Fantasy Realism and Cultural Authenticity in Minnal Murali: Reimagining the Superhero Genre in Malayalam Cinema

Abstract

The emergence of regional superhero cinema in India has significantly transformed the landscape of popular culture and film studies. Minnal Murali, directed by Basil Joseph, represents a landmark intervention in Malayalam cinema by combining fantasy realism with cultural authenticity. This paper critically examines how the film negotiates global superhero conventions while remaining deeply rooted in Kerala’s socio-cultural milieu. Using qualitative textual analysis and cultural studies methodology, the study explores themes of locality, realism, folklore, humour, class identity, and moral conflict. The paper argues that the film succeeds because it indigenizes fantasy rather than merely imitating Western superhero aesthetics. Through its grounded narrative structure, regional language, village setting, and emotionally complex characters, the film creates a culturally resonant superhero discourse. The study contributes to scholarship on regional Indian cinema, OTT-era globalization, and genre hybridization in contemporary film narratives.

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