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Some defenders have pointed to the film winning an award at Sundance as a shield against criticism, suggesting that artistic merit should exempt "Cuties" from scrutiny. However, critics contend that acclaim does not excuse content that depicts minors in a sexualized manner.
Hollywood figures and some media outlets have attempted to defend "Cuties," with claims that the film aims to expose and criticize the sexualization of children. Nonetheless, critics argue that the explicit scenes do the opposite—a defense they believe is insufficient and unethical.