Bad Newz Faces CBFC Scissors: Vicky Kaushal-Tripti Dimri’s Intimate Scenes Trimmed

Vicky Kaushal and Tripti Dimri’s upcoming film Bad Newz has been making headlines, but not necessarily for the reasons the filmmakers might have hoped. According to reports, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has taken a snip at the movie’s intimate scenes, raising questions about censorship in Indian cinema.

Here’s what we know:

• The CBFC Examining Committee reportedly flagged three scenes featuring Vicky Kaushal and Tripti Dimri for containing excessive intimacy.
• These scenes totaled 27 seconds: one lasting 9 seconds, another 10 seconds, and the third clocking in at 8 seconds.
• Crucially, reports indicate the CBFC didn’t entirely remove the scenes. Instead, they requested modifications to the visuals, specifically asking for the “visual of lip-lock to be modified.” The nature of these modifications remains unclear.

The CBFC’s decision has sparked debate:

• Some viewers question the need for censorship, arguing that it curtails artistic freedom and reflects outdated social mores.
• Others defend the CBFC’s role in maintaining appropriate content for audiences, particularly considering India’s diverse cultural landscape.

Beyond the intimate scenes, the CBFC also reportedly suggested minor changes:

• Replacing a disclaimer at the beginning of the film.
• Inserting anti-alcohol messages.
• Increasing the font size of existing anti-alcohol messages.

What about the movie itself?

Bad Newz is said to be a spiritual successor to the 2019 film Good Newwz. It explores the concept of heteropaternal superfecundation, a rare phenomenon where twins have different biological fathers.

Theatrical release and audience reaction are yet to be seen, but the CBFC’s intervention has undoubtedly generated pre-release buzz. Whether this translates to positive reception at the box office remains to be seen.