Controversial laws seek to limit foreign films

Russia’s parliament is debating new laws to restrict the impact of foreign films on the domestic market, including a possible ban all on foreign film production on Russian territory. Lawmakers are seeking to reverse the current situation of 80-85% of box office sales coming from foreign films. They are looking at a number of options including a minimum quota for Russian films in cinemas or a tax on foreign film tickets.
The rapid changes within the Russian film industry have received widespread criticism from filmmakers, who argue that the continuing uncertainty is damaging the industry.