The anticipation surrounding Mammootty and Jyothika's upcoming film, 'Kaathal - The Core,' has reached a crescendo, making it one of the most eagerly awaited movies of 2023. However, the excitement has been met with a surprising roadblock as the governments of Kuwait and Qatar have decided to ban the film, adding to the list of Indian movies facing restrictions in these countries due to storyline misalignments with their ideologies.
Directed by the talented Jeo Baby of 'The Great Indian Kitchen' fame, 'Kaathal - The Core' brings together the powerhouse performances of Mammootty and Jyotika for the first time, promising a cinematic experience that intrigued audiences from the very first glimpse of its recently released trailer.
Just days before its scheduled grand release in theaters on November 23, the film has faced unexpected challenges, with Kuwait and Qatar authorities citing the film's exploration of homosexuality as the grounds for the ban. The film's synopsis sheds light on the central theme, revolving around George Devassy (Mammootty), a retired decorated official, and his unexpected journey into the murky waters of societal judgments. After deciding to contest in the upcoming Panchayat Elections, George's life takes an unexpected turn when his wife, Omana (Jyothika), files for divorce, alleging that George has been in a homosexual relationship with Thankan, his friend from the same village.
The narrative delves into the complexities of societal perceptions, with Omana seeking a divorce not on the grounds of moral judgment but as a personal choice. George vehemently denies the allegations, leading to a village-wide controversy that jeopardizes his political candidacy. 'Kaathal - The Core' courageously tackles the politics of society's mindset towards homosexuality, providing a poignant exploration of love, acceptance, and the challenges faced by individuals breaking free from societal norms.
The film is set to be screened at the prestigious International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), adding another feather to its cap. Jointly written by Adarsh Sukumaran and Paulson Skaria, the film is a Malayalam drama produced by Mammootty Kampany, boasting a stellar crew with music by Matthews Pulickan, cinematography by Salu K Thomas, and editing by Francies Louis. As 'Kaathal - The Core' prepares to make its mark on the cinematic landscape, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to challenge societal norms and promote understanding in the face of adversity.