Disney Takes Firm Stand, Suspends Film Releases In Russia

Walt Disney postpones film screenings in Russia (photo: Disney)

JAKARTA - The Walt Disney Company announced that it will temporarily suspend all film releases in Russian theaters, including Turning Red, which was previously scheduled to premiere in the country on March 10.

"In light of the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the tragic humanitarian crisis, we are halting theatrical releases in Russia, including Pixar's upcoming 'Turning Red'," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

The source said the company will make further business decisions based on the evolving situation. Meanwhile, sources said Walt Disney was also working with NGO partners to provide urgent aid and other humanitarian assistance to the refugees.

Disney was the first major film distributor to temporarily suspend its theatrical releases in Russia. While Warner Bros, via "The Batman" still seems to be released in Russia for now.

The animated film "Turning Red" will premiere on Disney Plus in the United States on March 11 and a theatrical release in countries where streaming services are not available.

Pausing theatrical releases is a bold move and a financial risk, but Russia tends not to be a significant market in terms of the global box office. However, the country made an estimated $45 million for "Spider-Man: No Way Home".

Quoted from ANTARA, Russia began its invasion of Ukraine on February 21 and launched a full-scale invasion three days later. In response, the US and many of its allies have imposed economic sanctions on the country.

The entertainment industry has also condemned Russia for the invasion, with Netflix refusing to bring Russian propaganda channels and British media regulator Ofcom into questioning news programs on the Russian-backed channel RT.

In addition to "Turning Red," other upcoming Disney releases include "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" on May 5 and "Lightyear" on June 16.