Initial reviews for the movie Toxic starring Yash show conflicting feedback from film reviewers and viewers. Multiple reviewers called the movie a soulless, incomprehensible action epic and an overwhelming experience. Some viewers called the movie a total nightmare and torture. Additional critics noted Yash delivers a strong screen presence despite director Geetu Mohandas getting lost in its execution.
India's film certification board cut sensual scenes by thirty percent in seven places in the original Kannada version. The board also silenced certain audio in the Kannada release. The film carries elements of KGF, but fails to reach a Hollywood gangster epic.