Nudity, words cut: Robert Pattinson's Primetime gets A certificate despite changes

Actor Robert Pattinson's Primetime has been cleared in India with an A certificate after CBFC-mandated changes. The cuts, muted words and added warnings shaped its September 25 release.

In Short

• Robert Pattinson's Primetime underwent changes by CBFC before India release
• The film was granted an 'A' certificate
• A seven-second portion featuring frontal nudity was removed, board records show

Actor Robert Pattinson’s Primetime has been cleared for release in India with an ‘A’ certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The psychological crime thriller, released in India on September 25, underwent several changes before receiving certification, including cuts to certain scenes, muted language, and added warnings.

The CBFC examined Primetime just days before its scheduled release and cleared the film for adult audiences after the makers complied with the changes suggested by the board.

As part of the certification process, the makers were asked to add a static anti-alcohol warning on screen, in line with regulations governing the depiction of alcohol consumption in films. An alcohol brand name shown in the film was also blurred.

The film also underwent a seven-second cut involving frontal nudity, with the CBFC examination report specifically recording the deletion as seven seconds.

Two instances of obscene language were muted as well, with one word removed from each of the two separate cuts mentioned in the examination report.

The CBFC also directed the makers to add a 10-second disclaimer at the beginning of the film. The warning reads: “This film is strictly intended for adult audiences due to its sensitive theme and the disturbing nature of certain visuals and sequences. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.”

After these changes, the censor board granted Primetime an ‘A’ certificate ahead of its India release on September 25.

Set in 2006, Primetime follows television journalist Chris Hansen as he works on To Catch a Predator, the NBC programme that made him widely known. The real-life show used hidden cameras to confront men suspected of attempting to meet minors.

The psychological crime thriller takes that chapter of Hansen’s career and turns it into a story about television, journalism and the pressure to transform real-life crime into compelling viewing. It also explores the blurred line between reporting a story and turning it into entertainment.

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