While Geetu Mohandas’ Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups has sparked sharply divided reactions since its theatrical release, the Yash-starrer has found strong support from two filmmakers who have previously worked with its lead actors.

Pavan Wadeyar, who directed Yash in the 2013 romantic comedy Googly, watched the film in a packed theatre and applauded Geetu and Yash for attempting something unconventional. Calling Toxic a “daring attempt”, Wadeyar said he viewed the film as more than a conventional entertainer, describing it as a psychological journey centred on its characters

The filmmaker did acknowledge that the film’s writing and editing could have been tighter. However, he singled out Yash’s performance, particularly his portrayal of the older version of Raya and Ticket. Wadeyar was especially affected by the film’s final stretch, admitting that the climax left him in tears. “I had tears in my eyes at the end for Raya,” he wrote on X.

Hemanth M Rao, meanwhile, responded to the film from the perspective of a filmmaker who has also worked with one of its actors. The Sapta Sagaradaache Ello director, who previously directed Rukmini Vasanth, praised the conviction behind the project and the choices made by its cast and crew.

For Hemanth, the film’s willingness to take risks was its biggest strength. He called the making of Toxic a brave exercise and praised the performances across the board, while specifically highlighting Yash’s portrayal of the “older-madder” Raya. He also described the final half-hour as beautiful and recommended experiencing the film on the big screen.

Toxic, which marks Yash’s return to theatres after the KGF franchise, is directed by Geetu Mohandas and features him in dual roles. Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria and Rukmini Vasanth are also part of the ensemble. The film follows gangster Raya as his violent past and personal relationships begin to collide, with the narrative taking a psychological turn as it progresses.

Released on August 26, Toxic has received a mixed response, with its ambition, performances and visual style earning appreciation even as its screenplay and editing have come under criticism. Some reviews have also noted the film’s attempt to subvert the conventions of the larger-than-life gangster genre.