Antony makers' statement after Joju George-starrer is criticised for hurting religious sentiments – ‘We will strive to be more mindful'

Antony, the action thriller helmed by veteran filmmaker Joshiy, hit theatres last week. The project, which features Joju George in the titular role and Kalyani Priyadarshan as the female lead, has been receiving mixed reviews from audiences and critics. Meanwhile, Antony has been receiving harsh criticism from a group of viewers who felt the project hurt religious sentiments.

Antony criticised for hurting religious sentiments

The Joshiy directorial has been receiving flak from a group of social media users who allege that the movie hurts religious sentiments. According to them, Antony shows the Holy Bible in a bad light, as a character in the film is seen using the book to hide his gun. The latest reports suggest that some believers have also filed a lawsuit against the Joju George-Kalyani Priyadarshan starrer for the same. 

Also Read: Antony movie review - Joju George, Kalyani Priyadarshan flex their muscles in typical Joshiy film 

Makers of Antony release official statement

The makers of Antony released an official statement, clarifying the actual intentions behind this scene. “It has come to our attention that there have been some conversations and concerns raised regarding a particular scene in ‘Antony’, involving a particular faith. As the makers of the movie, we want to reinstate the fact that ‘Antony’ is a work of fiction that endeavours to tell a compelling story through artistic expression. The scene in question was crafted with the utmost respect for our diverse set of beliefs and without any intent to undermine or offend anyone,” reads the official statement released by production banner Einstin Media.

Also Read: Antony star Kalyani Priyadarshan – 'Joshiy sir was a stranger who quickly became like my father' 

“We want to affirm our commitment to treating all faiths with due reverence and clarify that the mentioned scene is purely a cinematic representation of the featured character’s unique storyline, where the ammunition in question is an act of self-defense and not anything to incite violence. We value the rich tapestry of beliefs within our audience, and we take into serious consideration any unintended consequences of the creative choices made in 'Antony.’ As creators, we understand the significance of responsible storytelling, especially when it involves matters of faith. We will strive to be more mindful in our future creative endeavours while upholding creative principles and artistic goals,” further reads the statement.

About Antony

Joju George appeared in the role of Antony Anthrapper, a ruthless gangster. Kalyani Priyadarshan, on the other hand, played the role of Ann Maria, the daughter of another goon named Xavier, whom he killed accidentally. The Joshiy directorial features a stellar star cast, including Vijayaraghavan, Nyla Usha, Asha Sharath, Chemban Vinod Jose, and others in supporting roles. The project is produced by Einstin Zac Paul under the banner Einstin Media.

Watch Enkilum Chandrike on OTTplay by subscribing to the Simply South pack which provides access to 14 OTTs at just Rs 199/month.