduled screening at the Vidiots film organization was canceled following allegations of racism and Zionism. Cohen has noted the difficulty of performing offensive comedy in the current social climate.

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