...if you'd rather see that version

A tamer version of the Bruno film is to be released next week, to widen its possible audience.

Film-goers will be able to choose from either the current 18-certificate cut or a 15-rated version from next Friday.

It is the first time alternate versions of a film have been released in Britain at the same time.

Distributors Universal Pictures said it had re-cut the film after cinemas reported turning away large numbers of teenagers during the opening weekend.

The film grossed an estimated £5 million in its opening weekend, securing it the top spot at the box office here as in the States, where it took $30.4 million. According to trade magazine Variety, it was the highest grossing opening weekend for any adult-rated comedy in the UK and the biggest opening Friday of all time for an 18-certificate.

The toned-down version, which will also be released in Ireland, will be just 1 minute 50 seconds shorter than the original version.

Universal’s international president David Kosse said: ‘Due to the overwhelming demand by fans who are desperate to see the film, we're really pleased to be able to offer a 15-certificate version.

‘Both of these versions will allow many more of Bruno's fans in the U.K. to enjoy the film.’

Some scenes already hit the cutting room floor before its release. Producers agreed to make cuts to stop the film being given a restrictive NC-17 rating in America, which would have banned anyone under the age of 17 from seeing it.

And days before release, a scene involving Michael Jackson's sister La Toya, involving repeated references to the dead pop star, was removed ‘out of respect’ for the family.

Published: 13 Jul 2009