Stray Kids’ upcoming theatrical release, titled The dominATE Experience, has ignited significant backlash among fans, prompting calls for a boycott. Announced by Live Nation, the film is set to screen in cinemas and select IMAX, SCREENX, 4DX, and ULTRA 4DX locations worldwide starting on February 6, 2026. However, the announcement has led to outrage over the exclusion of African countries from the screening list.
The announcement on Live Nation’s official social media account included a booking link for tickets but failed to mention any African nations. The only location in West Asia listed for the film is Israel. Fans quickly expressed their discontent on social media, feeling insulted by the exclusion of their regions and angered by the decision to show the film in Israel, particularly given the ongoing conflict with Palestine.
Many fans took to platforms like Twitter to voice their frustration. One user stated, “oh you are nasty disgusting and sick @LiveNation … hiding the replies where ppl want that fake country get removed from the list,” referring to the perceived censorship of critical comments regarding the inclusion of Israel. Another user remarked, “Israel in the list but not a single African country,” highlighting the perceived inequity in Live Nation’s selections.
The outcry intensified with fans calling for a boycott of both Stray Kids and Live Nation. They argued that the phrase “Stray Kids everywhere all around the world” does not encompass Palestine and condemned the decision to screen the film in a nation they associate with violence against Palestinians.
Despite the strong reactions, neither Stray Kids nor Live Nation has issued an official response to the growing criticism. The controversy underscores broader discussions surrounding representation and the impact of cultural products on international audiences. As the release date approaches, the tension between fan expectations and corporate decisions continues to mount.
Observers note that this situation reflects ongoing geopolitical sensitivities and the complex interplay between entertainment and global politics. As fans rally for their voices to be heard, the future of Stray Kids’ film release may hinge on how stakeholders respond to these calls for accountability.
