Some Chinese fans are against Simu Liu’s casting for the Marvel superhero Shang-Chi as they find him ‘Too ugly.’
The Chinese-Canadian actor famously known for sitcom Kim’s Convenience is on cloud nine ever since he has been finalized to play the fictional superhero Shang-Chi in the Marvel Universe. While the fans of Marvel universe are excited about the selection since the formal announcement at San Diego Comic-con, people back at the actor’s home in China feel otherwise.
Not thrilled with the choice
The popular YouTube channel, Asian Boss, went on the streets of Beijing to do a quick survey about people’s opinions on the pick of the 30-year-old actor to play the titular role in the Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. In the survey video that went viral, while some are satisfied with the selection and called actor fit for the role, many fans rebuffed the actor for his looks. Dissing him, they said that there are many Chinese actors who are way much better-looking than Sim Liu; he is an ‘ugly choice’ for the superhero epic saga.
Further taking a dig, some people went onto said that he might appear attractive to Americans, who are excited about his movie, but he’s not up to the Chinese beauty standards. People scored him 6/10, and some even ranked him as low as 3.5-4.
Liu’s optimistic approach
The petty backlash, however, couldn’t deter the actor who is aiming to make most of the opportunity and prove the faith of the team in him right by living up to the herculean stature of the superhero character in American Marvel comics. In his response, he wrote in his Facebook post that a lot of teachers thought he’d never amount to anything, a lot of producers, directors, writers, and co-stars have questioned his acting ability, and he’s been rejected from countless conservatories, grants, programs, etc. He’s been second-guessed at every single possible step of his career. The reason why he’s still standing is that he’s singularly focused and has the utmost belief in his abilities and he refuses to let the opinions of others define him.
He further wrote, for him, it’s never been about trying to shut the voices out – it’s a fruitless effort (especially if people happen to be making Youtube videos about it). Rather, for him, it is about learning to let the voices exist and be okay with it. He’s still doing his thing, and he’s still over the moon happy to get this amazing opportunity.
It’s disappointing to see how people still judge others on the parameter of looks rather than talent and don’t spare a second thought before rebuking. Nevertheless, this hasn’t dampened the spirits of the actor and the comic fans who are eagerly waiting for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings which will release nationwide on February 12, 2021.