A new horror film backed by KGF and Salaar director Prashanth Neel has run into a CBFC certification hurdle ahead of its theatrical release. Titled ‘418’, the film marks the directorial debut of Kirtan Nadagouda, who previously worked as an assistant director with Neel. Presented by Prashanth Neel and another leading production house, the project has already created curiosity because of its horror genre and the filmmaker’s association with it.

‘418’ faces 4 CBFC objections over its horror elements

The certification process for ‘418’ has reportedly hit a roadblock after the Central Board of Film Certification raised objections to the film’s horror content. According to a report by Telugu360, the CBFC has reportedly expressed concern over the film containing “too many horror elements”. The makers have now approached the Revising Committee in an effort to resolve the issue and secure certification. The development has also left the film’s theatrical plans uncertain. ‘418’ was earlier scheduled to hit theatres on July 31, but the release did not take place as planned. The team is expected to announce a new date once the certification process is completed.

CBFC horror objection sparks reactions from ‘418’ fans

The reported objection has also led to an unexpected reaction from social media users. Several moviegoers found it ironic that a horror film was facing a hurdle because of its horror elements. “Horror movie having horror elements is a problem nowadays,” one user commented. Another wrote, “Horror movie should have horror elements otherwise what’s the point.” Some users said they were looking forward to a horror film that could genuinely scare audiences, while another suggested that the makers should seek an A certificate and release the film. The reactions have added another layer of attention to ‘418’ even before its release.

Prashanth Neel’s ‘418’ brings a new horror film to Telugu cinema

‘418’ stars Surya Raj, Charan Lakkaraju and Preethi Pagadal in the lead roles. The story details are being kept under wraps, but the film is positioned as a horror project with an emphasis on its genre elements. For Kirtan Nadagouda, the film marks his first outing as a director after working with Prashanth Neel.Meanwhile, Prashanth Neel’s involvement as presenter has added to the interest around the film. The filmmaker is best known for the ‘KGF’ franchise and ‘Salaar’, while ‘418’ takes his association into a different genre space. With the certification issue now being reviewed, audiences will have to wait for the makers to reveal the film’s new release date.