Live Wire

David Schwimmer,the former Friends star has lost a bid to soften the rating for his latest directing effort,a movie about the dangers of online predators. Trust,due out in theatres on April 1,was handed a restrictive “R” rating for “disturbing material involving the rape of a teen,language,sexual content and some violence.” Executive producer Avi Lerner had said in a statement that it was important for the film to be seen by teenagers,especially as a cautionary tale. Schwimmer had said that he would not modify the film in order to receive a lesser rating. The film stars Clive Owen and Catherine Keener.

The X Factor,a British tv talent show,will be investigated by Ofcom,the British office that regulates television and other media,after a performance by Christina Aguilera and Rihanna on that show generated more than 4,000 complaints,The Guardian reported. Rihanna and Aguilera appeared on The X Factor episode shown on December 11,from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.,which drew about 14 million viewers. Aguilera was promoting her movie Burlesque and performed two songs from its soundtrack in racy numbers meant to evoke the film’s suggestive sensibilities. Rihanna sang her song What’s My Name and,as part of her routine,stripped out of a long gown to reveal more minimal attire underneath.

Insects in the Backyard,a movie about a transgender father struggling to raise two children,has been banned by Thailand’s film board,a move which the director says highlights the conservative side of Thai society despite its freewheeling reputation. The National Film Board ruled earlier this week that the film cannot be shown in Thailand because it contains scenes that are immoral and pornographic. Authorities have not yet published a public explanation of the ban but culture and film officials said the board objected to several scenes. Director Tanwarin Sukkhapisit said the scenes were crucial to the story line and could not be cut. She plans to appeal the ban.