Mumbai: Kannada star Yash has addressed the criticism surrounding the intimate scenes in his upcoming film ‘Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups’, saying the film was made with a specific artistic intent and is aimed at Gen Z audiences.
The actor also maintained that there is a clear distinction between portraying intimacy aesthetically and vulgarity.
The film’s teaser drew criticism over its portrayal of women, while the song ‘Tabaahi’, featuring Yash and Kiara Advani, also sparked controversy over its intimate scenes.
During his appearance on Aap Ki Adalat, Yash was asked about the criticism often directed at Gen Z over their portrayal of sex and violence in films.
Pointing out that older generations often view the choices of younger generations with scepticism, Yash responded to the backlash over the steamy scenes in Toxic, saying, “Vulgarity is wrong. Maine toh kiss bhi nahi kiya hai, agar aapne dekha hoga toh (Vulgarity is wrong. I haven’t even kissed, as you may have noticed). There is a certain line, and we understand that. You have to shoot things aesthetically, and what may seem visually appealing later is the impact of cinema. That is a creator’s voice.”
Yash further explained that Toxic was created with a particular vision, with emotions playing a crucial role in its narrative.
He added that audiences would better understand the film’s intent and perspective after watching it.
He said, “Toxic is for Gen-Zs. It’s for the conversations you guys are having, what problems you guys have with the seniors. Us generation ke baare mein aap log jo questions puchte ho usme kya galti hain, kyun aisa fixed rules hai, kyun aisa hi karna chahiye. Whatever your thoughts are, it’s the primary conversation of the film. (It is about the questions you ask about that generation – what is wrong with them, why there are fixed rules, why things have to be done a certain way).”
Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the gangster drama Toxic features Yash in a double role, alongside Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, Nayanthara and Rukmini Vasanth in pivotal roles.
The film was originally slated for a theatrical release in March 2026 but was postponed amid tensions in the Middle East.
It was subsequently pushed to June before facing another delay.
Toxic is now scheduled to hit theatres on August 26.
