Despite past backlash for its racist content, the viral song “I Want to be Neenja” is being turned into a movie.
Key points:
- The song emerged online in a 2016 video showing former “The Apprentice” contestant and Miss Oregon Jennifer Murphy performing it.
- It drew significant controversy for its use of Asian stereotypes and a mock accent.
- Murphy issued a public apology at the time but has since backpedaled and repeatedly defended the song.
- In a press release for the film, Murphy claimed the song has garnered over 1 billion views across social media platforms.
The details:
- The original video shows Murphy singing in a fake Asian accent about becoming a “neenja” to fight someone named Chow. The lyrics are filled with racist lines, such as: “I want to chop, chop, chop Chow down/Take Chow down to Chinatown.”
- Murphy initially apologized after the song drew widespread condemnation. She later doubled down by posting more videos. In a 2020 interview on the “Bad Friend” podcast with Bobby Lee and Andrew Santino, Murphy claimed the song was satire and the Asian woman in the video was a friend.
- The “I Want to be Neenja” film stars Murphy as “Go Girl” and Lambo Le as “Chow.” Other credits include stuntman Andy Cheng and composer Georges Tomb.
- Murphy, who directed and produced the film, tried to raise $80,000 on Indiegogo for funding but was only able to raise $801. Murphy released a trailer for the film in March 2023.
- “This movie is a one-of-a-kind, old-school comedy, with drama, action and a full original music score,” Murphy stated. The film is now available for pre-order for $9.99 on her website.
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