(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-02-19 07:51

The Chinese media and Internet users have expressed their bafflement and disappointment over Hollywood director Steven Spielberg's recent withdrawal from the Beijing Olympics as its artistic director, but still admire the Oscar-winner's artistic achievements.

"Mr Spielberg knows nothing about China's endeavor to solve the Darfur issue ... He is unqualified to blame the Chinese government," a commentary published in Saturday's Guangming Daily, one of the country's leading newspapers, said.

From readers: Exit Spielberg, stage left Related readings:  Spielberg's move 'won't hurt' Games  Spielberg slashed by Chinese, but his movies still admired  Spielberg decision to quit 'regretful'

Spielberg announced his intention on Wednesday to quit his role at the upcoming Games, citing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, which he linked to the Chinese government.

The American movie director was appointed artistic consultant by the Beijing Organizing Committee for the 2008 Olympics in April 2006, and became involved with the opening and closing ceremonies of the event, together with Chinese film director Zhang Yimou and Ric Rirch, the Australian director behind ceremonies at the Sydney Games in 2000.

Many Chinese have said they are shocked by Spielberg's decision and found it "unacceptable".

"This person is living in his sci-fi world and cannot distinguish dream from reality," a commentary in Saturday's China Youth Daily said.

Websites such as Sina.com, Sohu.com and China.com carried thousands of comments on Spielberg's move.

Jiang Bojing from Hebei province said in an online forum: "Mr Spielberg shouldn't use the Olympics as an opportunity to make indiscreet political remarks about China."

Spielberg's movies, such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind, E.T. and Schindler's List, have proven popular with Chinese.

Xinghe, a writer, said Spielberg has inspired many Chinese youngsters who love science fiction.

"He has great talent. We regret his decision, but we still like his movies," he said.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao also said last week that Spielberg's decision was "regretful".