Kasaba' Director Nithin Renji Panicker Slams Geethu Mohandas for 'Objectifying Women' in 'Toxic' First Look.
Nithin Renji Panicker, director of the Malayalam film “Kasaba“, has lashed out at Geetu Mohandas, actor and director of the upcoming film “Toxic” for celebrating the male gaze and objectifying women in her movie on Wednesday.
The controversy began when the makers of “Toxic” released a sneak peek video featuring actor Yash on his birthday. In the video, Yash makes a stylish entrance, wearing a sharp white suit and fedora, commanding attention. The teaser concludes with a striking sequence where Yash pours alcohol over a bar dancer.
The teaser showcases a lavish party scene with women dancing and is filled with daring and seductive moments with scantily dressed women, and Nithin accused Geetu of “conveniently revising the definition of misogyny”.
“There is no trace of misogyny, there is no ‘male gaze’ that objectifies the female body, and the “male muscle” in ‘Kasaba’ cannot be seen even if you look at it with ink, the visual appearance of politicians…
“SAY IT SAY IT!!” But when he crossed the state, he conveniently corrected the interpretation of ‘their’ misogyny..??? #Toxic,” he said.
Nithin’s accusations are rooted in Geetu’s past criticism of misogynistic scenes in Malayalam films, including a scene from “Kasaba” that objectified women. Geetu had also backed actress Parvathy Thiruvothu’s statement regarding the derogatory scene in the movie.
Geetu Mohandas responded to the controversy by saying that “Toxic” is a story that defies convention and celebrates the extraordinary. She also praised Yash, saying that he is a man with a vision and swagger. The movie teaser has garnered over 50 million views in a day.
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Toxic was announced in December 2023 and is aiming for a release on April 10, 2025. But as per the current reports, they might be postponed.
Also, read| ‘Toxic’ Teaser Out: Yash Shines With An Unmatchable Swag
While the film’s cast hasn’t been announced yet, it’s rumoured to also star Kiara Advani and Nayanthara in lead roles. Geetu Mohandas, who has directed films like Liar’s Dice and The Elder One, is expected to release the movie worldwide this year.
