‘Mulan’ Boycott Called By Protestors After Star Comes In Support For Hong Kong Police

Hong Kong protestors are calling for a boycott of Disney’s live-action Mulan after the film’s star Liu Yifei expressed support for the region’s police amidst the anti-extradition bill protests in the Chinese region.

Liu Yifei wrote on the social media platform Weibo the following statement in support of the Hong Kong police:

“I support Hong Kong’s police, you can beat me up now. What a shame for Hong Kong. #IAlsoSupportTheHongKongPolice”

Liu Yifei’s comments regarding the Hong Kong police have led to a backlash from Hong Kong protestors as well as among other groups outside of China, deeming Liu Yifei’s views as supportive of police brutality. Some also criticized Liu Yifei’s views as dismissive against Hong Kong protestors that are fighting for democracy and freedom in the region.

This has led protestors calling for a boycott on Disney’s Mulan, of which Liu Yifei stars in the titular role. The hashtag #BoycottMulan has been trending on Instagram and Twitter since. This boycott against Mulan had its roots in a Reddit-style forum in Hong Kong called Lihkg.

Some protestors have also called for a boycott of Disneyland, although it is unknown if it is referring to Hong Kong Disneyland or any other Disney Parks specifically.

In regards to the calls for the boycott against Mulan following Liu Yifei’s comments in support of the Hong Kong police, Disney has yet to make any public response.

Here is the synopsis for Mulan: 

When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honored warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner-strength and embrace her true potential. It is an epic journey that will transform her into an honored warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation…and a proud father.

Directed by Niki Caro from a screenplay by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver and Elizabeth Martin & Lauren Hynek, Disney’s Mulan stars Liu Yifei as Mulan; Donnie Yen as Commander Tung; Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan, Yoson An as Cheng Honghui; with Gong Li as Xianniang and Jet Li as the Emperor.

Disney’s Mulan will be released in theaters on March 27, 2020.