Security Bureau weighs action as years-old Joshua Wong film tops Netflix charts following state-backed media report

The Security Bureau in Hong Kong claims it is investigating potential breaches of law after a 2017 Netflix documentary about pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong surged to the top of the streaming platform's charts. Released nearly a decade ago, the film "Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower" has been praised by some for its portrayal of Wong's activism, but critics argue it distorts facts to glorify his actions.

Wen Wei Po, a state-backed newspaper, reported on Monday that the documentary's trailer, which features what the paper describes as "incitement," can be viewed in Hong Kong without a subscription. The outlet claimed the film "valorizes Wong" and "features anti-China disruptors spreading inciting statements."

In response, a spokesperson for the Security Bureau said all videos broadcast in Hong Kong must comply with local laws, including the city's two security laws. They added that the Hong Kong government is taking "relevant follow-up actions" and urged citizens to think critically about acts that may endanger national security.

Wong, currently 29, was recently convicted under Hong Kong's national security law for conspiring to collude with foreign forces. The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to another charge of lobbying for sanctions against Hong Kong or Beijing.