Summarize

Simplifying... Inshort

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has removed the alcohol warning from the film 'Trap', starring Josh Hartnett, sparking mixed reactions.
This decision follows online backlash from netizens who were unhappy with the persistent alcohol warnings in films like 'Deadpool & Wolverine'.
Despite this, the CBFC maintains that such disclaimers are necessary to prevent the glorification of alcohol in films, although their application has been inconsistent.

Was a long read? Making it simpler...

Next Article

CBFC removes alcohol warning from films

Result of netizens' fury? CBFC drops alcohol warning in 'Trap' 

By Shreya Mukherjee

Aug 06, 2024

02:16 pm

What's the story

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), led by Prasoon Joshi, has removed the alcohol warning from M Night Shyamalan's latest film, Trap, released on August 2. This decision follows a wave of criticism on social media over the frequent display of alcohol warnings in films that depict liquor consumption. The controversy escalated in recent weeks after the release of Hollywood blockbusters Deadpool & Wolverine and Twisters, both featuring the disputed disclaimer.

Public response

CBFC's decision on 'Trap' sparks mixed reactions

The CBFC's decision to omit the alcohol warning from Trap, starring Josh Hartnett, has elicited mixed reactions. The film includes several scenes set in a concert involving alcohol consumption. An insider source told Mid-Day, "The CBFC internally decided that...didn't need an alcohol warning signatory." Some view this as a victory for artistic freedom, while others question the board's inconsistent approach to such disclaimers.

Online outcry

Netizens expressed discontent over alcohol warnings

Following the release of Deadpool & Wolverine, netizens voiced their displeasure over the alcohol warnings. One user on X stated, "Deadpool & Wolverine is censored [a certain cuss word] with a long-running warning of 'Alcohol is injurious to health' occupying 5 to 10% IMAX screen in 3D. Are Indian adults not equipped to handle adult/R-rated content from the West?" This online backlash has contributed significantly to the ongoing debate.

Board's position

CBFC's stance on alcohol disclaimers remains unchanged

Despite the criticism and inconsistency, members of the CBFC are believed to support alcohol disclaimers. An insider commented, "Such measures are necessary to curb the glorification of alcohol consumption in films. We could decide to place them differently, but it's important to place them." Since 2012, anti-smoking messages have been mandatory in all films that depict nicotine consumption. However, the application of anti-liquor disclaimer has been inconsistent and has seen an increase in recent months.