Advertisement

Russian Burger King: 'It' clown is a promo for Ronald McDonald

By Daniel Uria
The child-eating clown monster Pennywise is shown in a scene from the horror film "It." File image courtesy Warner Bros.
The child-eating clown monster Pennywise is shown in a scene from the horror film "It." File image courtesy Warner Bros.

Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter

Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Burger King Russia has demanded the new It film be banned because its main character resembles rival mascot Ronald McDonald, violating ad laws.

The Russian division of the fast food chain filed a complaint with the Federal Anti-Monopoly Service claiming the character Pennywise resembles McDonald's clown.

Advertisement

Burger King said Pennywise's similar coloring and use of balloons makes him too similar to Ronald McDonald and violate's Russia's advertising laws.

A spokeswoman for FAS confirmed to the Hollywood Reporter that the complaint has been received and is being evaluated.

"We can't be concerned with the content of the film because the writer and director have their own creative understanding of any character," she said.

It has grossed $14 million in Russia since it opened in the country on Sept. 7.

Latest Headlines