Writer-director Agneya Singh has decided to play it smart by sticking with the version of his film, M Cream, that was approved by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2014, when it was headed by Leela Samson.
The film, which deals with the use of recreational drugs, has been in the news for its controversial content. The director and his team have now decided not to approach the Pahlaj Nihalani-led CBFC for a new certificate before the release. M Cream is set to arrive in theatres on 22 July.
Singh's film revolves around the drug culture, with the protagonist, played by Imaad Shah, setting out on a cross-country journey in search of the mythical drug named 'M Cream'.
The film was passed by the CBFC led by Samson in 2014, with one minor cut and an 'A' certificate. The film was also screened at the Rhode Island International Film Festival, and won the Grand Prize for Best Feature Film.
Speaking about the decision, the director said, "The international version that targeted film festivals is much more risque and serious. We wanted to release another version with songs and more commercial elements that would be more palatable to the Indian audience. But keeping the current scenario in mind, we have decided to go ahead with the version that has been already censored. Many have told me that the film would have never passed the censors had it gone to the board today."
The CBFC, led by Pahlaj Nihalani, has been at the centre of a 'censorship' storm, with the producers of Udta Punjab taking the board to court for ordering 89 cuts to their film. M Cream has had no such issues to deal with. The director added that the film tackles the aspects of romance and relationships among youth, besides drugs. "We had our trailer censored recently but only a sex scene was edited out so it wasn't too bad."