Click HERE for this article in Russian

Commentary from Russia
 

■ The cover of the 'pirate' Russian DVD of "Brokeback Mountain"

MOSCOW, February 4, 2006 (GayRussia.ru)  –  Ang Lee’s “Brokeback Mountain” has not officially arrived in Russia.  The much talked about Academy Award-nominated film has had its cinema release postponed twice.

But “pirates” are cashing-in and the counterfeit DVD can be purchased in Moscow for as little as 100 roubles (about £2, €3 or $US3.50).

The pirated DVD is of good quality  – and had even been dubbed into the Russian language.

Russian distributor Paradis which owns the Russian rights to the film has changed the release date several times.  First the movie was supposed to be released early last month. The release date was then put back to this month – and now the new planned date is March 16.

The back cover of the DVD pack (pictured below) does not mention the “gay” aspect of the story-line.  It says that the film is a “graceful romantic story”, indicating that it is about close friendship – rather that a relationship of two men who love each other.

Asked whether they know what the is movie about, some sellers replied that they heard that it is about the story of cowboys friends who were in very close friendship relationship.  This is not surprising as Russian TV channels have tried to bypass the controversial topic of homosexuality.

The Russian film distribution company is probably hoping to cash on the success of the movie in Oscar ceremonies as it already got many various film awards and is one of the favourites in Academy nominations.

Now, film lovers in Russia have a choice: either wait for the film’s release or to breach the law and buy “fake” DVD copies, depriving the official distributor and the producers of money.

Even commercial interest did not persuade Russian film distribution companies to make “Brokeback Mountain” premier in Russia earlier than pirates. What is clear now is that owners of rights have lost massive profits from the movie that has amazed the world.

■ Translated and adapted from the original Russian article on GayRussia.ru

LINKS

There is an interesting Brokeback Mountain discussion forum run by Dave Cullen. Click the banner below to visit.  It is open to anyone to read, but you will need to register (free) to post.

Dan Wentzel's review for Brokeback Mountain (UK Gay News - January 6, 2006)