Shortly after its release, Netflix original film Bird Box became the subject of controversy for its use of footage from a real-life train crash. Netflix has now announced that it will replace the footage in the film and offered an apology to the people affected.
"Netflix and the filmmakers of Bird Box have decided to replace the clip. We’re sorry for any pain caused to the Lac-Mégantic community," the streaming service said in a statement to The Wrap.
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The tragic train crash occurred in the summer of 2013 after a runaway train carrying 7.7 million liters of petroleum hurtled into the town of Lac-Mégantic before derailing and bursting into flames. The disaster caused an inferno that destroyed numerous public buildings and homes and claimed 47 lives.
Footage of the crash was used in Bird Box as part of a fictional news coverage of the film's events. After the source of the footage came to light, the public and Canadian officials urged the streaming giant to remove it. Initially, Netflix refused to make changes to the film. No reason has been provided for their recent change of heart.
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The same clip appeared in the Netflix series Travelers but was removed from the episode shortly after it was spotted by audiences. Netflix is coordinating with Julie Morin, the mayor of Lac-Mégantic, who has described the media company's response as "sensitive to our citizens' recovery" and went on to say, "I’m satisfied with this exchange."
Streaming on Netflix, Bird Box stars Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, Jacki Weaver, Rosa Salazar, Danielle Macdonald, Lil Rel Howery, Tom Hollander, BD Wong, Sarah Paulson, Colson Baker and John Malkovich.