As per the latest Hollywood news, Warner Bros. has halted the release of its upcoming film ‘The Batman’ in Russia right before it was about to open in theatres.
It’s learnt that Hollywood has halted distribution plans in the country following Vladimir Putin’s decision of invasion of Ukraine.
In lieu of the above, Sony Pictures, the Walt Disney Co. and Warner Bros., have stated that they have paused the release of their movies in Russia.
You might be aware that each of the above studios has their own releases in the near future. ‘The Batman’ happens to be one of the most anticipated films was to be launched on Friday in North America along with some other countries like Russia.
A spokesperson from Warner Bros. told media that they have paused the release of their film ‘The Batman’ in Russia,” “in light of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. “We will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves. We hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to this tragedy.” the spokesperson added.
After Warner Bros, another renowned studio named Walt Disney Co followed the same path and disclosed that they have ceased plans of opening their film ‘Turning Red’ in Russia. Earkier, the film was scheduled to open in Russia on March 10.
In light of such a crisis, the film is expected to go straightaway to OTT platform in the US.
“Given the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the tragic humanitarian crisis, we are pausing the release of theatrical films in Russia, including the upcoming ‘Turning Red’ from Pixar,” This is what a Disney spokesperson communicated to the media.
“We will make future business decisions based on the evolving situation. In the meantime, given the scale of the emerging refugee crisis, we are working with our NGO partners to provide urgent aid and other humanitarian assistance to refugees.” he added.
Hollywood Releases Like ‘The Bateman’ & ‘Turning Red’ Ceased In Russia Amid Ukraine War
The current situation in Ukraine has forced Hollywood to scramble plans in Russia on Monday. It’s mainly happened after the global pressure mounted to dismantle business ties with Russia over the current war with Ukraine.
Many countries including the US are pressurizing Russia in one way or the other. They have sought loads of sanctions that will directly impact the economy of Russia. Due to all these western economic sanctions, Russian currency has already seen a huge downfall since the war started.
It was on Saturday when Ukrainian Film Academy called actually called for an international boycott of the Russian film industry.
The Motion Picture Association stated on Monday, “On behalf of our member companies, who lead the film, TV and streaming industry, we express our strongest support for Ukraine’s vibrant creative community who, like all people, deserve to live and work peacefully,” it said in a statement.
“On behalf of our member companies, who lead the film, TV and streaming industry, we express our strongest support for Ukraine’s vibrant creative community who, like all people, deserve to live and work peacefully,” the MPA said in a statement.
Although Russia is not a leading market in terms of Hollywood films, the country mainly ranks among some top countries globally at the box office. Sony Pictures’ latest release ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home,’ which earned $1.85 billion worldwide grossed up to $46.7 million in Russia.
In the same ways, another film titled ‘Uncharted’ managed to surpass $20 million in Russia in a span of just two weeks.
“Given the ongoing military action in Ukraine and the resulting uncertainty and humanitarian crisis unfolding in that region, we will be pausing our planned theatrical releases in Russia, including the upcoming release of ‘Morbius,'” This is what Sony stated in a statement released.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been impacted and hope this crisis will be resolved quickly.” They further added.
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