Elton John and Rocketman star Taron Egerton's fury at Russian removal of gay scenes

Elton John at the Cannes Film Festival screening of Rocketman earlier this month
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Sir Elton John and Rocketman star Taron Egerton have condemned the decision by a Russian film company to cut gay sex scenes from new biopic Rocketman.

The local distributor of the film claimed it cut the scenes from the film to comply with Russian laws.

Sir Elton described the decision as a "sad reflection of the divided world we still live in", while Egerton said he was "crestfallen".

The British singer and the Rocketman filmmakers said: "We reject in the strongest possible terms the decision to pander to local laws and censor Rocketman for the Russian market, a move we were unaware of until today.

Taron Egerton also condemned the decision by Russian censors to remove gay scenes from the film
Getty Images for The Academy Of

"Paramount Pictures have been brave and bold partners in allowing us to create a film which is a true representation of Elton's extraordinary life, warts and all.

"That the local distributor has edited out certain scenes, denying the audience the opportunity to see the film as it was intended is a sad reflection of the divided world we still live in and how it can still be so cruelly unaccepting of the love between two people.

"We believe in building bridges and open dialogue, and will continue to push for the breaking down of barriers until all people are heard equally across the world."

Egerton, who has won praise for his portrayal of Sir Elton in the film, wrote on Instagram: "I am crestfallen that the decision was made to censor our movie for the Russian market.

"I'm even more disappointed to hear about it second hand today on the day of our domestic release.

"I in no way condone this decision and feel disappointed I wasn't made aware and given the chance to fight this move.

"Love is love. No compromises."

He added a rainbow emoji, which is a symbol of LGBT pride.

Critics in Russia said scenes depicting sexual acts and kissing between men had been removed.

Russian film critic Anton Dolin posted on Facebook regarding the film: "All scenes of kisses, sex and oral sex between men have been cut.

"From the movie took only minutes 5, but it's very noticeable. It's about a principled five minutes, very important for artistic purpose."

Sir Elton has history with Russia, warning about threats to gay rights in the nation, and receiving a call from Vladimir Putin.

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