The screening of a controversial film Obsession: Radical Islam’s War Against the West about Islamic extremists has sparked off controversy in Canada, as concerns have been raised by local Muslims.



Local Jewish groups have sponsored the film. Members of Muslim community have filed a formal complaint about the film with the city police hate crimes unit. Police say they have reviewed the matter and don’t believe the film constitutes hate speech.



The film has been reviewed by the Manitoba (Canada) Film Classification Board, a provincial body responsible for rating films. The board gave it a rating of 14A - requiring adult accompaniment for children under age 14 - with warnings for violence and disturbing content.



‘It does not promote hatred ... it exposes hatred’, says a sponsor.



The Muslim community has denied of planning a protest at the theatres but is concerned the film will bring about a backlash of anti-Islamic acts. Its leader is calling on police to provide security at local mosques and Muslim schools after the film’s screening.



Thanks: cbc.ca/manitoba