Why Mammootty-Jyothika's 'Kaathal—The Core' is receiving widespread critical acclaim
What's the story
Jeo Baby's latest Malayalam-language drama, Kaathal—The Core, has become the current favorite of critics and audiences alike. Led by Mammootty and Jyothika, the film is an LGBTQ drama and casts a sensitive, sympathetic gaze on the community and the challenges of coming out in a largely conservative society. Let's dig deeper into the film and the intent of the makers.
Plot
This is 'Kaathal—The Core's storyline
IMDb describes Kaathal's plot as follows, "The story of Mathew and Omana. Mathew, a retired bank secretary, reluctantly enters politics for a by-election. The movie delves into their marriage dynamics, justice, and personal fulfillment amidst a tight-knit village community." It has an 8.4/10 rating, and most of its acclaim comes from Mammootty's decision to embrace the unconventional role of a homosexual man at 72!
Acting ensemble
First film starring Jyothika and Mammootty
Kaathal is also special because it marks Jyothika's return to Malayalam films after 2009's Seetha Kalyanam. Mammootty and Jyothika's pairing (this is their first film together), coupled with the storyline, has given Kaathal—The Core the wings to fly, and so has the rest of the ensemble cast: Muthumani, Sudhi Kozhikode, and Josey Sijo. Baby earlier explored conservatism versus modernity in The Great Indian Kitchen.
On Mammootty
Surprisingly, Mammootty wasn't first choice for it
The film's co-writer, Adarsh Sukumaran, revealed he never expected someone of Mammootty's stature to take on the lead role. "We had envisioned another Malayalam actor as the protagonist, Mathew Devassy," he said, adding the actor they met liked it, but due to certain reasons, it could not happen. When the writing team met Baby, he suggested Mammootty's name; the superstar agreed after thoughtful consideration.
Baby on Mammootty
How Mammootty contributed to this film
Baby spoke to Moneycontrol about Mammootty's process, "Since he understood the relevance of the story, he was keen on polishing the screenplay. He would send voice notes and exchange ideas." "Even if he had minor issues, he is also the first one to clear that with you later on... You don't need to direct him. He was well-versed with the character's graph," he added.
BO collection
Box office collection, audience reviews
Kaathal—The Core, released on Thursday, opened to Rs. 1.05cr (domestic). On Friday, it recorded a 19.05% growth and added Rs. 1.25cr to its coffer, which is a direct result of its positive word-of-mouth. Viewers have lauded the Malayalam film for its "brave storytelling" and "powerful performances." A fan wrote on Instagram, "Hats off to Mammootty for doing such a daring character and subject."
Twitter Post
Here's what another fan said
Kaathal: The Core - It's not a film, it's a revelation. And I don't know any other megastar who would accept such a radical movie with strong politics except Mammukka. Kudos and Thanks to Jeo Baby and graceful performance by Jyothika.
— Chay! (@illusionistChay) November 23, 2023
Must watch 💙 pic.twitter.com/H8iGBnkVF2