FridayOL

Mubi, the acclaimed arthouse streaming service and distributor, is facing a wave of criticism from over 35 filmmakers who are demanding the company publicly denounce what they call "genocide profiteering." The controversy stems from Mubi’s connection to Sequoia Capital, a venture capital firm with reported ties to investors linked to the Israeli military. Mubi CEO and founder Efe Cakarel has responded, firmly denying any connection between the company’s work and funding the ongoing conflict.

The initial outcry began with an open letter signed by prominent filmmakers, including Apichatpong Weerasethakul, Laura Poitras, and Asif Kapadia, expressing deep concern about Sequoia Capital’s investments and their potential implications. The letter explicitly called on Mubi to sever ties with Sequoia and to publicly condemn the actions of those profiting from the current situation. The filmmakers argued that Mubi's reputation as a champion of independent and artistic cinema is threatened by its association with an entity perceived to be supporting military actions.

In a lengthy statement posted on Mubi's website and shared across social media, Cakarel addressed the concerns directly. He emphasized that Mubi operates independently and that Sequoia Capital has no influence over the films the company acquires, distributes, or streams. “Suggestions our work is connected to funding the war is simply untrue,” Cakarel stated. He further clarified that Sequoia's investment in Mubi was made several years ago and that the company has no visibility into Sequoia’s broader investment portfolio.

Cakarel explained that Mubi's commitment to supporting independent filmmakers and showcasing diverse voices remains steadfast. He highlighted the company’s history of distributing films that challenge power structures and offer critical perspectives on global issues. “We are deeply committed to the values of peace, human rights, and artistic freedom,” Cakarel wrote. “We believe that cinema has the power to build bridges and foster understanding, and we will continue to use our platform to amplify these messages.”

The situation highlights the growing scrutiny faced by companies regarding their investors' activities, particularly in light of global conflicts. It also underscores the ethical considerations for cultural institutions like Mubi, which often position themselves as champions of social justice and artistic integrity. While Mubi maintains its innocence and denies any complicity, the controversy is likely to continue as filmmakers and audiences alike grapple with the complexities of funding and ethical responsibility in the entertainment industry.

The debate extends beyond Mubi, raising broader questions about the role of venture capital in supporting artistic endeavors and the responsibility of cultural organizations to vet their investors' activities. It's a conversation that's likely to shape the future of independent film distribution and the relationship between art and finance.