First reactions for the movie Toxic starring Yash show conflicting feedback from critics and audiences. Multiple reviewers described the film as a soulless, incomprehensible action epic and an overwhelming experience. A number of audience members called the movie a complete nightmare and torture. Other reviewers noted Yash delivers a commanding screen presence despite director Geetu Mohandas getting lost in its execution.
India's film certification board reduced intimate scenes by thirty percent in seven places in the original Kannada version. The board also muted dialogue in the Kannada release. The film shows similarities to KGF, but fails to reach a Hollywood gangster epic.