Now Reading: Toxic review: Yash shines in Geetu Mohandas’s gangster drama
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Toxic review: Yash shines in Geetu Mohandas’s gangster drama
Geetu Mohandas's 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups', starring Yash in dual roles, released in theatres on Wednesday. The film, set in post-independence Goa, follows gangster Raya (Yash) and his sister Ganga (Nayanthara) as they seek control over illegal trade. Business Today gave the film a 3.5/5 rating, praising Yash's star power and the director's unique storytelling. Hindustan Times reported a lukewarm response from critics and audiences.
The 3 hour 14 minute film features Yash as Raya and his son Ticket. Business Today highlighted the strong supporting cast including Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi and Rukmini Vasanth. The first half is slow but necessary, while the second half ramps up action with raw and brutal violence.
Hindustan Times reports the ending reveals Ticket was a figment of Raya's imagination, killed years ago. Raya's mind breaks as he loses his family. The film ends with him accepting his son and surrendering to chaos, with the finale left open to interpretation.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Business Today's review is a straightforward recommendation, praising performances and scale. Hindustan Times focuses on the plot twist and explains the ending as a psychological breakdown. Both outlets avoid ideological framing. The lukewarm response Hindustan Times notes may reflect mixed audience reception. The film's 3-hour runtime and slow first half could test patience, while the violent second half may divide viewers. Box office collections in the coming week will indicate commercial success.
Analysis: The film's 'toxic' theme and unreliable narrator add depth beyond typical gangster fare. Business Today rates it 3.5/5, Hindustan Times reports mixed audience reaction. The twist ending may generate debate. Box office performance this weekend will show audience appetite for this ambitious film.
Coverage: 2 sources, 2 neutral
Sources (2): bazaar.businesstoday.in (neutral report), hindustantimes.com (neutral report)
This brief was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above, so one read covers every framing they carry. Methodology and corrections.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
