In a significant and groundbreaking move within the realm of Indian cinema, superstar Mammootty has taken on a role that has sparked widespread discussions and admiration. Three weeks ago, the teaser for “Kaathal: The Core,” a Malayalam-language film, was released on YouTube. While the teaser revealed little about the film’s main conflict, it ignited conversations in the southern state of Kerala, where the film hails from, and beyond. The buzz? Mammootty, an actor with a legacy spanning half a century, three National Film Awards, and a massive fan following, portrays a gay character.
Directed by Jeo Baby, renowned for his 2021 hit “The Great Indian Kitchen” addressing patriarchy, “Kaathal” explores the life of a closeted gay man, Mathew, played by Mammootty, who is in a heterosexual marriage. As Mathew prepares to contest a local election, his wife, Omana (played by Jyothika), files for divorce, alleging her husband’s homosexuality. The film delves into the ripple effects of this case within their family and community.
Jeo Baby, the film’s director, expressed the need for a talented actor like Mammootty to bring this story to life, stating, “He understood the film immediately and was willing to do it.” The reviews for “Kaathal” have been overwhelmingly positive, with shows selling out throughout Kerala.
Embracing Diversity Amidst Backlash
Despite the film’s positive reception, “Kaathal” has faced its share of backlash. Social media posts featuring the film’s posters and trailer, including those shared on Mammootty’s accounts, drew criticism from anti-LGBT groups, calling for a boycott and condemning the actor for his role. Some Muslim clerics also criticized the film’s representation of homosexuality, expressing concerns about its influence on the youth.
However, this backlash was not unexpected for the film’s makers and Mammootty. Athul PV, an organizer of the Kerala Queer Pride, noted, “He’s an actor that people admire a lot, so when he plays this character, it makes you think how much thought he put into picking this role and making the film.”
For many in Kerala’s LGBTQ community, “Kaathal” represents a “sensitive” portrayal of a married gay man’s experience. While the film is not above criticism, it is seen as a daring attempt to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions that have persisted in Malayalam cinema.
Charting New Territory in Malayalam Cinema
Malayalam cinema has seen a lack of “sensitive films depicting the LGBTQ community,” as highlighted by Roshni Prabhakaran, an academic who has researched gender representations in films. While queer-coded characters have existed in Malayalam cinema since the 1970s, it was only in 2005, with the film “Chanthupottu,” that mainstream portrayals began to emerge.
“Chanthupottu,” however, faced criticism for perpetuating dangerous misconceptions about queer individuals, and activists argued that it left behind negative stereotypes. In contrast, “Kaathal” is viewed as a refreshing departure from such portrayals, depicting the challenges faced by a closeted man coming out of a heterosexual marriage, a narrative not explored in Malayalam cinema before.
Gay men who have watched “Kaathal” have praised the film for its authentic representation, highlighting its departure from the “queerphobic” elements found in many mainstream films.
Mammootty’s Evolving Legacy
Mammootty’s decision to take on this challenging role reflects his willingness to evolve as an actor and producer. Over the years, he has produced films that explore new subjects and ideas outside the confines of commercial success. “Kaathal” stands as a testament to Mammootty’s commitment to contributing to the evolution of Indian cinema.
In conclusion, “Kaathal” is not merely a film; it is a reflection of the lives of many men within our society. As Prijith PK, founder of Queerythm, a community-based organization, notes, “The film shows these are people in our own homes,” making it a significant step forward in the portrayal of LGBTQ experiences in Indian cinema.