Mainstream Malayalam cinema is opening its doors to queer stories, often portraying them with sincerity, though rarely from a queer perspective. While members of the LGBTQI community sometimes view the ‘straight lens’ of these narratives as inadvertently promoting homophobia or failing to do justice to their experiences, Jijo Kuriakose, a talented writer, artist, photographer, and now filmmaker, acknowledges the importance of mainstreaming the queer experience.
“I have been watching mainstream films on homosexuality, like ‘Kaathal: The Core,’ but the queer gaze is missing. We should speak about and for ourselves,” says Jijo Kuriakose. He appreciates ‘Kaathal: The Core’ and does not perceive it as queer-phobic. However, some in the LGBTQI community felt this way, citing instances such as the forced coming-out of Mammootty’s character. Jijo believes that when such movies reach the mainstream, they spark essential discussions.
His 25-minute short film, ‘Velipadu’ (Revelation), zooms in on the experience of being gay within a Kerala context. While numerous international ‘gay instances’ exist, few are relatable for individuals grappling with the acceptance of their identity. The film revolves around Johnny, a deacon conflicted by his sexual identity, demonstrating his journey towards self-acceptance amidst societal and religious pressures. Johnny, in love with a man, finds it challenging to reconcile his feelings as he is engaged to be married to a woman.
Jijo Kuriakose’s choice of protagonist was a natural one. “The story had to be told through somebody, and that person happened to be a student of theology at a seminary. The story is a blend of experiences—my own coming out story and those of people who are still closeted. It will resonate with those in similar situations.”
While Jijo places faith and sexuality at opposing ends of the spectrum, he questions why they must be mutually exclusive. He points to Christian denominations that permit marriage. Using Christian imagery, such as the Last Supper, Jijo powerfully communicates Johnny’s feelings of confusion and perhaps a sense of self-betrayal for not being brave enough to stand up for himself.
The filmmaker evocatively portrays Johnny’s internal struggle.
. Coming out in a largely homophobic society and living with that decision is undeniably tough. Throughout the movie, Jijo also raises questions about polyamory, ending on a note that suggests such considerations.
“’Kaathal: The Core’ initiated a discussion, as did ‘Moothon.’ It is crucial for such stories to be told. There needs to be representation of queer identities, and more such narratives in the mainstream!” Jijo expresses. ‘Velipadu’ is his contribution to this ongoing narrative. “I asked myself what I could do. I wanted to share my lived experience.” He hopes to take the film to various festivals and, if possible, screen it in educational institutions, though he recognizes this will not be an easy feat.
Creating the film was a challenging endeavor for Jijo, who questioned his ability to complete it, given that it was his first attempt at filmmaking. Previously, he made a documentary titled ‘Njan Sanjo,’ which chronicled the experiences of a transman named Sanjo Steve. ‘Velipadu’ features three songs, all penned by Jijo.
The film concludes on a hopeful note, with Johnny informing his fiancée, Jisha, that he cannot marry her. More importantly, Johnny embraces his true self and begins living his truth.
In summary, while mainstream Malayalam cinema has made strides in telling queer stories, it’s crucial that these narratives emerge from a queer perspective. Jijo Kuriakose’s ‘Velipadu’ represents a significant step in this direction. Exploring the conflict between faith and sexuality, self-acceptance, and the potential for polyamorous relationships, ‘Velipadu’ contributes to the vital discourse on queer identities in contemporary cinema. Jijo’s mission to screen the film in various venues underscores his determination to foster understanding and acceptance.
