The war on Cheburashka: How Russia’s box office smash ignited a conservative revolt The Russian film “Cheburashka 2” has achieved significant box office success, earning over five billion rubles. However, the film has drawn sharp criticism from prominent conservative figures like Alexander Dugin and several State Duma deputies, who argue that the character and its story are detrimental to Russian culture and national identity. These critics accuse the film’s production of being a “cash grab” and “sabotage against the revival of Russia’s state-civilization,” while the film’s screenwriter defends it as a simple family movie promoting kindness and connection.

• “Cheburashka 2” has grossed over five billion rubles at the Russian box office, exceeding its predecessor’s initial run.
• Philosopher Alexander Dugin has led a conservative backlash, calling Cheburashka a symbol of “feeblemindedness” and “brainrot” alien to Russian culture.
• State Duma deputies have joined the criticism, labeling the film a “cash grab” and arguing that its production is controlled by those unable to leave Russia.
• Critics like Dugin and Deputy Dmitry Pevtsov suggest the film corrupts children and lacks positive role models, relying on a fictional animal for moral guidance.
• Screenwriter Vyacheslav Zub defends the film, stating the intention was to create a simple family movie promoting kindness and connection, not to convey hidden meanings.
• Some Duma deputies have proposed repealing Article 9 of Russia’s culture law, which could allow for greater state intervention and censorship in the film industry.