Unveiling Toxic Masculinity: The Darkside of Relationships in Select Malayalam Films

ABSTRACT This research paper exploring toxic masculinity through the lens of Malayalam cinema, focusing on the films ‘Uyare’ and ‘The Great Indian Kitchen’. From my perspective, toxic masculinity refers to a socially constructed ideal that valorises aggression, emotional suppression, and dominance as markers of manhood, ultimately causing harm not only to women but also to men who are pressured to conform to these narrow standards. This study employs a qualitative approach, analysing narrative structures, dialogue, and visual symbolism to reveal how these films critique and reflect entrenched patriarchal norms. In Uyare, the narrative challenges traditional gender roles by highlighting the plight of an acid attack survivor, whose journey underscores the damaging effects of societal expectations and toxic male behaviours. In contrast, The Great Indian Kitchen presents a stark portrayal of domesticity, where the everyday environment becomes a battleground for patriarchal control. Here, the persistent, mythical attitudes of male characters are juxtaposed with subtle acts of female resistance, revealing the internal contradictions of toxic masculinity within the household. Special attention is paid to the representation of “healthy” masculinity through Todino's character, whose nuanced portrayal provides an alternative to hegemonic norms. This research not only dissects the cinematic techniques employed to manifest these themes but also reflects on the broader Cultural implications for gender dynamics in contemporary Indian society. By comparing these films, the paper contributes to ongoing debates about gender, power, and the possibility of alternative masculinities that can challenge and redefine hegemonic norms. Keywords: Toxic Masculinity, Hegemonic Masculinity, Malayalam Cinema, Uyare, The Great Indian Kitchen, Gender Violence, Patriarchal Control, Cinematic Narrative.