Toxic controversy: CBFC reassesses approach to graphic violence after Annamalai’s criticism

Yash in the film. Pics/Youtube

After former BJP leader K Annamalai criticised the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for clearing a recent release despite its graphic violence and misogyny, it has led to discussions within the body.

While he did not name Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups, Annamalai called for stricter scrutiny of violence on screen. Sources have told us that as a result, the Prasoon Joshi-led body is reconsidering how such sequences should be assessed going forward.

The CBFC previously faced flak for clearing ‘Marco' despite its graphic violence

Director Geetu Mohandas's Toxic, granted an ‘A' certificate by the CBFC, has faced backlash for its gory sequences and treatment of women. According to a CBFC insider, the ongoing discussion is less about the film and more about the broader parameters.

"The question being discussed is not whether an ‘A' certificate permits violence. The question is at what point does it become excessive. Toxic has scenes involving firearms, bloodshed, and severing of body parts. The board has to examine whether such imagery is justified or is being used purely for impact," said a source.

The episode has brought Unni Mukundan's Marco (2024) back in conversation. At the time, the CBFC had faced flak for granting certification to the film, given its extreme violence. "The Marco episode had shown the need for a clearly defined approach to extreme violence," added the source. mid-day reached out to CBFC, which remained unavailable for comment.