NSPCA has Babalas problems

A recent press release suggests that the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) was very concerned about certain scenes in the film Babalas.

The statement, as issued on 16 August, addresses the portrayal of a primate drinking beer and smoking in the trailer shown prior to the film’s release. According to the NSPCA statement, the Council approached Peter Scott, Babalas producer, to discuss the concerns of “passionate people” that they have received.

Christine Kuch, on behalf of the NSPCA, stated that “response was received from his [Scott’s] attorneys.

“The response assured the NSPCA that the animal was not harmed and that the can of beer actually contained fruit juice.”

According to Kuch’s understanding of the attorneys’ comment, the smoking sequence was also produced by using a PhotoShop technique.

The NSPCA’s statement of 16 August suggests that the attorneys’ comment was not sufficient, and they reverted to their concerns, which pertain to portrayal and perception.

“It is a great shame that, in a time where disrespect (if not outright cruelty) to animals is rife, the intention was to portray an animal drinking beer and smoking,” said Kuch.

The NSPCA has requested that the producer and his team respond to follow-up questions.

“May we please ask if the filming was monitored by a representative of a registered animal welfare organisation?”

Another request for proof of a license pertaining to the Performing Animals Protection Act was made.

“Both the above would be appreciated as the information will assist us to respond to any further communications on the matter from the public [sic].”

Kuch says that by 26 August neither Scott nor his lawyers have issued a response.