The Shadows of Violence: A Critical Analysis of Recent Malayalam Cinema

Over the past year, a trend has emerged in Malayalam cinema, mostly in smaller-scale productions. The recurring theme in films like Neru, Irratta, Kannur Squad, Rdx, and Jana Gana Mana has been the frequent use of violence and the portrayal of rape, often with a narrative that ends in justice prevailing. While these films have garnered financial success, they fail to meet the standards of good cinema. This essay delves into the reasons behind this trend and its implications on the industry and society.

Common Themes in Recent Malayalam Films

The aforementioned films share a common pattern: the recurrent theme of rape or molestation of a female character. The climax often involves violence or vengeance, culminating in the protagonist avenging the wrongs done to her. This narrative structure, with variations in cover, is indicative of a lack of creativity on the part of the writers and directors. While financially successful, such films are not artistically or morally commendable. Instead, they merely replicate previous works, serving as mere photocopies of the same plot.

Use of Violence as a Plot Device

Writers and directors often employ violence and rape as tools to drive the plot and evoke emotional responses from the audience. These scenes serve to explore themes such as conflict, justice, and the consequences of violence. It appears that these filmmakers may lack the ability to utilize other storytelling tools effectively. Additionally, they may aim for realism or to depict harsh realities within society, yet the recurring theme of unaddressed rape cases raises ethical questions.

Market Value and Artistic Expression

One potential explanation for the prevalence of rape in these films could be the market value. The societal acceptance and market demand for such violent content may contribute to its frequent use. Filmmakers may view their work as a form of artistic expression or a means to make a social or political statement. However, the method by which they do so—repeatedly portraying rape under various angles to evoke vengeance—has sparked debates on the appropriateness and effectiveness of such approaches.

Entertainment Value and Market Drivers

Another factor driving the use of rape in films is the entertainment market. There is a demand for sensationalist content, and gang rape in particular can generate hyperbolic interest. Smaller violence and a sense of justice for the weak characters are often exploited to create engaging narratives. Unfortunately, this approach often turns a blind eye to the ethical implications and the potential harm such depictions can cause.

Conclusion: A Call for Creativity

The trend in recent Malayalam cinema highlights a concerning reliance on violence and rape to engage audiences. Small-scale productions often turn to these elements as a shortcut, lacking the creativity and diverse storytelling techniques required to produce meaningful and high-quality films. This trend serves as a reminder that filmmakers must strive for more creative and ethical storytelling methods. Despite the financial success of these films, their lack of artistic merit and societal impact cannot be ignored. It is imperative for filmmakers, writers, and society to question and demand better from the industry, fostering a culture that values creativity, ethical storytelling, and the well-being of all characters on screen.

As consumers and critics, we have the power to shape the future of Malayalam cinema. By supporting films that prioritize creative storytelling and ethical content, we can encourage a shift towards a more diverse, engaging, and socially conscious cinema. The shadows of violence may be pervasive, but the light of creativity and ethical filmmaking must guide our path forward.