When Does Art Imitate Life, and When Do We Blame It? (A Kerala Perspective)

Kerala's film industry, known for its nuanced storytelling and social commentary, has recently seen a surge in crime-focused narratives. From gritty thrillers to realistic portrayals of underworld activities, the silver screen is reflecting a darker side of society. This trend, while captivating audiences, has also sparked a familiar debate: are these films glorifying crime and potentially influencing impressionable minds?

The argument is as old as cinema itself. Do violent or morally ambiguous portrayals on screen breed similar behavior in real life? While the debate rages on, it's crucial to address the elephant in the room: personal responsibility.

The Blame Game: Shifting the Focus Away from Ourselves

It's easy to point fingers at filmmakers and blame them for societal ills. After all, visual media has a powerful impact. But is it fair to assume that viewers are mere puppets, blindly mimicking what they see on screen?

In Kerala, a state with a high literacy rate and a strong tradition of critical thinking, this assumption feels particularly flawed. We are not passive recipients of information. We are individuals with the capacity to discern, analyze, and make our own choices.

Art as a Mirror, Not a Manual

Movies, at their best, serve as a reflection of society. They hold a mirror to our realities, exposing the good, the bad, and the ugly. Crime exists, and filmmakers have the right to explore its complexities. To deny them that right is to deny ourselves the opportunity to engage with difficult truths.

Instead of censoring or condemning, perhaps we should focus on fostering a culture of critical engagement. We need to empower individuals to understand the difference between fiction and reality, between entertainment and endorsement.

Examples of Crime-Focused Films:

• "Kannur Squad" (2023):

• This film, based on real-life police investigations, depicts the challenges faced by law enforcement in pursuing criminals across state lines. It highlights the dedication and risks involved in police work.

• This movie gained high critical acclaim, and was also a large box office success.

• "Anjaam Pathiraa" (2020):

• This thriller focuses on a serial killer targeting police officers, showcasing the psychological aspects of crime and the anxieties of those tasked with upholding the law.

• "Drishyam" (2013) and "Drishyam 2" (2021):

• These films explore the lengths to which a family will go to protect itself after an accidental crime. They delve into themes of investigation, manipulation, and the ethical gray areas that can arise.

• "Iratta" (2023):

• This movie deals with the investigation of a police officers death, and uncovers dark parts of the officers past.

Factors Contributing to the Trend:

• Increased Realism:

• Malayalam cinema has a tradition of social realism, and crime films are often used to explore contemporary social issues.

• Audience Demand:

• Thrillers and crime dramas are popular genres, and filmmakers are responding to audience preferences.

• Technical Advancements:

• Improved filmmaking technology allows for more realistic and immersive portrayals of crime.

The Responsibility Factor:

• While films can depict crime, it's crucial to remember that they are works of fiction.

• The vast majority of viewers understand the difference between entertainment and reality.

• Factors such as individual psychology, social environment, and access to resources play a far greater role in determining criminal behavior than exposure to films.

• It is also important to note that many of these films, such as Kannur Squad, show the hard work and dedication of law enforcement, and do not necessarily glorify the criminals.

Personal Responsibility: The Unsung Hero

The onus ultimately lies with each individual to take responsibility for their actions. Movies might depict crime, but they don't force anyone to commit it. The choices we make are our own, shaped by our values, our upbringing, and our understanding of right and wrong.

Let's not underestimate the power of education, family values, and community support in shaping responsible citizens. Instead of worrying about what movies might inspire, let's focus on building a society where individuals are equipped to make informed and ethical choices.

The Kerala Context: A Call for Dialogue

Kerala's film industry has always been known for its progressive and thought-provoking narratives. Let's not stifle that spirit with fear and censorship. Instead, let's engage in open and honest dialogue about the role of cinema in society.

Let's acknowledge the power of storytelling while also emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility. Let's use films as a catalyst for discussion, not as a scapegoat for our own shortcomings.

Ultimately, the responsibility for our actions lies with us, not with the stories we watch. Let's embrace the power of cinema to reflect and challenge, but let's also remember that we are the authors of our own lives.