Russian box officewill more than double over the next five years, according to a report from analyst Dodona Research.

The study, Cinemagoing Russia, predictsthe 2006gross of US$412mwill top $850m by2011.

The driving force will be multiplex building, tied to the boom in retail developments in the country. Shopping mall owners are themselves moving intocinema ownership.

Russia 's largest cinema circuit is operated by Karo Film with 124 screens.

Hollywood has for some time seenthe countryas a key area for growth, alongside China and India. Studios have their own local offices.

This month Universal Pictures International Entertainment (UPIE) and Paramount Home Entertainment International (PHEI) announced a union for Russian distribution.

Around 50 to 60 Russian films are alsoreleased each year and can capture up to 30% of total box office.

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