Unpacking ‘Abhyanthara Kuttavali’: Does Asif Ali’s Film Truly Address Men’s Struggles or Miss the Mark?

Abhyanthara Kuttavali Movie Review: In this film, Sahadevan, played by Asif Ali, breaks the fourth wall, telling viewers not to react to a tragic death since it’s “just a man.” This moment highlights a serious issue: the rising number of male suicides in India, often linked to marriage problems. Many experts agree that societal pressures affect men too, and there’s a need for balanced discussions around men’s mental health. Yet, the film seems to miss a crucial point by focusing primarily on male victimhood without addressing women’s historical struggles.

Initially, Sahadevan’s marriage to Nayana (Thulasi) brings joy, but it quickly turns sour. Nayana accuses him of demanding dowry and abusing her, leading to legal troubles. The film portrays Sahadevan’s fight to prove his innocence, as well as the struggles of other men facing similar accusations. Here, it taps into a significant theme: the perception that the legal system favors women. However, the narrative struggles to present a balanced view of these issues.

While the movie is labeled as fiction, it often paints male characters in a positive light, portraying them as misunderstood or noble. This contrasts sharply with the near-certain villainization of female characters, who are often depicted as manipulative or selfish. For example, a matchmaking scene shows a woman interrogating a man about his finances, reinforcing negative stereotypes. Such portrayals oversimplify complex gender dynamics, reducing women’s experiences to mere backdrop for men’s stories.

Interestingly, near the film’s end, Nayana and her friend briefly share their own hardships, hinting that they too face struggles. One character recounts violent abuse, highlighting the serious issues women encounter. However, these moments are fleeting, making one wonder why women’s stories are sidelined throughout the film. Their experiences deserve more attention and empathy, given the many struggles they endure daily, including harassment.

The film does touch upon the reality of false accusations, which is a real issue that should not be ignored. However, it overlooks the many unreported cases of abuse that women face at home. Studies indicate that a significant number of these incidents remain hidden, highlighting the need for a nuanced discussion rather than a simplistic portrayal of victimhood.

Critics note that by focusing solely on men’s struggles, “Abhyanthara Kuttavali” appeals to a specific audience, potentially confirming their biases. It misses an opportunity to explore the important conversation around both men’s and women’s experiences in today’s society. By not fully addressing the systemic issues at play, the film simplifies complex problems into a one-dimensional narrative.

Although Asif Ali delivers a commendable performance, the film leans heavily on dialogue rather than allowing his acting to convey emotion. In contrast, other actors like Harisree Ashokan provide comic relief, though not all humor lands well. Thulasi’s portrayal of Nayana falls flat at times, missing the chance to fully express the character’s inner turmoil.

In summary, “Abhyanthara Kuttavali” tries to address important issues but often fails to present a balanced view. It simplifies complex themes into a male-centric narrative, diminishing the voices of women who have faced significant hardships. While it raises valid points about men’s struggles, a more inclusive approach could foster better understanding and empathy. The conversation about gender in society needs depth, and cinema can play a crucial role in shaping those discussions.

Movie Cast: Asif Ali, Jagadeesh, Harisree Ashokan, Sidharth Bharathan, Thulasi, Shreya Rukmini
Director: Sethunath Padmakumar
Rating: 1.5 stars

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