Yea, none of the antagonists are "cruel" in the traditional way. But it shows how women are imprisoned in Indian kitchen by passive aggression and how they are manipulated to think that this is normal.
This great movie teaches that Both WOMEN and MEN should do OUTSIDE and HOUSEHOLD works equally. No Gender should bear extra burden. Both need respect and appreciation for their work.
She keeps washing her hands to get the stink of the garbage out of her hands as she had to go in to unclog the kitchen sink with her hands few times a day. She is thoroughly disgusted by the stinky business and the fact that she has to handle this everyday. It felt like I was watching my life on the screen and conveniently enough the main characters were not given names. Brilliant move by the director.
The political event was from 2018-2019. It was about a temple where menstruating women weren't allowed inside as per the tradition for the longest time and the Supreme Court of India gave out a progressive verdict in 2018 which said women should be allowed to enter. The government of Kerala abided by the verdict, said they will facilitate women entry but there was massive protests from conservatives in general and right-wing political parties who tried to capitalise on the situation. In the last scene, you see women sitting in protest with placards that says "Ready to Wait' which meant they are ready to wait till 50 years to enter the temple. I hope this helps.
Just want to clarify here, "ready to wait" means that they are ready to wait until they are 50 years old(hit menopause) to enter the temple which is the traditional rule.
@@greengumgrows 50 years is not a magic number for menopause. I know women who have their periods up to 60 years. Religion is used to subjugate women. Down with religion.
@@PardesiReviews theres a scene in that movie where Nimisha helps suraj up when he falls from his scooter. He pushes her away saying she has violated his vow by touching him when she is menstruating (is not allowed). Next scene he goes to the priest for corrective.priest tells him to eat a ball of cow dung. If that is difficult dip yourself in the temple pond to wash away the "dirt". We of course know which step he took. So you see all these traditions are made by men and twisted and changed according to their whims and fancies.
I did download NEE stream app to my iPad. I live in Colorado. Finished watching this beautiful movie. Whatta movie!! Sound design is amazing. Nimisha is just awesome.
I’m from Kerala and I can relate to how women used to be mistreated and how they spent their entire life in the kitchen, cooking and cleaning. I would say the movie exaggerates the issue a little bit considering how the younger generation of women aren’t really ready to give up on their dreams to peruse a good career and not are entirely confined to the kitchen like the generations before. They also don’t have to go through the whole untouchable phase during their periods anymore as well. Having said that, it is the sad truth that this is still the life of women in many villages in India. Since you asked about the political issues shown in the movie and not seeing anyone explaining that to you, I thought I would. This particular issue happened a couple of years ago when the Supreme Court of India lifted a ban on women entering a particular temple in Kerala. The tradition is that women of menstrual age are not to enter the temple and it was supported by a Kerala State Hight Court law. The Supreme Court ruling caused a widespread protest all across the state where the devotees took the roads and even attacked the people who supported the ruling. The movie shows how a woman who talks in support was treated by the protesters and how women themselves join the protest in the name of protecting their tradition and beliefs. But the whole upheaval helps Nimisha realize that the oppression of women’s basic rights has been prevailing for centuries and there are other women who are trying to fight it. This certainly helped her decide what she decided and act on it. The movie is nothing but absolute brilliance. And I loved your review. ❤️
Sabarimala has its own laws and beliefs. It is a religious institution and doesn’t need to cater to modern/leftist ideologies. You can enter the temple if you are a true devout. If you are a true devout then you will follow its presiding deity’s rules. Women of a certain age cannot enter the temple, please respect it. It has nothing to do with menstruation. Im not even Hindu and even i understand that much.
@@nchl5340 I don't know why people are oversimplifying the mensus part as exaggeration , I got to see many comments . I ve got such a family and it was a struggle to come out of such a family and we lived in city . Sabarimala issue during it's time was an eye opener to me to walk away from all religion or groups that worship a man created deity and rules of man about God that can't accept the same creation of opposite gender .Such a barbaric and predatory belief and culture .
Recently i watched this film.. because of your review I am from Telugu Iam not married.... After this movie After marriage I shouldn't behave like this...
My heart completely broke for her when he told her that he must have feelings for her for that sort of thing - so all this time that she had been staying with him essentially as a servant and he has not one kindness for her?
Thank you so much for reviewing this movie ❤️ Sadly many awesome Malayalam movies get lost in smaller known streaming services like this and doesn't get wider acceptance even if the quality is far better than Bollywood movies
This great movie teaches that Both WOMEN and MEN should do OUTSIDE and HOUSEHOLD works equally. No Gender should bear extra burden. Both need respect and appreciation for their work.
I live in Canada and watched this movie.... this movie is shot in very unique perspective. First of all the movie starts with ‘Thank Science’ instead of ‘Thank God’. The hero heroine don’t have names, not mentioned at least one time in the movie, which shows the thought process of the director behind the scenes. Loved it.
I faced all that's mentioned about isolation during Menstrual cycles and my husband went to Sabarimala every year around my birthday. Couldn't step out of the marriage coz i had two sisters who were waiting to get married as soon as my parents sent me away. It wasn't easy to pull through till 15 years of marriage. Now my husband and I moved out of the 'Radar' of the family and it has been much better. In my case it was a Mother in law who dominated more than my Father in law.
Yes! Periods are seen by some in the Hindu community as untouchable. From my experience, my neighbour was staying at my home for days, bcz there is no permission to enter to their house
Great review Melanie! I absolutely loved where you described the husband as oblivious. It's true of many men in India. I am definitely going to check out the movie. Stay safe!
I have read so many supportive comments here , but I am here to disagree. Even though, it's a small percentage, there are husbands exist who help their better half. When I was small, and father was away from home, my mother struggled a lot to grew up 3 kids.we grew up seeing our mother struggling every time and she use to give a little little jobs to us which made us realise that , a little help also is a great thing. Washing own clothes , plates , cutting vegetables, broom the house , later learned cooking also. It made me independent,and helped me in hostel life. But later when. I got married, everything changed. My wife do everything for me,and don't let me to anything. Later, along with my wife , we moved to my work place, encouraged her to get a job, we shared all our house hold jobs, we have a baby too now . Now she is in a very good position, earning better than me, and am so proud now. She is very happy as well, managing everything very well like my mom .
Mam first night scene is very subtle..awkward..they don't know each other and he being born in patriarchal society, wants the light off showing his lack of confidence and you can see nimisha little surprised because she is confident And no garlic smell,it is fish smell which never goes after repeated washing
Ah! On the fish smell. For me it’s garlic, when I use a lot making pasta sauce. My husband hates fish so I rarely make it. Interesting point on how she had confidence on the first night. That scene was wonderfully sweet and awkward. But when she complains about pain and asks for foreplay later in the film, I wanted to throw something in anger at him.
I don't think this happens only in India, it is seen across the world . The filmmakers got the posters of the movie spot on . We see a lot of families posting pictures on social media where everything seems happy but in the backend, there is lot of struggles going on .
It's is a very good film. But if you were to look at real life of people in these situations, they are trapped in something more sinister than what was depicted in this movie. The family in this movie was "All" bad and the decision to leave was easy. In real life though, the family would be a tiny bit nicer, so it's hard to make that jump. Add in a kid or two and you are stuck in this purgatory till the end of your days.
Hi Melanie, thanks for great review.. A must watch not just for people in Kerala, but for the whole of India. May be I'll brief a political reference in the movie... There was a ruling from Supreme court which allowed women of menstruating age to enter the famous Sabarimala temple, which till then didn't allow them in.This is still a subject of debate in Kerala..Torching motor bike scene is related to that.
Such a relatable movie and that's a good review. What worsens the life of every girl that walks into another house, is the expectation that she should maintain the house, cook exactly how the mother of the house does and the girl must loose her individuality.
Loved the way you said malayalam, suraaj, nimisha so beautifully .. Loved the phrases, boiling point, pressure building up😁 this was exactly what I was feeling at every scene. Cant get rid of this movie from my mind because it's so relatable.. Plight of Indian women!! And it's still the same in some houses in kerala and in India!! 😔
When I watched this film, I thought I could have written this script. I just had to write what I am seeing around me. Although I have to admit Jeo went a little overboard with some of the customs that are no longer prevalent in Kerala culture. There could be 1-2% people who still follow the menstruation related customs but majority have got rid of such things with the last generation (May be 20-30 years back). Jeo showed that as still happening is a bit of untrue for me. But agree with the kitchen and household work part. Most men still think it’s not their job even today. Even this has improved a lot in last 10 years where men are participating much more than before. Yes, we still have a long way to go.
@@ishaemerson5544 looks like I am in a much progressive company than you are! 😃 I am aware these customs used to exist even in my village (pls note village) a couple of decades back. I am pretty sure this is no longer the case in the area. We’ve grown up.
@@nomad4273 that is exactly my point. You must be in a different company, but just because it doesnt happen in your circle, doesnt mean it doesnt happen at all. And it is subjective on the matter that how big your "circle" is. For people seeing and intracting and working in jobs that allows you to meet many social circle, like how I am, your perspective and understanding will be different. So, you cannot base your opinion on a few people that you know, when it comes to a global issue like this. Study more and then talk.
This great movie teaches that Both WOMEN and MEN should do OUTSIDE and HOUSEHOLD works equally. No Gender should bear extra burden. Both need respect and appreciation for their work.
I believe in equality...having said that, after marriage even the husband has to leave his parents just like his wife has, have to include mother’s name too in their children’s, women shouldn’t be burdened to wear this (mangalsutra) and that , share household and children’s responsibilities equally, and so on, house guests being served by women, the particulars are endless, .......If men go out for work then women can do household chores but it shouldn’t be like that’s understood and taken for granted.....I’m a homemaker and do household chores not because I’m a woman but since I’m at home I voluntarily do them...it should be vice versa too that if a woman solely goes out and works then the man has to shoulder household responsibilities.....better if both work outside then both should do everything equally....
I know the feeling of wanting to discuss this with someone but not having anyone in your life who has seen this too. I finally just put a miniscule portion of my thoughts in an Instagram post and all my trigger points in its hashtags. Let me know if you are interested and I will point you to it.
This is an absolutely stunning film!! I am aghast that such things are even happening. I have never seen a women being treated like this during their menstruation. The cooking thing happens all the time. But the mensturation thing, at least I thought it was the thing of the past!!
RR Your Brahmin friend could be an exception. You said it happens in many families. Totally wrong. In the past yes these things were there in some families. But it no longer exists among Hindus like the film is trying to say. This is just a marxist propaganda movie to harass Nair community.
Your review is great. But I understand how you might not be able to relate to a few aspects of the movie. Like the Sabarimala issue and the way woman are treated during menstruals in India. Maybe you can look into the Sabarimala issue. The movie is a very bold attempt.
Spoiler alert I wish they portrayed the girl where she moved on with a man too the same way they portrayed the guy. They made her look like she was a spinster.. even if you heard a clapping in the background or a guy put his hand on her shoulder something.. otherwise great movie!
I liked the ending, the point was that she didn't need a man in her life to be happy, like how most society says you need a man in your life blah blah. On the other side, the guy couldn't even make a cup of tea for himself and got married again, showing his dependence and ungrateful behavior.
@@potatoface1041 I can agree with she was happy, but so was he with being dependent on the next best thing. If anything, I think the second wife had more jewelry so probably got even a bigger dowry.
Nice work. Must agree to all the observations made by you over this movie. Appreciate the great opinion on this movie, which literally a slap on the patriarchal mindset of Indian Society. There are lot of people who no longer follow this culture but further improvements are to be done by society.
The scene where they show the tv news and mention Facebook... That is related to the 2018 Supreme Court of India judgment on the entry of women in the Sabarimala Shrine... And more so Supreme Court's judgement on the plight on women in India and women being treated like untouchables while they are menstruating.
I saw 1983 before I had my UA-cam channel. Here’s what I wrote back then: pardesireviews.com/2016/07/03/1983-a-sweet-cricket-sports-drama-starring-nivin-pauly/
Women who went through this can easily relate this... especially in Indian culture...but I think in western people can't realize the real emotion...you also
Daniya while I have not lived it, I can realize her emotions because she portrayed them so well, and because the script is so well written. Believe me - home jail is a perfect way to put it
👌 great review.There was huge problems in Kerala last year regarding Sabarimala temple issue.i will try to give some information-it is a temple inside a forest of Kerala were the god Ayyappa(which is a local diety only known to Kerala) is worshipped.That diety is believed to be celibate and woman other than small girls or age-old ladies were not visiting that temple.But there were incidents where other woman also entered.that was not noticed and it was not a problem for devotees also.But some women asked supreme court to give permission to visit that temple and court asked information to Kerala left government that what is this ritual and stuff and they gave the statement that it is based on menstruation and it should be changed.since temples are ruled by govt they have full authority.But many conservative and other people claimed that it is not related to menstruation and it is because the god is celibate and there is a story that whenever there is no first time visiters to that temple the god will marry another goddess whose temple is near there and after that women too can enter.And there was huge problem there because those who go to that temple too want to be celibate and should not touch woman.so when woman enters it will become impossible.some ultra right people came there and there was problem.After that a Muslim woman tried to enter that temple.there was rumours that she is carrying sanitary napkins in a bag that is supposed to carry to the temple which usually contains coconut and ghee.That woman was also contraversial bcz she was posted a photo and some lines which many claimed abusing god saying he is anti menstruation and stuff.At last some activists entered that temple.This is very sensitive issue .U may be wondering of all these but this is not a developed country.So the film has tried to express its politics without any hesitation.that is great.
My in laws did not want me to use the dishwasher coz they felt it didn’t clean as well as doing it by hand.. and they didn’t want me wearing gloves as well..
Tell them to sod off - dishwashers are much better these days and more economical than hand washing - that’s just facts and hand washing without gloves will damage your hands.
Melanie, hats off to you! So the issue on the TV was surrounding a temple called Sabrimala, to which Suraj and his dad are going. Women between the age of 8/9 to 60 are not allowed, as women in that age group menstruate. There is about 40 days of penance/celibacy before they go, which is why the men wear black. So the political issue is around women not being allowed to that very temple, which was a huge issue in 2018/19 I liked the movie, but As someone familiar with the culture, I expected more of a revolution, as the build up was very strong. Some of it was unexpected for sure. I personally thought the mother would come back and intervene etc - but none of that happened. I was also disappointed that the man went scot-free, marrying again and putting another woman through the same cycle. In the real world that would happen and the woman is most likely to get termed as the troublemaker. One of the scenes that resonated most with me is where Nimisha says she would like foreplay and Suraj makes a comment alluding that she is not attractive enough for him to indulge. That is so true of so many relationships, where a man's wish only commands.
Melanie, if you havent watched - I would recommend you watch Astitva. It is in hindi and marathi I think. Tabu is the main protagonist and it came out in 2000. The name astitva itself means "identity" or "existence" and the movie is about a woman breaking free.
Divya that scene where she gets up the courage to tell him that sex hurts has also really stayed with me, and he just completely reacted with bruised male ego, and no consideration of her. I don't know what I expected as a resolution -- maybe I expected that they would reconcile, and in the end I'm glad she broke completely free.
Melanie, the other thing that stayed with me is he is not a bad guy. He is loving to start with, but somewhere he takes her for granted, probably because that is what he has seen around. Also where he says, now I have no face in front of my father, was so cringeworthy. I think Suraj's character at the end of the day is selfish, which is why he says what he says in the last scene. (Don't want to give more away to those who haven't watched the movie!)
I agree. Suraj’s character starts as a nice guy but he falls into his father’s pattern. That whole bring me my frickin’ toothbrush thing nearly sent me around the bend. Kudos to Suraj for playing such a flawed character.
@@PardesiReviews we saw another Suraj movie today.. vikrithi. Not sure if you have reviewed it... I am bowled by his acting here too.he plays a mute guy. It is on Netflix if you haven't watched it
Hi mam iam very happy to see this review 💓 because im watching you from Kerala. Here all the discussions about this movie everywhere. You Please watch Shortfilim freedom @midnight directed by RJ Shaan. And put a review in that subject. Im waiting 🙏😍
@@ajaydas1770 That's what I'm conveying my friend... That's the beauty of nature.. unity in diversity... There's no meaning in arguing for equality when we believe in diversity.. but few things like the ones shown in the movie where the women's voice is unheard by the male dominated society shd be changed.. but that must not disturb the beauty of diversity and it's nature of existance.
Melanie ma'am.. bit late to the discussion... I have a little long analysis and thoughts that I posted else were... Should I share it here as well or rather dm you? 😁
Good analysis, now we all know that Suraj's character is a Arrogant Idiot but let me be the devil's advocate here, what if I say there is a another (hidden) message or lesson in this movie. Do you remember there is scene in this movie where Nimisha's character say to Suraj's character that "she is not happy with their sex life" & Suraj's need to learn how to do "IT" correctly without causing her pain ??? So my question is if they had a good sex life will she leave him ? or still give it a chance besides his & his father's 1930s selfish passive thinking & behavior ??? Also would you agree with me if I say that Nimisha's character don't have or don't use any of "Women's Charms & Tricks" to change her husband's thinking & behavior ???
Women’s charms and tricks??? My dude, it is 2021. I do think his disregard for her pain not to mention pleasure in their sex life is just a symptom and example of how he views her feelings in every other part of their marriage.
@@PardesiReviews "it's 2021" what's that, a new one ?😂 now don't get mad at me, I like women's charms and tricks, without them our(men) life will be boring.😂 Also I agree with your point 100%.
Yea, none of the antagonists are "cruel" in the traditional way. But it shows how women are imprisoned in Indian kitchen by passive aggression and how they are manipulated to think that this is normal.
Exactly
This great movie teaches that Both WOMEN and MEN should do OUTSIDE and HOUSEHOLD works equally. No Gender should bear extra burden. Both need respect and appreciation for their work.
Well said
This cooking was not supposed to make you hungry. It supposed to make you cry.
It did both. I paused pretty early on.
You pronounced "malayalam" in a very good good way,even North Indian can't match it.
Omg! That’s a real compliment! Don’t go watching one of my videos from three years ago when I kept saying Malayalam all wrong
True 😁👍❤️
@@PardesiReviews It's okay
Oyich 🙄
She keeps washing her hands to get the stink of the garbage out of her hands as she had to go in to unclog the kitchen sink with her hands few times a day. She is thoroughly disgusted by the stinky business and the fact that she has to handle this everyday. It felt like I was watching my life on the screen and conveniently enough the main characters were not given names. Brilliant move by the director.
Totally!!
The political event was from 2018-2019. It was about a temple where menstruating women weren't allowed inside as per the tradition for the longest time and the Supreme Court of India gave out a progressive verdict in 2018 which said women should be allowed to enter. The government of Kerala abided by the verdict, said they will facilitate women entry but there was massive protests from conservatives in general and right-wing political parties who tried to capitalise on the situation. In the last scene, you see women sitting in protest with placards that says "Ready to Wait' which meant they are ready to wait till 50 years to enter the temple. I hope this helps.
Siddharth, thank you so much for that background information!
After that not many have gone to Sabarimala since that verdict! Covid won over all. Now the oldies of both genders are discouraged going.
Just want to clarify here, "ready to wait" means that they are ready to wait until they are 50 years old(hit menopause) to enter the temple which is the traditional rule.
@@greengumgrows 50 years is not a magic number for menopause. I know women who have their periods up to 60 years. Religion is used to subjugate women. Down with religion.
@@PardesiReviews theres a scene in that movie where Nimisha helps suraj up when he falls from his scooter. He pushes her away saying she has violated his vow by touching him when she is menstruating (is not allowed). Next scene he goes to the priest for corrective.priest tells him to eat a ball of cow dung. If that is difficult dip yourself in the temple pond to wash away the "dirt". We of course know which step he took. So you see all these traditions are made by men and twisted and changed according to their whims and fancies.
I did download NEE stream app to my iPad. I live in Colorado. Finished watching this beautiful movie. Whatta movie!! Sound design is amazing. Nimisha is just awesome.
How much does it cost???
@@elfew7127 if you pay 2$ you can watch this movie for 5 days in 3 devices.3$ is for monthly subscription for the platform.
Totally appreciate you ma'am. You are way too dedicated. I didn't even see that coming. Your uploads are way faster than the speed of light 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks! The time change in Chicago meant I could watch it when it was the middle of the night in India.
I’m from Kerala and I can relate to how women used to be mistreated and how they spent their entire life in the kitchen, cooking and cleaning. I would say the movie exaggerates the issue a little bit considering how the younger generation of women aren’t really ready to give up on their dreams to peruse a good career and not are entirely confined to the kitchen like the generations before. They also don’t have to go through the whole untouchable phase during their periods anymore as well. Having said that, it is the sad truth that this is still the life of women in many villages in India.
Since you asked about the political issues shown in the movie and not seeing anyone explaining that to you, I thought I would. This particular issue happened a couple of years ago when the Supreme Court of India lifted a ban on women entering a particular temple in Kerala. The tradition is that women of menstrual age are not to enter the temple and it was supported by a Kerala State Hight Court law. The Supreme Court ruling caused a widespread protest all across the state where the devotees took the roads and even attacked the people who supported the ruling. The movie shows how a woman who talks in support was treated by the protesters and how women themselves join the protest in the name of protecting their tradition and beliefs. But the whole upheaval helps Nimisha realize that the oppression of women’s basic rights has been prevailing for centuries and there are other women who are trying to fight it. This certainly helped her decide what she decided and act on it. The movie is nothing but absolute brilliance. And I loved your review. ❤️
It still happens in many conservative and "modern-but-traditional" homes in Kerala (and India)
Sabarimala has its own laws and beliefs. It is a religious institution and doesn’t need to cater to modern/leftist ideologies. You can enter the temple if you are a true devout. If you are a true devout then you will follow its presiding deity’s rules. Women of a certain age cannot enter the temple, please respect it. It has nothing to do with menstruation. Im not even Hindu and even i understand that much.
It still happens in Kerala...
@@nchl5340 I don't know why people are oversimplifying the mensus part as exaggeration , I got to see many comments . I ve got such a family and it was a struggle to come out of such a family and we lived in city . Sabarimala issue during it's time was an eye opener to me to walk away from all religion or groups that worship a man created deity and rules of man about God that can't accept the same creation of opposite gender .Such a barbaric and predatory belief and culture .
Recently i watched this film.. because of your review
I am from Telugu
Iam not married....
After this movie
After marriage
I shouldn't behave like this...
Good for you!
Pelase my Recommend Telugu film's
Vedam (allu arjun)
Gamyam
Kanche (varun thej)
@@2009tpsarathi recently watched gamyam it was fantastic especially the climax bought me into tears as well as comedy is good too
@@walterwhite5249
Nice
@@2009tpsarathi i have not watched the above movies but Telegu movies have a set plot. Nothing great@
An uncomfortable look into every Indian Kitchen. Really loved the movie.
You can see his lack of confidence again when she hints fore play..he attacks her..like any men
Yes! What a scene. He felt threatened so he lashed out.
My heart completely broke for her when he told her that he must have feelings for her for that sort of thing - so all this time that she had been staying with him essentially as a servant and he has not one kindness for her?
You can see every single detailing of patriarchy in this film. Even mansplaining.
Ohhhhh the mansplaining!
Thank you so much for reviewing this movie ❤️ Sadly many awesome Malayalam movies get lost in smaller known streaming services like this and doesn't get wider acceptance even if the quality is far better than Bollywood movies
I am glad that they decided to relapse this on streaming...and nee stream had an option where we can just but it for 5 days!! I loved it!!🤩
Neestream can be a good one if we use them, it was great to have neeStream when others rejected to release the movie. Kudos to NeeStream..
It's not movie. It's real life. What I see daily. Everyone in kerala I'm atleast sure about that. Maybe even more worse.😒🥺
Not only in Kerala, in all Indian kitchen, which mentioned in the title itself,can be more worse.
This great movie teaches that Both WOMEN and MEN should do OUTSIDE and HOUSEHOLD works equally. No Gender should bear extra burden. Both need respect and appreciation for their work.
Not only on Kerala .... it’s even worse when we go to north dude ....
@@aishajohn3658 yeah. 🥺🥺
@@swaroop2518 absolutely right. 💯
Malayalam film always differ from the rest of Indian movies, it will surprise you and always challenge the audience with the endings.
I live in Canada and watched this movie.... this movie is shot in very unique perspective. First of all the movie starts with ‘Thank Science’ instead of ‘Thank God’. The hero heroine don’t have names, not mentioned at least one time in the movie, which shows the thought process of the director behind the scenes. Loved it.
Two of the producers live in Alberta, Canada! Visuhn Rajan & Dijo Augustine
@@PardesiReviews good to know :)
I will be watching more Malayalam movies going forward
This was an intresting movie...atlast somebody recognized the importance of gender equality which should begin at home
I faced all that's mentioned about isolation during Menstrual cycles and my husband went to Sabarimala every year around my birthday. Couldn't step out of the marriage coz i had two sisters who were waiting to get married as soon as my parents sent me away. It wasn't easy to pull through till 15 years of marriage. Now my husband and I moved out of the 'Radar' of the family and it has been much better. In my case it was a Mother in law who dominated more than my Father in law.
Thank you for sharing your difficult experiences. I’m glad you are in a better place now!
Yes! Periods are seen by some in the Hindu community as untouchable. From my experience, my neighbour was staying at my home for days, bcz there is no permission to enter to their house
Glad u guys admitted her in ... 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Great review Melanie! I absolutely loved where you described the husband as oblivious. It's true of many men in India. I am definitely going to check out the movie. Stay safe!
I have seen many real things in this movie. This movie is an eye opener in many aspects!
Yes
I have read so many supportive comments here , but I am here to disagree. Even though, it's a small percentage, there are husbands exist who help their better half. When I was small, and father was away from home, my mother struggled a lot to grew up 3 kids.we grew up seeing our mother struggling every time and she use to give a little little jobs to us which made us realise that , a little help also is a great thing. Washing own clothes , plates , cutting vegetables, broom the house , later learned cooking also. It made me independent,and helped me in hostel life. But later when. I got married, everything changed. My wife do everything for me,and don't let me to anything. Later, along with my wife , we moved to my work place, encouraged her to get a job, we shared all our house hold jobs, we have a baby too now . Now she is in a very good position, earning better than me, and am so proud now. She is very happy as well, managing everything very well like my mom .
Your wife is lucky to have you - many men will not be like this -
But parents needs to start this young with the children
This is Oscar material! As usual, I enjoyed your review.
I thought this was gonna be a Trailer reaction. I had no idea the film's out
Time change worked in my favor to see it while India was sleeping!
after 25 years of marriage, there is something in it for me too!
Amazing film! One of the best films I've seen in recent times.
This film should be well appreciated thank you for making review of this film
മലയായികൾ ഉണ്ടോ?
I liked this movie, It changed my whole perspective of cooking.
Mam first night scene is very subtle..awkward..they don't know each other and he being born in patriarchal society, wants the light off showing his lack of confidence and you can see nimisha little surprised because she is confident
And no garlic smell,it is fish smell which never goes after repeated washing
Ah! On the fish smell. For me it’s garlic, when I use a lot making pasta sauce. My husband hates fish so I rarely make it.
Interesting point on how she had confidence on the first night. That scene was wonderfully sweet and awkward. But when she complains about pain and asks for foreplay later in the film, I wanted to throw something in anger at him.
I don't think this happens only in India, it is seen across the world .
The filmmakers got the posters of the movie spot on . We see a lot of families posting pictures on social media where everything seems happy but in the backend, there is lot of struggles going on .
You can watch this movie on Amazon Prime Video.
I’m so glad it’s available for more people to see this wonderful film.
It's not just a movie. But real happenings in our society. They don't even realise what they are doing is wrong.
This movie was a tight slap on my face!!!!
I can’t tell if you’re a man or a woman. Just curious because of your comment!
@@PardesiReviews as per name goes its man
I find it so nice that men are not defending their actions when they watch the movie.. shows that people are indeed capable of change 😀
It's is a very good film. But if you were to look at real life of people in these situations, they are trapped in something more sinister than what was depicted in this movie. The family in this movie was "All" bad and the decision to leave was easy. In real life though, the family would be a tiny bit nicer, so it's hard to make that jump. Add in a kid or two and you are stuck in this purgatory till the end of your days.
Very good points.
Hi Melanie, thanks for great review..
A must watch not just for people in Kerala, but for the whole of India.
May be I'll brief a political reference in the movie... There was a ruling from Supreme court which allowed women of menstruating age to enter the famous Sabarimala temple, which till then didn't allow them in.This is still a subject of debate in Kerala..Torching motor bike scene is related to that.
U saw it....i didnt even know it released...let me watch ur review...ive been waiting for this review..lemme checks
The time change works in my favor for some movie releases!
Such a relatable movie and that's a good review. What worsens the life of every girl that walks into another house, is the expectation that she should maintain the house, cook exactly how the mother of the house does and the girl must loose her individuality.
Loved the way you said malayalam, suraaj, nimisha so beautifully ..
Loved the phrases, boiling point, pressure building up😁 this was exactly what I was feeling at every scene. Cant get rid of this movie from my mind because it's so relatable.. Plight of Indian women!! And it's still the same in some houses in kerala and in India!! 😔
Especially that scene I mentioned with the family pictures and the sounds of hissing steam!
When I watched this film, I thought I could have written this script. I just had to write what I am seeing around me. Although I have to admit Jeo went a little overboard with some of the customs that are no longer prevalent in Kerala culture. There could be 1-2% people who still follow the menstruation related customs but majority have got rid of such things with the last generation (May be 20-30 years back). Jeo showed that as still happening is a bit of untrue for me. But agree with the kitchen and household work part. Most men still think it’s not their job even today. Even this has improved a lot in last 10 years where men are participating much more than before. Yes, we still have a long way to go.
I think that was part of her surprise as a bride - she wasn’t expecting the household to be that rigid
I still know many families that follow these customs. Otherwise, the whole impure mesus thing would not come up. Get your facts checked first.
@@ishaemerson5544 looks like I am in a much progressive company than you are! 😃 I am aware these customs used to exist even in my village (pls note village) a couple of decades back. I am pretty sure this is no longer the case in the area. We’ve grown up.
@@PardesiReviews yes, that’s a good explanation.
@@nomad4273 that is exactly my point. You must be in a different company, but just because it doesnt happen in your circle, doesnt mean it doesnt happen at all. And it is subjective on the matter that how big your "circle" is. For people seeing and intracting and working in jobs that allows you to meet many social circle, like how I am, your perspective and understanding will be different. So, you cannot base your opinion on a few people that you know, when it comes to a global issue like this. Study more and then talk.
'Android kunjappan ' -suraj and soubin movie. Malayalam. 2019.
That was a beautiful film
This great movie teaches that Both WOMEN and MEN should do OUTSIDE and HOUSEHOLD works equally. No Gender should bear extra burden. Both need respect and appreciation for their work.
I believe in equality...having said that, after marriage even the husband has to leave his parents just like his wife has, have to include mother’s name too in their children’s, women shouldn’t be burdened to wear this (mangalsutra) and that , share household and children’s responsibilities equally, and so on, house guests being served by women, the particulars are endless, .......If men go out for work then women can do household chores but it shouldn’t be like that’s understood and taken for granted.....I’m a homemaker and do household chores not because I’m a woman but since I’m at home I voluntarily do them...it should be vice versa too that if a woman solely goes out and works then the man has to shoulder household responsibilities.....better if both work outside then both should do everything equally....
Yes!
I know the feeling of wanting to discuss this with someone but not having anyone in your life who has seen this too. I finally just put a miniscule portion of my thoughts in an Instagram post and all my trigger points in its hashtags. Let me know if you are interested and I will point you to it.
Thanks science , a neo start in indian cinemas
Yes I noted that at the beginning!!
This is an absolutely stunning film!! I am aghast that such things are even happening. I have never seen a women being treated like this during their menstruation. The cooking thing happens all the time. But the mensturation thing, at least I thought it was the thing of the past!!
That part blew my mind too.
No it is happening in many families in Kerala till now. At least I know it's happening in my friend's house.
@@babereni Don't spread lies. May be in Muslim families but not in Hindu families.
@@SurajInd89 Dude my friend is a brahmin from kozhikkode. Why can't you digest the reality?
RR Your Brahmin friend could be an exception. You said it happens in many families. Totally wrong. In the past yes these things were there in some families. But it no longer exists among Hindus like the film is trying to say. This is just a marxist propaganda movie to harass Nair community.
Your review is great. But I understand how you might not be able to relate to a few aspects of the movie. Like the Sabarimala issue and the way woman are treated during menstruals in India. Maybe you can look into the Sabarimala issue. The movie is a very bold attempt.
Saw the movie on Amazon. A good movie which all indian men should watch..... Enjoyed the movie!!!!
I’m glad it came to a bigger streaming platform so a wider audience can see it!
Good review. Many don't know that narrating thd story is not review. Thank you
Spoiler alert
I wish they portrayed the girl where she moved on with a man too the same way they portrayed the guy. They made her look like she was a spinster.. even if you heard a clapping in the background or a guy put his hand on her shoulder something.. otherwise great movie!
I agree with you. How about a man bringing her tiffin lunch?
I liked the ending, the point was that she didn't need a man in her life to be happy, like how most society says you need a man in your life blah blah. On the other side, the guy couldn't even make a cup of tea for himself and got married again, showing his dependence and ungrateful behavior.
@@potatoface1041 I can agree with she was happy, but so was he with being dependent on the next best thing. If anything, I think the second wife had more jewelry so probably got even a bigger dowry.
This is the so called Normal Indian wife🙄
Nice work. Must agree to all the observations made by you over this movie. Appreciate the great opinion on this movie, which literally a slap on the patriarchal mindset of Indian Society. There are lot of people who no longer follow this culture but further improvements are to be done by society.
Absolutely.
Well put
The scene where they show the tv news and mention Facebook... That is related to the 2018 Supreme Court of India judgment on the entry of women in the Sabarimala Shrine... And more so Supreme Court's judgement on the plight on women in India and women being treated like untouchables while they are menstruating.
I learned about that after seeing the film. It was a clever way to place the film in that time
Just wondering... Have you watched the film 1983? Because I would love ur reaction to that!
I saw 1983 before I had my UA-cam channel. Here’s what I wrote back then:
pardesireviews.com/2016/07/03/1983-a-sweet-cricket-sports-drama-starring-nivin-pauly/
@Pardesi Thank you so much ur so sweet!
Love from Kerala ❤️
❤️ from Chicago!
Women who went through this can easily relate this... especially in Indian culture...but I think in western people can't realize the real emotion...you also
This film is not only about the performance...it shows how our society politely make women to be in home jail..
Daniya while I have not lived it, I can realize her emotions because she portrayed them so well, and because the script is so well written. Believe me - home jail is a perfect way to put it
Super review mam. Really loved the film. 👌👌👌👌
On Amazon Prime now! It was a slow pressure cooker but man the whistle was worth it!
Waiting for your master review mam. Noy sure whether the country you reside in have cinemas opened
Unfortunately, theaters are closed here due to Covid
Hi Pardesi review, can you review freedom at midnight
👌 great review.There was huge problems in Kerala last year regarding Sabarimala temple issue.i will try to give some information-it is a temple inside a forest of Kerala were the god Ayyappa(which is a local diety only known to Kerala) is worshipped.That diety is believed to be celibate and woman other than small girls or age-old ladies were not visiting that temple.But there were incidents where other woman also entered.that was not noticed and it was not a problem for devotees also.But some women asked supreme court to give permission to visit that temple and court asked information to Kerala left government that what is this ritual and stuff and they gave the statement that it is based on menstruation and it should be changed.since temples are ruled by govt they have full authority.But many conservative and other people claimed that it is not related to menstruation and it is because the god is celibate and there is a story that whenever there is no first time visiters to that temple the god will marry another goddess whose temple is near there and after that women too can enter.And there was huge problem there because those who go to that temple too want to be celibate and should not touch woman.so when woman enters it will become impossible.some ultra right people came there and there was problem.After that a Muslim woman tried to enter that temple.there was rumours that she is carrying sanitary napkins in a bag that is supposed to carry to the temple which usually contains coconut and ghee.That woman was also contraversial bcz she was posted a photo and some lines which many claimed abusing god saying he is anti menstruation and stuff.At last some activists entered that temple.This is very sensitive issue .U may be wondering of all these but this is not a developed country.So the film has tried to express its politics without any hesitation.that is great.
My in laws did not want me to use the dishwasher coz they felt it didn’t clean as well as doing it by hand.. and they didn’t want me wearing gloves as well..
Tell them to sod off - dishwashers are much better these days and more economical than hand washing - that’s just facts and hand washing without gloves will damage your hands.
Without ur review this movie is not done yet. Please spread this movie in ur place
I have been. Wonderful film
Also... Do check out the newly released Jayasurya's movie trailer "VELLAM"
In addition to the usual culprits, I was so angry with her mother as well. She was so unsupportive of her daughter,she deserved a slap too
It shows women also maintain the patriarchy
@@PardesiReviews men impose and women safeguard, absolutely abysmal
thanks for mentioning neestream , same issue happened for me, should be in an other leading stream.
Amazon and Netflix turned it down. Watch my interview with the producers to hear about it: ua-cam.com/video/mAwo8dKEY10/v-deo.html
Hit like if it reminded you of your mom😩
Used to watch most of your review's , Thumps up for your reviews. haven't yet seen the movie , will watch it soon after your energetic review.
Welcome back Abdul! Hope you enjoy the film
Nice review. Sounds like something I'd like to watch. India has as many new streaming platforms as new films nowadays lol!
Relatable to the core for all the generations prior as well..
Yes
Melanie, hats off to you! So the issue on the TV was surrounding a temple called Sabrimala, to which Suraj and his dad are going. Women between the age of 8/9 to 60 are not allowed, as women in that age group menstruate. There is about 40 days of penance/celibacy before they go, which is why the men wear black. So the political issue is around women not being allowed to that very temple, which was a huge issue in 2018/19
I liked the movie, but As someone familiar with the culture, I expected more of a revolution, as the build up was very strong. Some of it was unexpected for sure. I personally thought the mother would come back and intervene etc - but none of that happened. I was also disappointed that the man went scot-free, marrying again and putting another woman through the same cycle. In the real world that would happen and the woman is most likely to get termed as the troublemaker.
One of the scenes that resonated most with me is where Nimisha says she would like foreplay and Suraj makes a comment alluding that she is not attractive enough for him to indulge. That is so true of so many relationships, where a man's wish only commands.
Melanie, if you havent watched - I would recommend you watch Astitva. It is in hindi and marathi I think. Tabu is the main protagonist and it came out in 2000. The name astitva itself means "identity" or "existence" and the movie is about a woman breaking free.
Divya that scene where she gets up the courage to tell him that sex hurts has also really stayed with me, and he just completely reacted with bruised male ego, and no consideration of her. I don't know what I expected as a resolution -- maybe I expected that they would reconcile, and in the end I'm glad she broke completely free.
Melanie, the other thing that stayed with me is he is not a bad guy. He is loving to start with, but somewhere he takes her for granted, probably because that is what he has seen around. Also where he says, now I have no face in front of my father, was so cringeworthy. I think Suraj's character at the end of the day is selfish, which is why he says what he says in the last scene. (Don't want to give more away to those who haven't watched the movie!)
I agree. Suraj’s character starts as a nice guy but he falls into his father’s pattern. That whole bring me my frickin’ toothbrush thing nearly sent me around the bend. Kudos to Suraj for playing such a flawed character.
@@PardesiReviews we saw another Suraj movie today.. vikrithi. Not sure if you have reviewed it... I am bowled by his acting here too.he plays a mute guy. It is on Netflix if you haven't watched it
Hi mam iam very happy to see this review 💓 because im watching you from Kerala. Here all the discussions about this movie everywhere. You Please watch Shortfilim freedom @midnight directed by RJ Shaan. And put a review in that subject. Im waiting 🙏😍
I’m editing a discussion with two of the producers of this film right now. Look for it soon!
Amazon prime bought this masterpiece. 😀
The great indian FILM
Very nice detailed review
Sometimes I wish if you only review Malayalam movies :)
Welllllll, I will admit they are some of the best
the only reviewer who got hungry .., lol
Well at the beginning!!
Where can I watch it?
Neestream. New OTT
Absolutely amazing movie
Agree!
Please review Kannada trailer of Hero. It is fantastic
The movie was shot during lockdown in a farm house.
I am having mixed feelings after watching the movie.. I am a devotee, but after all im a human being too..☹️☹️☹️
God sees everyone equally. He is the creator of all genders. All inequalities that we practice are man-made.
@@ajaydas1770 agreed to some extent... But isn't god too unequal when he created Man and Woman.
@@foodishta did god create all men equally?
@@foodishta Even we Pray to hundreds of Gods.Both Genders.Go to different temples/churches/mosque.Can you tell me which among those Gods is better?
@@ajaydas1770 That's what I'm conveying my friend... That's the beauty of nature.. unity in diversity... There's no meaning in arguing for equality when we believe in diversity.. but few things like the ones shown in the movie where the women's voice is unheard by the male dominated society shd be changed.. but that must not disturb the beauty of diversity and it's nature of existance.
That is how it is for a decent percent of women still
React to the prieast malayalam movie teaser staring mammootty
Good review
You are best in how to pronounce "Malayalam".
Learned the hard way! Don’t watch my videos from three years ago. Makes me cringe!
@@PardesiReviews thus far, i never been abstended to watch any malayalam episodes. you are so familiar to me.
loved the movie..
Me too
Melanie ma'am.. bit late to the discussion... I have a little long analysis and thoughts that I posted else were... Should I share it here as well or rather dm you? 😁
Vishnu, you are not late to the discussion. If you like you can always email me at askpardesi@gmail.com or DM me on twitter @pardesiYT
@@PardesiReviews Thanks ma'am. I will mail you..:)
Review middle class melodies
React to vakeel saab teaser from pawan kalyan. He is back after 3 years. Full feast for us fans 🔥🔥
Please suggest quality content rather than rubbish.
@@babereni why do you care🤷
why your calling it rubbish call it garbage
Perfect ❤🤍👍
Mam check new malayalam movie " vellam" Trailer, pls react
Loved your review great job mam🙏
Thanks!!
Please react Malayalam movie teaser 'KALA'🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Please react to Hero kannada trailer
Terrific movie...
♥️🔥
Good analysis, now we all know that Suraj's character is a Arrogant Idiot but let me be the devil's advocate here, what if I say there is a another (hidden) message or lesson in this movie. Do you remember there is scene in this movie where Nimisha's character say to Suraj's character that "she is not happy with their sex life" & Suraj's need to learn how to do "IT" correctly without causing her pain ??? So my question is if they had a good sex life will she leave him ? or still give it a chance besides his & his father's 1930s selfish passive thinking & behavior ???
Also would you agree with me if I say that Nimisha's character don't have or don't use any of "Women's Charms & Tricks" to change her husband's thinking & behavior ???
Women’s charms and tricks??? My dude, it is 2021.
I do think his disregard for her pain not to mention pleasure in their sex life is just a symptom and example of how he views her feelings in every other part of their marriage.
@@PardesiReviews "it's 2021" what's that, a new one ?😂 now don't get mad at me, I like women's charms and tricks, without them our(men) life will be boring.😂
Also I agree with your point 100%.
Check "Freedom @ Midnight | Malayalam Short Film" it's available on youtube
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