Russell Crowe’s new film Noah is causing a stir around the world before it’s even been released. The movie has been banned in some Arab countries, while Paramount Pictures have responded to criticism from Christians in the US about its accuracy by adding a disclaimer to the film’s marketing materials.

A high profile Islamic university in Egypt, Al-Azhar has reportedly condemned the film saying it violates Islamic law. Noah is revered by Christians and Muslims, and a chapter of the Koran is dedicated to telling the story of Noah, but Islamic law opposes any representation of its prophets, even positive, out of fear of idolatry. Gulf News reports the movie has been banned in three Arab countries (Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE), and that Paramount Pictures is expecting similar bans in Egypt, Jordan and Kuwait.

The Cairo Post reported one of Al-Azhar’s senior scholars has called for cinemas which show the film to be “destroyed”, although that suggestion has been officially rejected by the University.

The film has also faced criticism in the US for not being loyal enough to the biblical story, prompting the head of National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) group, Jerry Johnson, to write to Paramount Pictures, requesting a disclaimer be included with the film.

Paramount agreed to issue an ‘explanatory message’ on future marketing materials and for use as part of the film’s online and broadcast. The disclaimer states:

‘The film is inspired by the story of Noah.

While artistic license has been taken, we believe that this film is true to the essence, values, and integrity of a story that is a cornerstone of faith for millions of people worldwide.

The biblical story of Noah can be found in the book of Genesis.’

The disclaimer was based on a similar message included by DreamWorks at the start of The Prince of Egypt, which was an animation adaptation of the Exodus story.

In a statement on its website, Paramount Vice Chairman says, “We are deeply appreciative of Dr Johnson’s efforts to bring this idea to us. Our goal has been to take every measure we can to ensure moviegoers have the information they need before deciding to buy a ticket to see the film. We are very proud of Darren Aronofsky’s Noah. We think audiences all over the world will enjoy this epic film.”

Noah opens in cinemas in Australia on March 27.