"Just because our movie has received 'A' certificate from the CBFC, please don't assume that it has vulgarity or sexually explicit scenes. Couple Friendly is a feel-good love story," distributor Dheeraj Mogilineni said on Tuesday, days ahead of the theatrical release of the movie. Starring Santosh Shoban and Manasa Varanasi, the film will head to theatres on February 14.
The Censor Board felt that the title sounds unsuitable for children. "They asked us to change the title or accept 'A' rating. We accepted the Adults-only rating because changing the title after all these months of publicity was not an option," Mogilineni added. "The journey of Shiva and Mitra will be seen as emotional. The lead pair has their families. Just because the title is Couple Friendly, don't think it is meant only for youngsters. Everyone is genuinely wishing for Santosh's success. They see him as their own. He should reach the top in the coming years. We have all wanted to see Telugu girls on the screen. Manasa is one of our own. She has not strayed from her character in this film even for a moment. The technical departments have been working tirelessly. I wish director Ashwin Chandrasekhar all the best. As for UV Creations, we all know how big the banner is," Dheeraj added.
The distributor further spoke about the movie. "The first half ends on a balanced note, giving equal scope for the male and the female to put out their points of view. The audience will be touched by the emotions they go through. They are relatable characters. Since the male partner can do anything for his girlfriend, everyone will connect with the story," he observed.
Actor Santosh thanked Mogilineni for taking ownership of the project. "The soul of the film hasn't been revealed yet. You will have to discover it in the theatre. In a romantic relationship, consent and safety are everything. We are genuinely happy about the positive vibes we have felt in recent days during our promotional tours in Vizag and Vijayawada. Our movie should debut in theatres with this positivity. Manasa is a stellar actor. She will surely bag author-backed roles and will reach the top after this movie," the actor shared, suggesting that the arc of his character is intimately tied to the moves his girlfriend makes.
Actress Manasa said, "I have received numerous calls and messages ever since the trailer was out. This is about all of us winning. I am grateful to Mogilineni for stepping in. Today's youngsters are smart enough to figure out for themselves if live-in is right for them. Mitra is independent and follows her heart. I found them relatable."
Couple Friendly, produced by UV Concepts, is set in Chennai. Although this was first intended to be Telugu-only, it has been dubbed into Tamil because of its backdrop. The film will open in theatres at regular ticket prices.
