Batman, it’s a cancellation!
In the wake of Putin’s escalating invasion of Ukraine, Warner Bros. said Monday that it would cancel all theater releases in Russia, including “The Batman.” Russia increased its onslaught on Tuesday, bombarding Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, and sending a 40-mile-long convoy of tanks and other weaponry to Kyiv.
“WarnerMedia is postponing the distribution of its feature picture ‘The Batman’ in Russia due to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine,” the company announced in a statement, according to the Hollywood Reporter. “We’ll keep an eye on the issue as it develops.” We hope that this tragedy will be resolved quickly and peacefully.”
The superhero film starring Robert Pattinson and Zoe Kravitz, directed by Matt Reeves, was set to premiere in Russia on March 31.
Cast members Andy Serkis, Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Paul Dano, and Jeffrey Wright arrive at the London launch of “The Batman” in London, Feb. 23, 2022.
Other Hollywood studios have halted their initiatives in Russia due to the ongoing turmoil. After delaying significant releases in the country, including the latest Pixar feature “Turning Red,” Disney started the practice last month.
“Future business decisions will be dependent on the evolving situation.” In the meantime, given the magnitude of the looming refugee catastrophe,” the Mouse House said in a statement. “We’re working with our NGO partners to give refugees with immediate aid and other humanitarian support.”
On February 28, Sony Pictures announced that it would halt theater releases of their films in Russia, including the upcoming vampire horror “Morbius.”
With Sony’s “Spider-Man,” Russia is one of the world’s top box office markets.
“The Batman” was slated to be released in Russia on Tuesday, March 1.