To avoid CBFC cuts, 'Anora' may release on OTT: Report
Sean Baker's critically acclaimed dark comedy, Anora, has reportedly pulled its planned theatrical release in India. The film, starring Mikey Madison and Mark Eidelstein, was originally slated to hit Indian screens on Friday. However, Universal Pictures India has opted to move the release to an OTT platform later this month, reported Mid-day. The decision was taken owing to anticipated censorship issues with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
'Anora' was not submitted for CBFC certification
Sources revealed to Mid-day that Universal Pictures India chose not to submit Anora for CBFC certification, fearing extensive cuts due to its bold content. "The decision to pull Anora from theatrical release was made proactively, anticipating that the film's bold content could face resistance from the CBFC," an insider from the studio told the portal.
'Did not want to dilute the story in any way'
The insider further added, "There is a lot of nudity in the film, and cuts or edits would have compromised how the director wanted to tackle certain societal themes. We did not want to dilute the story in any way." The team was confident that a VOD release would allow them to honor Baker's creative vision. To recall, the acclaimed movie won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
CBFC expressed disappointment over 'Anora's non-submission
Meanwhile, sources within the CBFC confirmed Anora wasn't submitted for certification. A member from the CBFC said, "We were not approached with a certification request. The CBFC aims to work closely with filmmakers to achieve a balance between creative expression and regulatory guidelines." "It's unfortunate if a release was delayed due to assumptions about our process," they added.
'Anora's digital release details for India
Anora, which was released in US theaters last month, will be released worldwide on Hulu by the end of November. In India, Lionsgate is likely to host the film. A source said it will be available as a pay-per-view offering but if it streams on JioCinema owing to the Hulu-Hotstar partnership, the film's release could be further delayed.
