In a world of toxic masculinity belted out with gay abandon on screen, Kaathal weaves a masterpiece of a story. It’s a tender, painful story of love, longing, and separation. It’s one of the finest takes on pain and longing that one will see on screen for a long long time.
The director, Jeo Baby, handles the story of a gay man with the maturity that is rarely seen in cinema.
Mammooty and Jyothika playing man and wife are outstanding and it’s a slow slow burn. It’s a lot of little things that make a brilliant film. Jyothika as Omana portrays elegance and grace, equally matched by Mammooty who plays Mathew, who will make you drive you to tears with his brilliant portrayal of a closeted homosexual.
This is yet another low budget gem from the creator of the brilliant The Great Indian Kitchen, and reinforced the fact that the budget does not mean anything. Story, acting, and the little things …scenes that steal your heart …
Mathew looking towards the kitchen after Omana leaves.
Omana telling Mathew “I am fighting your your love too.”
And Mathew breaking down in front of his Father at the end .. “what’s my fault?”
When Mathew goes to meet his daughter during her basketball practice … and leaves midway, it tugs at your heartstrings. It makes you want better things for him.
It helps you empathise … with homosexuals and with people in general.
And the background music is a perfect foil to this masterpiece.
Don’t miss this gem… a 10/10 from me.