Monetochka Song Removed From Russian Screenings of New ‘Spider-Man’ Film

Aug. 20, 2026 A promotional image from “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.” Marvel.com A song by exiled Russian pop singer Monetochka has been removed from theatrical screenings of the new Hollywood blockbuster “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” in Russia, the news outlet Ostorozhno Novosti reported Thursday, following a similar move by distributors in Ukraine Like most major Western releases, the film is not receiving an official distribution in Russia after Sony Pictures suspended operations in the country amid the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. However, Russian theaters are showing unofficial copies of the film, where Monetochka’s song “Monopoly” was removed and replaced with an instrumental track during a scene set in New York’s Russian-speaking Brighton Beach neighborhood. Monetochka’s name was also deleted from the music credits during the film’s ending sequence, according to Ostorozhno Novosti. The removal of the exiled singer’s song from the Russian version of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” comes after distributors in Ukraine also cut the track from the film’s Ukrainian release following complaints from moviegoers. Monetochka, whom the Russian authorities designated a “foreign agent,” fled Russia shortly after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In 2025, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize after launching a charitable project to support Ukrainian refugees. Read more about: Music , Film Sign up for our free weekly newsletter Our weekly newsletter contains a hand-picked selection of news, features, analysis and more from The Moscow Times. You will receive it in your mailbox every Friday. Never miss the latest news from Russia. Preview Subscribers agree to the Privacy Policy We sent a confirmation to your email. Please confirm your subscription. A Message from The Moscow Times: Dear readers, We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent." These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia. We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help. Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact. By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us. Once Monthly Annual Continue Not ready to support today? Remind me later. × Remind me next month Remind me Thank you! Your reminder is set. We will send you one reminder email a month from now. For details on the personal data we collect and how it is used, please see our Privacy Policy. Read more Composer Philip Glass Accuses Theatre in Annexed Crimea of 'Piracy' The Sevastopol Opera and Ballet Theatre's website says an upcoming performance will feature music by the composer. 2 Min read Feature 'No One Needs Your English Single': Anti-War Russian Performers Grapple With Staying Relevant in Exile Exiled acts like Noize MC and Ploho aim to stay connected with their fanbases in Russia while also appealing to Western audiences. It's no easy task. 4 Min read EU Sanctions Russian Pro-War Pop Star Shaman Brussels accused the performer of taking steps that undermine or threaten Ukraine's territorial integrity and independence. 2 Min read Muchnik's Picks: Sia, Jessy Lanza and More Music in Moscow on the Weekend The sunny weather is expected to return on the weekend after a couple of rainy days, so prepare for lots of awesome live performances, including concerts...