A recent report in Chinese state media is fueling rumors that two of late 2021’s major Marvel superhero films – “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” in September and “Eternals” in November, may not be approved for release in China.
A report on the MCU’s Phase Four films on the CCTV6 China Movie Channel aired a full list of the U.S. release dates for eight of the ten scheduled titles – the other two mentioned above were conspicuously absent.
Said channel is under the jurisdiction of China’s propaganda department which also has the final word on film approvals. All foreign-made films seeking release in Chinese theaters must receive government approval and pass censorship.
Both the Marvel films have a direct connection to the country – “Shang-Chi” stars China-born Simu Liu, alongside household names Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Michelle Yeoh. “Eternals” was directed by China-born Oscar-winner Chloe Zhao.
The latter is the more likely one to hit hurdles as Zhao has emerged as persona non grata in China which effectively had a media blackout regarding news of her Oscar win.
“Shang-Chi” meanwhile has been dogged by nationalist complaints regarding Marvel villain The Mandarin, not to mention more personal criticism of stars Liu and Awkwafina for not meeting standards of ideal Chinese beauty.
Source: Variety
