CBFC Cracks Down: Incomplete Films Banned
India's film certification board will no longer accept incomplete movies for review, with titles also subject to change and release dates not considered for priority certification
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has issued a new advisory for filmmakers, stating that incomplete movies will not be accepted for certification. This move aims to ensure that filmmakers plan their certification well in advance and submit complete films for review.
The CBFC will only consider films that are in their final form, including final graphics, background score, and music. Applications with incomplete prints, placeholder graphics, and missing elements will be treated as non-compliant and may be delayed or rejected.
The advisory also states that announced release dates will not be considered for priority certification. Filmmakers have been advised to submit applications well in advance of any intended release date. The CBFC will not be liable for any self-imposed release schedules.
The title of a film is also subject to change, even if it has already been announced publicly. The CBFC advisory states that the title is liable to scrutiny, review, and modification by the examining or revising committee.
## What changed The new advisory comes after 18 new members were announced to constitute the board, including Preity Zinta, Pankaj Tripathi, and Suniel Shetty. The advisory is based on the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the Cinematograph Rules, 2024.
## Why it matters The CBFC's new advisory is significant as it will impact the way filmmakers approach the certification process. With the board no longer considering incomplete films or announced release dates, filmmakers will need to plan their certification well in advance to avoid delays. This move is likely to affect the release schedules of upcoming films, as producers will need to ensure that their films are complete and ready for review before submitting them for certification.
The stakes are high, as any delays in the certification process can result in significant financial losses for filmmakers. The CBFC's new advisory is a reminder that the certification process is a critical step in the release of a film, and filmmakers must be prepared to meet the board's requirements in order to avoid any issues.
