instead of the typical Hollywood blockbusters. Though this is largely due to delayed releases and other consequences of the pandemic, it might have inspired China to implement isolationist economic policies in favor of its own entertainment industry, with the ban on “Shang-Chi” just the latest example.
Furthermore, China’s ban on “effeminate men” from entertainment seems to target wildly popular K-pop acts that enjoy fervently dedicated fan bases. The government’s restrictions decrease consumer spending that benefits neighboring nations rather than the Chinese music industry. South Korea’s global music sensation BTS, which reports an astounding annual revenue of
, was met with anger and censorship in China last year when the band leader made comments about the Korean War.world's largest economy . Quiet acts of rebellion occur in China every day. Citizens take on great risk to find work-arounds on restrictions, such as using another person’s login or watching movies illegally. Where the fandom and appetite is strong enough, the art and the messages of banned media like “Shang-Chi” are still likely to reach their audiences, even if pirated copies are the only way to make it happen .
Whatever content and transactions Beijing is effective in limiting, the sheer volume and scope of the restrictions underscore what a colossal task China has in imposing this order. Ultimately, these social and economic measures may well drive more Chinese citizens to leave the country, producing the next generation of trailblazers like Chloé Zhao and Simu Liu.Michelle Yang is an advocate who speaks and writes about the intersection of Asian American identity, feminism, and mental health.
jaanhasim THINK ASIAN HATE ALERT! We all see the US bases around China. No need pretending you are not on the WAR PATH drumming up emotions so people be angry enough to sacrifice ANOTHER generation of their children to ANOTHER GREED war!
THINK We are getting more of this type of news virtually weekly. It’s no longer good enough to just say “China”. How much of is Xi and his closest allies’ decision. Is somebody inside the party forcing them? Are they pushing? It does give a bit of a feel or strive.