Yash defends 'Toxic,' promises it offers 'voice for women'
What's the story
Actor Yash has defended his upcoming film Toxic against criticism of its portrayal of women. Speaking at a pre-release event in Hyderabad, he said the trailer doesn't properly reflect what the movie offers and assured that it has "a voice for women." The film's director, Geetu Mohandas, was absent from the event but was credited by Yash for her contribution to the project. The event was held at Malla Reddy University.
Director's contribution
Mohandas's contribution to 'Toxic'
Yash highlighted Mohandas's role in the film.
He said, "This film's director is also a woman."
"For us men, to achieve something in life, it is one level of effort. For women, it is double the effort."
"And the director will prove that every girl...can face every kind of situation and express their thoughts, express their vision, and succeed in this society."
"There is a voice for women in this film. All you girls, you will have a blast."
Director's absence
Mohandas busy with final post-production work
Several cast members, including Kiara Advani and Huma Qureshi, mentioned Mohandas's absence.
They said she was busy with the final post-production work ahead of the film's release on August 26.
Advani credited Mohandas for her character Nadia and said she gave her "wings to fly," while Qureshi called working on Toxic "being part of history."
Film description
Art should push boundaries, ask uncomfortable questions: Yash
At the event, Yash also described Toxic as "bold," "original," and "ambitious."
He added that it is a "great film which will speak to you on a personal level also."
"Psychologically, what I believe is, art should always push you to the darkest corners and make you ask those uncomfortable questions about human relationships and what we go through psychologically in life."
Backlash response
Backlash over 'Toxic's intimate scenes, alleged vulgarity
Yash recently addressed the backlash over Toxic's intimate scenes and alleged vulgarity.
He explained that certain scenes were shot aesthetically as part of the filmmaker's creative expression.
Speaking on Aap Ki Adalat, he explained, "You have to shoot in an aesthetic way aur baad me jo vicerally lagta hain na, that is the impact of cinema. Woh ek creator ka voice hota hain."
Film release
Everything to know about 'Toxic'
Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups is directed by Mohandas and stars Yash, Advani, Qureshi, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, and Rukmini Vasanth in lead roles.
The film is produced by KVN Venkat K Narayana and Yash under KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations.
It will be released in Kannada, English, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam on Wednesday.