The controversy surrounding Yash-starrer ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’ has taken a new turn after former BJP leader K Annamalai criticised the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over the depiction of graphic violence and alleged misogyny in recent films. Although Annamalai did not specifically name ‘Toxic’, his remarks have reportedly prompted discussions within the certification body about whether its existing approach to extreme violence requires greater scrutiny. According to a recent report, the discussion within the board is not focused solely on Geetu Mohandas’ directorial but on the broader question of how graphic violence should be evaluated when films are submitted for certification.
CBFC reportedly to examine where graphic violence becomes excessive
A CBFC source told Mid-Day that the central issue being discussed is not whether an ‘A’ certificate permits violent imagery, but where the depiction could be considered excessive. The report stated the discussion is not about whether an ‘A’ certificate allows violence, but about determining when such violence crosses the line into excess.According to the report, ‘Toxic’ contains sequences involving firearms, bloodshed and severing of body parts. The reported discussion within the board is therefore centred on whether such imagery serves a narrative purpose or is primarily being used for shock value. The report added that the board would need to consider whether extreme imagery is justified within a film’s context or included predominantly for impact.
K Annamalai’s criticism sparks discussion within CBFC
According to IANS, Annamalai recently raised concerns over the CBFC allowing films featuring what he described as excessive violence and misogynistic content to receive certification. While he did not directly refer to ‘Toxic’, his comments came amid the discussion surrounding the film’s violent sequences. A report by Mid-Day claim that the remarks have led to internal discussions within the CBFC, which is headed by Prasoon Joshi. The reported deliberations are understood to concern the parameters used to assess extreme violence rather than a reconsideration of Toxic’s existing certificate.
‘Marco’ controversy also returns to the discussion
The reported debate has also brought Unni Mukundan’s 2024 Malayalam action thriller ‘Marco’ back into focus. The film had faced criticism over its depiction of extreme violence after receiving certification from the CBFC. The report stated that the controversy surrounding ‘Marco’ had highlighted the need for clearer and more defined guidelines to assess extreme violence in films.The reference to ‘Marco’ indicates that the concerns being discussed may extend beyond one particular film and could form part of a larger conversation about how certification authorities evaluate increasingly graphic depictions of violence in Indian cinema.
What certificate did ‘Toxic’ receive?
Directed by Geetu Mohandas, ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’ was granted an ‘A’ certificate by the CBFC, restricting theatrical viewing to adult audiences. The certification has become part of the wider conversation around the film following criticism of its violent imagery and treatment of women. However, the reported internal discussions at the CBFC should not be interpreted as confirmation that the board has revoked, altered or formally revised Toxic’s certification.CBFC has reportedly been approached for a response on the matter but remained unavailable for comment.
More about ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’
‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’ is directed by Geetu Mohandas and stars Yash in the lead role. The film features an ensemble cast including Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Rukmini Vasanth, Huma Qureshi and Tara Sutaria. The gangster drama combines crime, family conflict and action while exploring the complicated relationships surrounding Yash’s character. The film’s mature treatment and graphic action sequences have become an important part of the discussion surrounding its theatrical release.
‘Toxic’ continues its theatrical run amid controversy
Despite the debate over its violent content, ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’ continues its theatrical journey with Yash leading a large-scale action drama directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film has minted a net domestic collection of Rs. 165.95 crore and India gross of Rs. 198.10 crore. Internationally, the film’s worldwide gross has soared to Rs. 221.35 crore, in just three days of its theatrical run as reported by Sacnilk.