Mubi, once a niche streaming platform catering to cinephiles, has been making waves as it transforms into a respected distributor of high-profile films. However, recent developments have brought troubling news.
Hollywood activists are calling for a boycott of the company due to its growing financial ties with Sequoia Capital, which provided Mubi with a $100 million investment in May to bolster its expansion into new cinematic markets.
At first glance, the partnership seems unremarkable — Sequoia boasts an impressive portfolio including tech giants like Apple, Google, ByteDance, Cisco, and Nvidia. Yet, controversy erupted when it emerged that the firm also backs less conventional ventures, such as the Israeli startup Kela.
This company, founded by former Israeli intelligence veterans, develops operating systems for the Israeli military (IDF), a connection that has turned toxic for many since the onset of the Gaza conflict.
The backlash has spilled onto social media, with users on former Twitter platforms demanding Mubi return the funds and cancel the association.
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Mubi’s leadership now faces a delicate situation. Returning the investment amid online outrage is unlikely, especially as the company navigates this critical phase of growth. Instead, they’re resorting to damage control with vague press releases, pleading for activists to reconsider while steering clear of decisive action.
