Kodak has deleted pictures of Xianjiang Uyghurs from their Instagram after pressure from Chinese media & commentors

[u/taistolaisuus]

[u/WDR_937]

What a world we live in! While everyone here is berating Kodak, there are some things to consider why Kodak chose to do what it did.

It could technically stand against China and keep the post up. But it will risk losing business in China. OK, maybe not a problem. Perhaps there aren't many film photographers in China. Or maybe Chinese cinema doesn't use Kodak film stock that much.

But then there are the indirect implications that are not related to consumer-grade photographic film. China being what it is, could potentially go about not only banning just Kodak, but also banning any foreign movie made with Kodak film stock. This could mean that plenty of Hollywood movies that are shot on film would not be allowed into China. Meaning, Hollywood could be losing business in one of its biggest lucrative markets. By antagonizing China, Kodak is not only jeopardizing itself but also an entire industry here.

And I get it. "Kodak should have a backbone, they should have a spine, they should have balls, do what's right, etc, etc..." But Kodak had already been fading into obscurity since the late 90s. For a company that's barely hanging on, it will do anything it can to stay on.

Kodak is the analog world's GameStop.

[u/zachsilvey → u/WDR_937]

It's not just about selling film to Chinese consumers. Kodak can't make film without a Chinese supply chain.

[u/WDR_937 → u/zachsilvey]

Yeah, there's that too.

[u/WDR_937 → u/WDR_937]

Why am I being downvoted? I'm not supporting China or Kodak's decision, you dinguses! 🙄