In Russia, the possibility of closing online cinemas for showing films that do not correspond to traditional values is being discussed. The State Duma is preparing amendments to a bill that would not allow such films to be issued distribution certificates.
If the bill is passed, online cinemas may face closure for films that discredit traditional values. Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee Andrei Svintsov said that the bill has already passed the first reading, and deputies are working on its finalization. It is important to determine a transition period during which cinemas will be able to check their collections for "inappropriate" content and send it to the Ministry of Culture to obtain distribution certificates. During this period, there will be no fines for the absence of certificates.
However, after the transition period, if films with inappropriate content are found, distributors may face fines or closure. New films will be required to obtain distribution certificates, which will allow the Ministry of Culture to demand that directors cut out unwanted scenes.
The Communist Party and the "New People" party express doubts about the transparency of the criteria by which films will be evaluated. Deputy Alexei Kurinny noted that this could lead to censorship, and suggested that the fate of films should be decided by a creative council, not officials. Deputy Anton Tkachev added that even well-known Soviet comedies could fall under restrictions.
Some factions, such as SRZP and LDPR, support the bill, believing that it is necessary to protect against unwanted content. However, the film industry fears that the lack of clear criteria could lead to arbitrary decisions and selective justice.
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