Although Top Gun: Maverick has been a success with both critics and fans, it turns out that not everyone has been happy with the new film. In fact, it turns out that a Chinese investor pulled out of the production for the highly-anticipated Top Gun sequel. While it seemed like a major win in the making, Tencent Holdings just could not agree with the film’s pro-US message. Well, what else can you expect from a Top Gun sequel?
This information was revealed via The Wallstreet Journal. Apparently Tencent Holdings feared the potential reactions from Communist Party officials in Beijing if they were discovered to be part of the film. Especially given that the film was all about celebrating the American military. So while they were initially attached to co-produce the film, Tencent Holdings now has no association whatsoever with Top Gun: Maverick. In fact, the film hasn’t even played in China as of this writing.
Interestingly, China has become a difficult country to work with regarding Hollywood releases. For example, Spider-Man: No Way Home wasn’t released in China at all. While Hollywood studios were once very dependent on the additional box office support that China had to offer, things have changed quite a bit in recent years. As such, tentpole releases like the aforementioned No Way Home and Top Gun: Maverick are kept from being released theatrically in the country.
Luckily, however, the loss of Chinese audiences hasn’t been too detrimental for Spider-Man: No Way Home or Top Gun: Maverick. While No Way Home went on to become the biggest blockbuster of 2021, Top Gun: Maverick has also grossed a surprising amount of money during its opening so far. With the film likely continuing to add to this gross thanks to positive word of mouth, studios won’t have to worry about the loss of China.
Of course, one must wonder what will happen in the future for other potential releases between the US and China. But only time will tell on that front. As for now, audiences outside China can finally experience the Top Gun sequel starring Tom Cruise that’s been years in the making. Top Gun: Maverick is currently playing in theaters.