Topline
Netflix faced renewed criticism over its promotion of the French film “Cuties” as calls to “Cancel Netflix” erupted on social media Thursday and more than 300,0000 people have signed an August petition asking for the company to remove the film, claiming it “sexualizes” an 11-year-old girl.
The poster and description have been changed.
Key Facts
The hashtag “Cancel Netflix” was the leading trending topic in the U.S. on Twitter on September 10, a day after “Cuties” premiered on the streamer.
The Change.org petition posted August 19 called out the film’s original description, which screenshots show said the main character becomes “fascinated with a twerking dance crew” and “starts to explore her femininity” in hopes of joining.
The petition claims the movie is “disgusting,” “sexualizes” an 11-year-old for the “viewing pleasure of pedophiles” and is a negative influence for children.
The poster Netflix used to promote the film, which shows the young dancers posing provocatively, was widely criticized on social media last month.
In a tweet on August 20, Netflix said it is “deeply sorry for the inappropriate artwork” and that the image and description have been changed; Netflix did not respond to Forbes’ request for comment.
Further Background
This isn’t the first time Netflix has been the cause of controversy in recent months. In July, people condemned its decision to feature the “erotic drama” 365 Days which Netflix describes as “a woman falls victim to a dominant mafia boss, who imprisons her and gives her one year to fall in love with him.” Some critics accused the movie of glorifying sex trafficking and kidnapping to teens and young adults. The Netflix original series Indian Matchmaking received sharp criticism on social media with some claiming it normalizes gender stereotypes, colorism and classism.
Further Reading
Netflix Apologizes For “Inappropriate” ‘Cuties’ Poster That Was Criticized For Sexualizing Children (Deadline)
Petition to Remove Cuties From Netflix (Change.org)
