Moothon

Geethu Mohandas's 2019 Malayalam film follows Mulla, fourteen, travelling from the Lakshadweep islands to Mumbai in search of her elder brother. Akbar left the island years ago because of a relationship he could not live there. The structure splits in two: the present in the night world of Mumbai and the past on the island. Nivin Pauly plays a role entirely outside his mainstream identity. Rajeev Ravi's photography is strong, with a clear difference between the island and city sections. The story is harsh and the violence direct; some passages are unbearable. Who it's for: viewers interested in Malayalam independent cinema and queer narratives. Who it's not for: anyone avoiding sexual violence and danger to a child, or wanting a hopeful close.