‘Marco’ Faces Certification Controversy Over Violent Content

In a surprising turn of events, "Marco," a Malayalam action thriller directed and penned by Haneef Adeni, has found itself in the middle of a certification controversy. The film, which hit the screens in December 2024, delves into the life of a gangster named Marco and the powerful Adat family's attempts to dominate Kerala's gold mafia. Despite its compelling narrative, "Marco" has been branded as the language's "most violent" film to date, raising concerns over its eligibility for television broadcasting.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has refused to downgrade "Marco's" certification from an ‘A’ (Adults Only) to a ‘UA’ (Parental Guidance for children below the age of 12 years) category. This decision directly impacts the movie's potential for acquiring television rights, as films with an ‘A’ certification face significant restrictions on their broadcast on TV channels. The refusal is primarily due to the film's depiction of extreme violence, which the CBFC deems unsuitable for a less restricted audience.

Adding to the controversy, the CBFC's regional officer has appealed to the central authorities, seeking to block "Marco" from being shown on OTT platforms as well. This move underscores the regulatory body's stern stance on content it considers excessively violent, irrespective of the viewing medium. The filmmakers' effort to broaden the movie's reach faces a formidable challenge, given these regulatory hurdles.

In response to the backlash against the film's violent content, "Marco’s" producer, Shareef Muhammed, has made a public statement regarding the future direction of their projects. Muhammed assured that their next film, "Kaattalan," would dial back on the intensity of violence depicted on screen. He also clarified that "Marco" was never intended to glorify or promote violent behavior among viewers. This acknowledgment reflects a willingness to adapt content creation strategies in light of the controversy surrounding "Marco."

The Film Employees Federation of Kerala has voiced its criticism towards political figures and youth organizations that draw connections between societal violence and the violent themes portrayed in movies like "Marco." This debate highlights the ongoing discussion about the impact of cinematic content on society and the responsibility of filmmakers in shaping public perception.

As "Marco" navigates the complex landscape of film certification and public opinion, the broader conversation about content regulation, artistic freedom, and social responsibility continues to evolve. The film's struggle to secure TV rights due to its violent content raises questions about the balancing act between creative expression and societal values.