Kumbalangi Nights: A house open for all

A dialogue in this movie describes the house of four brothers, whose journey we follow, as the place where they abandon cats and dogs. They call it a wasteland. The four brothers Saji, Boney, Franky and Bobby are also abandoned by their mother in that place. These are flawed men living at an unfinished house with the absence of women.

Bobby falls in love with Baby. And they decide to marry. For this to happen, the four brothers have to convince Shammy - Baby’s brother-in-law. Shammy describes himself as a complete man while looking in a mirror. He is obsessed to keep things clean and in order. To a level where it becomes creepy. He makes sure his moustache is clean and symmetrical, and always makes sure he looks smart. Shammy is obsessed with what others would perceive him as. He’s also a control freak. He loves to take control of his family as well. He projects himself too perfect, to hide all his flaws. He doesn’t event like a ball entering his house.

On the other hand, is this unfinished house. A house with no doors. A house which always has room for one more person. The brothers have no job per se and constantly fight with each other. Unlike Shammy, these four brothers don’t hide their vulnerabilities. While Shammy finds a corner to hide his feelings, these brothers can be seen weeping and accepting that they need help. While we laugh at Shammy’s toxic masculinity, we tend to empathise with the brothers when they are at their weakest.

The film is layered. It doesn’t shy away from addressing patriarchy, toxic masculinity and gender roles. The females in the film know when and how to stand up for themselves. There are no heroes in this film. Except for Shammy who calls himself one. A lot can be written about the film. But nothing can match the visual experience of it.

The film also stays rooted to its culture. The first hour of the film establishes the characters, their nature, relationships and dynamics. And because of how rooted the film is, the location and culture all act more like characters than just being elements to please your eyes. Nothing in the film feels out of place or unnecessary. Every character, every scene has something to add.

That’s not it, the nuanced performance of the actors, the soothing music, and stunning visuals makes you want to revisit Kumbalangi Nights every once in a while.