Upendra Calls Yash’s ‘Toxic’ An ‘Entirely New Experience’ As Online Debate Intensifies

Kannada actor and filmmaker Upendra has heaped praise on Yash’s latest release, ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’, describing the film as a “new world” and an “entirely new experience”. His glowing reaction, however, has added to the sharply divided conversation surrounding the Geetu Mohandas-directed gangster drama.

Upendra shared his review on X in both Kannada and English after watching the film. “ Watched Toxic. Wow! What a movie! A new world and an entirely new experience! ” he wrote, while applauding the hard work, dedication and passion of the film’s artists and technicians.

He also congratulated Yash and the entire team, saying their efforts deserved appreciation.

The post quickly sparked a lively debate online. While some social media users agreed with Upendra’s appreciation for the film’s unconventional storytelling and psychological themes, others strongly criticised the movie and rejected his assessment. Several users argued that the film’s experimental style was closer to Upendra’s own filmmaking sensibilities, making his positive response unsurprising.

The broader reaction to ‘Toxic’ has remained mixed and polarised since its theatrical release on August 26, 2026. While some viewers have praised its ambitious world-building, performances and distinctive visual style, criticism has also been directed at its screenplay and editing.

Despite the divided critical and audience response, the film opened strongly at the box office. Reports said it crossed ₹100 crore on its opening day across languages, underlining the enormous anticipation surrounding Yash’s return to cinemas following the success of ‘KGF: Chapter 2’.

Directed by Geetu Mohandas, ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’ features Yash alongside Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria and Rukmini Vasanth. The gangster drama was released as a major pan-India film during the Onam period and has become one of the most widely discussed Indian releases of the week.

For now, Upendra’s enthusiastic endorsement stands in sharp contrast to the criticism from a section of moviegoers—highlighting just how divisive ‘Toxic’ has become in its opening days.