Russian lawmakers accuse 'Shrek', 'Call of Duty', 'Death Note' and other Western media of "indoctrination"

Russian lawmakers claim 'Shrek', 'Call of Duty' and 'Death Note' harm children and propose new cultural regulations.

Russian lawmakers are calling for tighter controls on Western media after accusing films like Shrek, Monsters Inc, and The Grinch, along with video games such as Call of Duty, of having a “destructive impact” on children.

During a roundtable, members of Russia’s State Duma criticised a range of popular media, arguing that characters like Shrek no longer serve as ideal role models. “Characters began to appear who embodied negative traits but were elevated to the status of positive characters,” one presentation slide stated.

The discussion also targeted the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 mission “No Russian,” claiming it promoted negative portrayals of Russia and mocked past national tragedies, including the 2024 Crocus City Hall attack. A quote from the game describing Russian forces killing fleeing civilians was cited as evidence.

In addition, Death Note was listed among destructive influences in a presentation slide that displayed the cover of Death Note: Short Stories. Lawmakers extended criticism to video games, fashion, music, and literature they believe undermine national values.

Sergei Mironov of the ‘A Just Russia’ party described the situation as part of a “hybrid war,” stating, “If you want to defeat the enemy, raise their children.” His colleague, Yana Lantratova, acknowledged the legal complexity of regulating media but said work is underway to draft legislation promoting “traditional Russian spiritual values.”

As lawmakers push for new regulations, cultural icons like Shrek and Wolverine are unexpectedly drawn into wider debates on media influence.