Kaathal - The Core

For the Indian society, this movie is an extremely difficult topic to narrate to, actors to act, and makers to conceptualize. There are no references for the actors to view, read through or probably not much on the legal references too.

Complex, complicated in the eyes of a common man, brilliantly written (Adarsh Sukumaran and Paulson Skaria) and executed. Director (Jeo Baby) has proved once again that he could take a topic that's rare to be divulged, write it almost politically correct and execute it. Nobody shouts at high decibels, they do not call names, they don't wish others ill, this is idealistic and much more. Pray tell? Watch the movie and you'll know, provocation isn't needed in a relationship to be one's self.

I normally don't agree on praising the leading actors, especially when they are super star actors. However, Jyothika and Mamookka definitely should be praised for this movie.

Jyo for being part of progressive content, that she chooses, everytime. Mamookka for not typecasting himself.

The simplicity of the arc (of his character, in this movie) and the final say, grabs you by the throat. Last but not the least, Sudhi Kozhikode is a perfect cast for the movie, man he's out of the world.

This movie, in the history of Indian cinema, will be a leap towards progressiveness and inclusivity. They have tried to normalize different identities and show audiences that the world is not as black and white as it is often painted to be. And, succeeded.

'Mammootty Kampany's' last 3 movies (Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam, Rorschach, Kannur Squad and Kaathal - The Core) are poles opposite in genre and quality movie experience. In all of these, other characters get same or more screen space and are catalysts too.

When other actors of Mammokka's age are playing saviors and have god syndrome. This man, is on a separate league.

I am in awe of the staging (to keep the tension), Cinematography (Salu Thomas), and Music (Mathews Pulickan. ) When Chitra Ma sings - "Anbaleyen Chiragalanjeedum", written by - Anvar Ali (Roughly translates to - 'My wings will protect you, with love') the facade of being strongs breaks down. There's a heart ache, when this line ends. And, one carries that ache and leaves the movie hall.

There was standing ovation after the movie. On a weeekday in Tamilnadu, the movie is almost sold out. That is a testimony of the quality of the content and the making. Grace, dignity and love personified should've been the tagline of the movie.

The true strength of 'Kaathal' lies in its subtlety and its sincerest portrayal of the LGBTQ community.

The narrative not only highlights the challenges and the struggles faced by individuals associated with this group, but also sheds light on the difficulties faced by their friends and families due to societal and judicial reluctance.

More Importantly, the story does not get vindictive or vilify any specific group or their people or their beliefs. Instead, it tries to offer a compassionate & empathetic perspective on society and the ordinary people who inhabit it.

The story comprehends the various viewpoints without endorsing segregation, nor does it promote coercive cohabitation but it rather advocates for harmonious coexistence through equal rights and understanding.

P. S. Mammootty's remarkable range and diverse script choices, especially at the age of 72 (yes, you heard it right, 72), are truly remarkable!

If you are a fan of fast-paced masala movies, Kaathal might appear to be a slow drama. However, the emotionally-packed performances devoid of unnecessary drama will keep you hooked till the very end. Don't go by reviews and unfair criticism. Movies like this deserve to be watched in the theatre. I had high expectation from Jeo Baby and as usual, he beats expectations. Rather than waiting for its OTT release, please go and watch movies like these in theatres. Mammotty and Jyotika are brilliant as ever. Sudhi Kozhikode who plays Thankan may not have a lot of dialogues but does full justice to his part through his impecccable ability to emote pain and love. Give Kaathal a chance, watch it without preconceived notions about the genre. Leave your prejudices aside and you'll thoroughly enjoy the movie. Those 120 minutes of your day will be well spent.

Despite gradual progress in recent times, a deep-seated reluctance to openly discuss LGBTQ issues persists within the Indian sociocultural landscape. While more LGBTQ+ characters are appearing in Indian films, some portrayals have been criticized for being superficial and lacking authenticity. While it's encouraging that mainstream media is acknowledging LGBTQ+ issues, true progress will only be achieved when these portrayals move beyond tokenism and explore the complexities of LGBTQ+ experiences in a genuine and meaningful way. One such film which is Kaathal spearheaded and produced by the GOAT.

Coming to this film, in the heart of a tranquil village in Kottayam district of Kerala, Mathew Devassy (Mammootty), a seasoned man plunges into the fray of a byelection in his local gram panchayat, driven by the directives of his Leftist party. He dives headfirst into the political arena as the election fervor intensifies. However, a seismic revelation shatters Mathew's carefully constructed world - his wife, Omana (Jyotika), has initiated divorce proceedings, alleging in her filings that her husband is a homosexual. The story navigates through the conflict of personal struggles as he confronts unforgiving societal expectations and the fragility of human relationships around him. This setups for Matthew opening himself up to the world he had left behind, embracing the complexities of his identity and leading him to confront the societal prejudices that have long confined him. This thought-provoking film breaks away from conventional expectations, showcasing Mammootty's versatility and dedication to his craft. His willingness to take on unconventional roles further cements his status as a cinematic legend and allowing Jyothika and rest of the characters to shine alongside him. Jyothika's performance is arguably one of her best in recent years, despite occasional dubbing issues.

Applauds are due to director Jeo Baby, Adarsh Sukumaran, Paulson Skaria, and the entire Kaathal team for crafting this remarkable film. While its unhurried pace might not appeal to everyone, I found myself captivated by the story's organic unfolding, devoid of the need for external validation. Kaathal rewards its viewers with exceptional performances and a thought-provoking narrative, demonstrating its brilliance in its simplicity.

What a extraordinary Movie. Mamooka and Joe and the Writter and the Director and the entire Crew. How can a Actor like Mamootty can even think to act in such a story. That's the passion he has on Cinema. The same with Joe. Climax is heart warming even expected. Tamil actors will act only in killing 100 men in a single punch. Telugu movie ....no need to say. But Malayalam movies takes Indian Cinema to next forum. The one scene when the hero cries with his father and with his wife is the Core of Love. The last Win he makes is the core of love peoples have on him. Every family should watch this movie.