Bishop Joseph Kariyil criticizes ‘Aavesham’ and ‘Manjummel Boys’ for promoting violence and alcohol use, urging a reevaluation of content in Malayalam films.
Bishop Joseph Kariyil has expressed strong disapproval of recent Malayalam films such as ‘Aavesham‘ and ‘Manjummel Boys‘, criticizing them for promoting violence and alcohol abuse. The Catholic priest voiced his concerns during an event organized for children, where he specifically condemned the ‘Illuminati’ song from the Fahadh Faasil-starrer ‘Aavesham’.
In his remarks, Bishop Kariyil highlighted that the Illuminati is a cult that allegedly aims to undermine the values and traditions upheld by the Church, drawing a parallel with the Free Masons. He stated, “‘Aavesham’ sends out a wrong message. The boys bunk their classes and leave the hostel to hang out at the bar. It is a movie that depicts violence and alcohol abuse,” addressing the young audience.
He extended his criticism to ‘Premalu’, noting its portrayal of violence and frequent depictions of alcohol consumption. Regarding ‘Manjummel Boys’, Bishop Kariyil acknowledged that while the film is considered a celebration of friendship, it also consistently shows the characters drinking and puking on their way to the Gunaa Caves. He pointed out that despite the inclusion of disclaimers about the dangers of smoking and drinking, the overall message remains problematic.
Bishop Kariyil’s statements have sparked a discussion about the influence of films on youth and the responsibility of filmmakers. While some argue that movies should be seen purely as sources of entertainment, others believe that the depiction of harmful behaviors in cinema can have a negative impact on young viewers.
The ongoing debate raises questions about the balance between artistic expression and social responsibility, particularly in the context of Malayalam cinema. As filmmakers continue to explore diverse themes, the challenge remains to create content that entertains while also considering its potential influence on audiences.
