22 October,2026 01:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Clayface. Pic via YouTube
The upcoming body horror-psychological thriller Clayface has received an A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ahead of its theatrical release in India. The certification, passed on October 19, comes with several modifications, including cuts to nudity and graphic violence, changes to subtitles and the addition of anti-alcohol and anti-drug messaging.
According to the certification details, visuals of nudity were removed and replaced with suitable shots at two points in the film. The scenes were identified at the timestamps 06:38 to 06:43 and 08:43 to 09:04. The changes reportedly affect frontal nudity involving actor Joana Ribeiro, who plays Mia Torrez. The sequences, measuring 19 seconds and five seconds respectively, were ordered to be clipped.
The CBFC also directed the makers to suitably modify two scenes depicting a face being smashed. The changes apply to sequences lasting one second and six seconds. Additionally, the board demanded the removal of the word "motherf''r" from the subtitles. Anti-alcohol and anti-drug or narcotic messages were also required to be added to relevant scenes wherever applicable.
The certification details list the film's runtime as approximately 108.31 minutes. The reported duration translates to around one hour and 48 minutes, rather than one hour and 28 minutes.
The latest decision comes after similar censoring was reported for the supernatural horror film Obsession, which also received an A certificate in India. The film was asked to remove scenes featuring extreme violence and graphic sexual activity.
Directed by James Watkins, Clayface follows Matt Hagen, a movie star played by Tom Rhys Harries, whose life takes a horrifying turn after a local mob boss mauls him.
Desperate to restore his disfigured face, Hagen undergoes an experimental procedure. However, the treatment triggers disturbing physical and psychological changes, transforming his face into a clay-like substance and setting him on a frightening path.
Joana Ribeiro plays Mia Torrez in the film, which explores body horror through the protagonist's transformation and the consequences of his attempt to reclaim his former appearance.
With its disturbing premise and graphic imagery, Clayface brings a darker take on the character to the screen. Its A certification and mandated edits set the tone for what Indian audiences can expect when the film arrives in theatres. Clayface to release in theatres on October 23, 2026.
