Coolie’ is for adults, fit for A certificate: CBFC to Madras HC
The Central Board of Film Certification’s (CBFC) revising committee has upheld the ‘A’ certification for Rajinikanth-starrer ‘Coolie’, stating that the film is fit to be viewed only by adults due to its violent scenes. The decision has been challenged in the Madras High Court, where the case is currently pending.
The CBFC had earlier imposed an ‘A’ certificate on the film, citing its violent and mature themes. However, advocate J Ravindran, representing the film’s producers, argued that the makers had adhered to all conditions previously imposed by the board and therefore deserve a U/A (Unrestricted Public Exhibition with Advisory) certificate.
The case was heard in the Madras High Court, where both the CBFC and the film’s producers presented their arguments. The CBFC’s revising committee stated that the film’s violent scenes, including a scene where a character is killed, made it unsuitable for children and adolescents. The committee also pointed out that the film’s content was not suitable for all ages and that it was necessary to restrict its viewing to adults only.
Advocate Ravindran, on the other hand, argued that the film’s producers had made changes to the film as per the CBFC’s suggestions and that the film was now suitable for all ages. He also pointed out that the film’s content was not more violent or mature than other films that had been certified with a U/A certificate.
After hearing both sides, the Madras High Court has reserved the case, which means that the court will take some time to consider the arguments and deliver a verdict. The court’s decision will have significant implications for the film’s release and its audience.
The ‘A’ certificate for ‘Coolie’ has been a contentious issue, with some arguing that the film’s violent scenes make it unsuitable for children and adolescents. The film’s producers, on the other hand, argue that the film is a classic and that it has been certified with an ‘A’ certificate without any changes to its content.
The CBFC’s decision to uphold the ‘A’ certificate for ‘Coolie’ is not unprecedented. The board has been known to impose ‘A’ certificates on films that contain mature or violent themes. However, the decision has been criticized by some who argue that the board is being too restrictive and that films should be allowed to be certified with a U/A certificate.
The debate over certification is an important one, as it has significant implications for the film industry and its audience. The CBFC’s decision to impose an ‘A’ certificate on ‘Coolie’ has sparked a heated debate over the board’s role and the need for stricter censorship laws.
In conclusion, the case of ‘Coolie’ is a significant one, as it highlights the ongoing debate over film certification and censorship. The CBFC’s decision to uphold the ‘A’ certificate for the film is a reflection of its commitment to maintaining high standards for films and protecting children and adolescents from mature or violent content. However, the decision has also sparked a debate over the need for stricter censorship laws and the role of the CBFC in regulating the film industry.
