'Dhurandhar' review backlash: Film Critics Guild condemns attacks on critics
What's the story
The Film Critics Guild (FCG) has denounced the online abuse and threats aimed at reviewers who offered mixed or negative opinions on Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar. In a statement, FCG said, "What began as disagreement has rapidly devolved into coordinated abuse, personal attacks on individual critics, and organized attempts to discredit their professional integrity." The statement added that several members faced intimidation, including direct threats and vicious online campaigns aimed at silencing their perspectives.
Statement details
'Claims that professional film critics have a bias...'
The FCG statement further read, "More concerningly, there have been attempts to tamper with existing reviews, influence editorial positions, and persuade publications to alter or dilute their stance." "Such interference strikes at the core of independent film criticism and undermines the editorial autonomy that a functioning cultural ecosystem relies upon." "Claims that professional film critics have a bias or a political ax to grind are unsubstantiated and malicious," it added.
Twitter Post
See their statement here
Official statement from the Film Critics Guild on the targeted attacks and harassment faced by film critics and journalists this week. The Guild strongly condemns this behaviour and stands in solidarity with our colleagues. pic.twitter.com/R3ltKUkfFo
— Film Critics Guild (@theFCGofficial) December 11, 2025
Call to action
FCG urged for restraint and respect
The FCG also expressed concern about the safety and well-being of critics. The statement said, "No professional should be subjected to personal vilification simply for doing their job." "We urge the public, the industry, and all stakeholders to recognize that liking or disliking a film is your right but expecting critics to fall in line is not." "This moment demands collective reflection... We call for restraint, respect, and a commitment to the principles that allow art, debate, and criticism to coexist."
Review controversy
'Dhurandhar' review controversy: Anupama Chopra faced social media backlash
The FCG statement comes after veteran film critic Anupama Chopra faced severe criticism on social media for her negative review of Dhurandhar. The movie, which stars Ranveer Singh, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, and Rakesh Bedi, was released on December 5. It has received mixed reviews from critics but continues to be praised by celebrities and politicians.