Two major Russian cinema chains reject minimum quota on domestic films

Two major Russian cinema chains, Cinema Park and Formula Kino, have rejected a proposed 20 percent minimum quota on Russian-made films.

In a joint statement, the two companies criticised the idea, dubbing it “irresponsible”.

“The release schedule of Russian films is unstable and their quality is unpredictable,” said the statement, quoted by Russian newspaper Vedomosti. “For instance, last week, Russian movies received more than one third of all screenings nationwide, but attendance hardly exceeded 5 – 7 percent, which proves that a sheer increase in the number of screenings won’t lead to higher attendance figures for Russian films.”

Last week, a group of Russia’s largest cinema chains signed an agreement to introduce a minimum quota on Russian-made films. Under the agreement, signed by Russian Minister of Culture Vladimir Medinsky and representatives of the cinema groups, at least 20 percent of screen time will be dedicated to Russian films.

The agreement will come into force from 1 January 2016. Major cinema chains to have signed the agreement include Cinema Star, Karo, Paradise, Mirage Cinema and Cinemax, among others.

Source: Hollywood Reporter