‘We are being too strict with films’

Actor Parineeti Chopra says people are becoming “overstrict” when it comes to allowing filmmakers to express themselves. Chopra was sharing her opinion in regard to Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chief Pahlaj Nihalani’s objection to the use of word “intercourse” in the teaser of Shah Rukh Khan’s film, Jab Harry Met Sejal.

The 28-year-old actor says, “If there is anything in the film which will have a huge negative impact on kids, then that should be dealt with, but there are certain things about which we are over-thinking.”

Parineeti is perhaps one among the many actors and filmmakers in Bollywood who feel that the freedom of expression of a filmmaker should be respected. “I won’t name anyone, but I feel we are becoming overstrict. Somewhere we are going against the freedom of making films,” says Parineeti.

In the recent past, CBFC has stopped the release of the film Lipstick Under My Burkha on the pretext that it is a “lady oriented” film. Parineeti feels films should be allowed to show relevant issues because it can impact society in a positive way. “Films are larger-than-life. We show things which don’t otherwise happen in real life in the movies. But when we overthink and start cutting a lot of things, then it’ll become a documentary. We should allow that freedom of expression; allow filmmakers to use their imaginative minds to entertain everyone.”