The Russian Association of Theater Owners expects to phase out 'pre-show' screenings of unlicensed foreign films within the next few months.
Key facts
- •Alexey Voronkov stated that 'pre-show services' for unlicensed films will likely end within two to three months.
- •Government regulations currently allow for unlicensed screenings until March 1, 2028.
- •No official release dates exist in Russia for 'Avengers: Doomsday' or 'Dune: Part Three'.
- •Any potential release of the specified Hollywood films in Russia is not expected before April 1, 2027.
- •The Investigative Committee is investigating threats made against the creators of the film 'The Last Warrior: Kolobok'.
Alexey Voronkov, chairman of the Russian Association of Theater Owners, announced that Russian cinemas will stop showing unlicensed foreign films under the guise of “pre-show services” by the end of the year. While government regulations currently permit such screenings until March 1, 2028, the industry expects to end the practice within two to three months.
Status of Major Hollywood Releases
Voronkov addressed speculation regarding the release of the American films 'Avengers: Doomsday' and 'Dune: Part Three' in Russia. He stated that neither film is currently scheduled for release, noting that no distributor has officially announced them. Even if negotiations with Hollywood studios succeed, he indicated these films would not be released in Russia before April 1, 2027.
Previous Distribution Conflicts
In July, distributors requested that theaters delay screenings of 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' to prioritize the Russian film 'The Last Warrior: Kolobok'. Following the postponement, the filmmakers behind 'Kolobok' received threats, prompting Russia’s Investigative Committee to open a criminal investigation.
Timeline
- JulyDistributors requested that theaters postpone 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' to prioritize a Russian film.
- March 1, 2028The date until which government regulations currently allow unlicensed foreign film screenings.
- April 1, 2027The earliest date that 'Avengers' and 'Dune' sequels could potentially be released in Russia.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Meduza (English).
