New Russian law restricts films seen as against traditional values ^{CEFR B1}

The law that came into effect on 1 March 2026 bars the distribution and screening of films seen as discrediting "traditional Russian spiritual and moral values." It gives the Ministry of Culture the power to refuse distribution licences for films it finds contrary to those values or that "promote" their rejection. The rules apply to cinemas, online streaming services and social media.

Some Russian media report the law covers both foreign and domestic films. Officials say they will watch works that may be interpreted as promoting "non-traditional relationships" or rejecting family values. Directors named as at risk include David Fincher, Quentin Tarantino and Martin Scorsese.

Foreign streaming services have not worked in Russia since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Domestic streaming remains popular and illegal streaming of pirated material is rising. World Pictures confirmed that the 2005 film "Nuremberg" will not be released in Russia because the Ministry did not provide a distribution licence.