Mammootty’s “Kaathal”: Unveiling Women’s Hidden Lives

Set in a small town in Kerala, “Kaathal,” featuring Mammootty, delves into the complex narrative of a queer love story, centered around Mathew Devassy.

Portrayed with grace by Mammootty, Devassy is an introverted gay man entangled in a marriage with Omana, played by Jyothika, for two decades.

At its core, “Kaathal” is a poignant love story, navigating the silent resentments faced by its characters due to societal expectations and personal struggles.

The storyline unfolds as Devassy, a leftist candidate in a local election, decides to contest, prompting Omana to seek a divorce, weary of the façade their marriage has become.

The film addresses the complexities of queer lives, portraying the messiness, convolutions, and internalized homophobia that can persist within the community. It sheds light on the poignant reality of queer men forced into a life of bisexuality, a facet acknowledged by the Supreme Court in its 2018 verdict decriminalizing homosexuality.

The film’s visuals, illuminated by sun-dappled shadows and evening lights, capture the emotional nuances of its characters. The impact of societal judgment, especially when Devassy is outed, is sensitively portrayed, emphasizing the unequal privileges experienced by queer individuals.

The film’s exploration of a father-son relationship adds depth, culminating in a poignant confrontation. Mammootty’s commendable commitment to the project not only showcases his acting prowess but also serves as a validating presence for older generations unfamiliar with queer narratives.

“Kaathal” stands as a testament to progress in portraying diverse queer experiences in mainstream Indian cinema, bridging gaps in understanding and acceptance.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Vogue India}