China blocks 'Azkaban' release, pirated DVDs abound

  July 8, 2004 at 12:02 AM ET
  Cheeser     HPANA (via Various)
  pirated dvds, harry potter pirated, harry potter dvd, harry potter china, chinese harry potter

As we reported in May, China has effectively blockedopens in new window the release of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban there, citing a continuing effort by the Communist government to strengthen morals.

Earlier, Chinese officials shut down 16,000 Internet cafes and told television personalities to present a more dignified image. One specific effect this is supposed to have: "reduce the negative impact of queer dressing and behaviour on youngsters."

The unavailability of Azkaban in theaters hasn't stopped street sales of illicit DVD versionsopens in new window of the film apparently originating in China, however.

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