In a peculiar turn of events, Netflix has come under fire on social media for its decision to bring back the iconic movie “Titanic” to its streaming platform. The controversy arises just days after the tragic incident involving the Titan tourist submersible, which claimed the lives of all five individuals on board. While much of the trolling appears to light-hearted, it sheds light on Netflix’s perceived insensitivity towards the recent tragedy that unfolded in the North Atlantic Ocean near the Titanic wreck on June 18.
The return of “Titanic” to Netflix serves as a strategic move by the streaming giant to captivate audiences with its enduring popularity. However, the timing of its re-release in the wake of the Titan submarine sinking has met with accusations of insensitivity. Given the film’s depiction of a sinking ship, some viewers might find it distressing to watch so soon after a real-life catastrophe.
Social media users have expressed their dismay and criticism towards Netflix. One user wrote, “Netflix just couldn’t stop themselves… Huh,” while another commented, “The timing is so wrong.” A third user remarked, “Netflix saw the opportunity and wasted no time.”
Although Netflix yet to respond to the trolling, it expected that the company aware of the negative feedback. Consequently, the streaming platform may consider removing “Titanic” from its website or delaying its re-release to address the concerns raised by the public.
In a press statement on Thursday, OceanGate Expeditions, the owner of the ill-fated submarine, confirmed that all five passengers on board presumed dead. This announcement followed the discovery of a debris field near the Titanic wreck by a remote-operating vehicle deployed by the US Coast Guard.
According to Rear Admiral John Mauger, the submarine’s loss attributed to a “catastrophic implosion.” During a press conference, he revealed that the Horizon Arctic’s remote operating vehicle (ROV) located the tail cone of the Titan submersible approximately 1600ft away from the bow of the Titanic wreck. Additionally, they uncovered further debris consistent with the collapse of the pressure chamber, indicating a catastrophic event.