Renowned director Christopher Nolan’s latest film, The Odyssey, is set to hit theaters in China on the 14th. At the press conference for the Beijing premiere, Chinese host Chen Xuan conducted her interview in a half-squatting posture, unable to stand up straight and with her backside facing the camera. This odd posture drew heavy criticism from nationalists, accusing her of “worshipping foreigners, bowing and scraping, turning weak-kneed and unable to stand tall in front of foreigners,” sparking controversy.
Chen Xuan later explained that she crouched in order not to block the cameras. Some industry insiders present corroborated her explanation, saying that the press event was held in an atrium with a height of 20 meters, featuring a massive waterfall-like screen displaying a giant The Odyssey poster. In order for cameras to capture both the film team and the poster in the same shot, they had to film from below the stage. In this situation, if the host didn’t crouch, she would indeed block the camera. Additionally, Chen Xuan was also criticized for acting like a fan rather than a professional host when she repeatedly confessed to Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron during the Q&A, saying: “You are my goddess. Seeing you, I’m already tongue-tied. I know this is a bit unprofessional, but you’re so beautiful I can’t even look you in the eyes.”
Source: Apple Daily News