2023 could well be Mammootty’s best year in recent times. With back to back hits, Mammootty has proved that he is still the best bet to play diverse roles. The megastar concluded 2023 with his best role – a closeted gay politician who has a strange relationship with his wife played by Jyothika.
The film directed by critically-acclaimed filmmaker Jeo Baby, whose previous works include ‘The Great Indian Kitchen’ and ‘Freedom Fight’, subtly discusses an unconventional topic in a highly sensitive manner. Review: Mammootty, Jyothika's 'Kaathal' rides on theme unconventional to 'the core' In 'Kaathal The Core', Mammootty plays Mathew, a respectable person in society who is fielded as the Left party's candidate from Theekoyi panchayat in the elections. He is a man of few words and, seemingly, has a practical approach to life, without indulging in any drama.
This is evident when he steps in to defend a young couple in love. 'All you have to do is make two extra chapathis for the boy ,' he tells the girl's mother, implying that barriers can be broken by a little acceptance. Read review here Mammootty's 'Kaathal' and Prithviraj's 'Mumbai Police': Two perspectives on LGBTQ struggles In 'Mumbai Police', the focus was on the overwhelming guilt and shame a person felt about their own sexual orientation, driven by a desire to conceal it at any cost.
The fear of not being perceived as a true 'man' haunted the character. On the other hand, 'Kaathal' approaches the issue with grace.