The opening scenes of the Netflix series “3 Body Problem” depict a brutal struggle session during China’s Cultural Revolution, leaving the protagonist’s father dead and her disillusioned with humanity. Despite being based on a popular Chinese science fiction novel, the adaptation has been met with criticism in China for not being entirely set in China, racially diverse casting, and changes to characters. Some feel that the series is pandering to Western audiences by portraying China negatively, causing offense and suspicion among viewers. The cultural impact and censorship in China have shaped public perceptions and responses to the series, as many take entertainment too seriously and history and politics lightly.
The blockbuster books and their author, Liu Cixin, have a significant following in China due to the country’s techno-utopian culture. The series portrays China as a scientific powerhouse engaging with the universe, reflecting Mr. Liu’s exploration of good and evil in his work. However, Chinese social media focuses on the lack of Chinese elements and perceived unflattering portrayals of the country. Viewers have flocked to pirated versions, with diverse casting and the portrayal of violence during the Cultural Revolution drawing particular ire among Chinese audiences. The censorship of sensitive topics like the Cultural Revolution makes any discussion of it taboo, highlighting the challenges of depicting historical events in modern Chinese media.
The Cultural Revolution, a dark period in Chinese history, plays a critical role in the “3 Body Problem” trilogy, leading the protagonist to despair in humanity. The series’ depiction of the struggle session reflects the violent reality of the era, which still haunts many in China today. Due to censorship and taboo, it would be challenging for Mr. Liu to publish a similar book now, showing the changing landscape of cultural and political discourse in China. The lack of understanding surrounding the atrocities committed during the Cultural Revolution is a cause for concern among Chinese viewers, as many remain unaware of the full extent of the country’s past.
The reactions to the Netflix series show the complex relationship China has with its history and portrayal in media, with some viewing the adaptation as a Western attempt to demonize the country. The blending of science fiction with historical events challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about China’s past, sparking debates and discussions online. By addressing the darker aspects of Chinese history, the series forces viewers to reconsider their perspectives and understanding of the Cultural Revolution, a chapter many would rather forget. Ultimately, the controversy surrounding “3 Body Problem” highlights the ongoing struggles in China between censorship, cultural pride, and historical memory.
