Jim Jarmusch Slams Mubi Over Sequoia Funding – Why Indie Cinema Is Worried
By Clever AI Classroom | September 1, 2025
Background: What Happened Between Mubi and Sequoia?
In mid-2025, Mubi, the London-based indie streaming platform, announced a $100 million funding round led by Sequoia Capital, which pushed its valuation beyond $1 billion. While this marked a milestone for the company, it also triggered backlash due to Sequoia’s controversial investments—including ties to Israeli defense-tech startups involved in the Gaza conflict.
Jim Jarmusch’s Comments
At the Venice Film Festival, veteran indie filmmaker Jim Jarmusch—known for works like *Paterson* and *Only Lovers Left Alive*—expressed disappointment in Mubi’s decision. He described the funding as “disappointing and disconcerting,” adding bluntly: All corporate money is dirty.
Jarmusch clarified that while his collaborations with Mubi in the past were positive, this funding deal raised questions about the ethical compromises indie cinema might face when chasing growth.
Why Filmmakers Are Angry
- Sequoia Capital reportedly invested in Kela, an Israeli intelligence-linked defense firm.
- Over 100 filmmakers have signed an open letter urging Mubi to cut ties with Sequoia.
- Critics argue this money is tied to “genocide profiteering” in Gaza.
This controversy has fueled a larger debate about the role of ethics in financing film and art projects.
Industry and Audience Reaction
The backlash isn’t limited to filmmakers:
- The Valdivia Film Festival canceled Mubi Fest 2025 in solidarity with Gaza.
- Activist groups like Film Workers for Palestine demanded stronger public statements from Mubi.
- Audiences on social media are calling for boycotts, while others defend Mubi as a platform for independent voices.
Mubi’s Official Response
Mubi has attempted to address the criticism with a series of measures:
- Launching an Ethical Funding and Investment Policy.
- Creating an Artists Advisory Council.
- Introducing an Artists at Risk Fund for creatives impacted by conflict or censorship.
However, critics note that CEO Efe Cakarel stopped short of using terms like “genocide,” leaving some unsatisfied with the company’s position.
FAQs
Why is Sequoia’s investment in Mubi controversial?
Because Sequoia has financial links to Israeli defense companies, which critics say profit from war and oppression in Gaza.
What did Jim Jarmusch say about Mubi?
He said he was “disappointed and disconcerted,” and emphasized that “all corporate money is dirty.”
Will this impact Mubi’s future?
It’s unclear—while some festivals and filmmakers have cut ties, Mubi has also doubled down on indie content and ethical commitments. The platform’s subscriber base may feel divided.