Chinese moviegoers will never get the chance to see the Hollywood blockbuster biblical epic movie, Noah, after China reportedly blocked the release of the film in local cinemas.

Although Chinese movies regulator has not issued a statement regarding the report, sources said Paramount Pictures, the movie's producer, failed to get a release slot in China.

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The Los Angeles Times reported that Paramount Pictures stressed the film's environmental message and special effects when it applied for a release slot.

The Biblical basis of the movie, starring Russell Crowe, however, was probably given weight by Chinese authorities.

The movie has already been banned in several Muslim countries around the world even as it earned almost US $100 million in the first six weeks of screening in the United States. The movie is banned in Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Indonesia and Bahrain.

Beijing has been sensitive on religious issues and has barred entry of movies and TV shows that have religious themes.

According to the Los Angeles Times report, another source revealed that the movie could have been refused a China release because several other Hollywood movies are due to be released in the coming weeks.

Among the Hollywood blockbusters are will be shown and are currently being shown in China are Godzilla (13 June), The Amazing Spider-Man, which has raked in USD9.8m on its first day, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier, which took USD113m in China.

Noah has already earned US $99 million in the US and another US $233 million overseas.

Noah, to those who have not heard about his story, was ordered by God to build a huge ark to save believers from the big flood.

The movie, however, earned criticisms from Christians and Muslims alike due to Crowe unconventional portrayal of the important Biblical personality.

TagsNoah, Noa Movie, Noah China, Russel Crowe