Cancel Culture in Entertainment — A Muslim Perspective
As a Muslim who often sees my faith or followers of my faith routinely vilified or victimized, this article covers some alternative streaming platforms that offer binge-worthy content without the feeling of compromising any ethical stances.
Last year, Netflix came under fire for its decision to host Cuties, a TV-show series criticized widely for normalizing child sexualization in the name of “burgeoning femininity.” Netflix was even indicted by a grand jury for it. While many made the #CancelNetflix trend and canceled their subscriptions in response, Netflix is still the main source of streaming content for millions, with most keeping their subscriptions despite their aversion to the show. The same happened when it was revealed Disney’s live-action Mulan was filmed near Uighur concentration camps in the autonomous region of Xinxiang, and that lead actress for Mulan, Liu Yifei, supported the police during Hong Kong’s protests. Despite this, both Netflix and Disney have remained a staple to the average person’s source of entertainment. Channels like FOX have also bought out shows with stereotypical Muslims in them (hello 911 Lonestar).
But what can cancel trends do? At their least, they cause internet flurries of notoriety. At their best, they can pressure large companies to apologize or make future adjustments. On average, it gives alternative streaming services, like the ones listed below with a Muslim lens, a chance to prove themselves. (If you’re not Muslim, this should still excite you! Muslims have been watching shows with cultures, mannerisms, and zero Muslim characters in them for decades and enjoyed them. You can do the same about cultures, not of your own, too!)
Alchemiya
Dubbed the “Muslim Netflix,” Alchemiya offers a wide range of Muslim-centered movies, TV shows, and documentaries from across the world. Just like other streaming services, it offers a free trial and monthly or yearly subscriptions — but without the tasteless or stereotypical plots found everywhere else.
Ali Huda
With numerous cartoons and shows, Ali Huda is among the first of its kind, offering children’s entertainment that also educates about Muslims and Islam in a holistic way. It also has a free trial and exclusive content for its subscribers.
Ilm Film
With a focus on History, Ilm Film produces historical documentaries free to view on YouTube. Their library of information includes mini-series for specific periods as well as general history topics.
Durioo Plus
Also supplying children’s entertainment with an ethical lens, Duriooplus is a Muslim-owned, Muslim representing streaming service offering a one-week free trial. It was recently launched and is backed by crowd-funding.
Al Majarra Studios
Still in its pre-launch phase, Al Majarra Studios is an independent animation studio for adolescent and adult audiences. It currently advertises three movies and one TV show featuring a comedic anti-hero. It also offers a consultation service for creatives who want assistance in adding Muslim characters into their content.
There you have it. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, comment below. If you found this helpful or informative in any way, follow me for more articles!
Disclaimer: I am not being paid to promote any of these mentioned companies, places, or sites.
