Recently, the filming crew of The Red Shoes at Yunnan University found themselves at the center of public scrutiny after a tragic incident. A beloved campus stray cat, affectionately known as “Little Orange,” was run over and killed by a production vehicle on a pedestrian path — a heartbreaking loss for students and staff who had cared for her for years.
Witnesses said the crew had moved a barrier limiting vehicle access, allowing a car to enter the walkway where the accident occurred. While the incident was unintentional, it struck a deep emotional chord among those on campus who viewed Little Orange as part of their community.
The controversy deepened due to the crew’s delayed and poorly handled response. Students seeking clarification reportedly faced miscommunication, leading to online rumors of post deletions and suppression of discussion. Only after public anger grew did the production issue a late-night statement, announcing the driver’s resignation and plans to establish an animal welfare fund.
Though the statement aimed to ease tensions, many netizens felt the tragedy exposed a broader issue within film production — a tendency to prioritize speed and results over safety, respect, and empathy for the environment and living beings. As a result, hashtags calling to “boycott The Red Shoes” quickly trended online, with many demanding greater accountability from production teams.
Ultimately, this incident serves as a sobering reminder: when filming in campuses or public spaces, artistic pursuit must go hand in hand with care and respect. Every location, every worker, and every life deserves consideration.
The Red Shoes controversy has sparked a wider conversation about the social responsibility of the entertainment industry. Hopefully, it will lead future crews to approach their craft with more mindfulness and humanity — creating works that not only shine artistically but also warm the heart.
