Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal’ sparks debate over incest portrayal; Director says, “I approached the subject without judgment”

Sharan Venugopal’s 'Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal,' which recently premiered on OTT, has received widespread acclaim for its performances and storytelling. However, the film has also sparked controversy, with some viewers criticizing its depiction of incest.

Talking to Manorama Online, director Sharan Venugopal urged audiences to approach the film with an open mind. The filmmaker stated that he was fully aware of the sensitive nature of the subject while writing the script. However, he defended his decision to include it, emphasizing that such relationships, though unconventional, exist in society.

"After watching the film, several people reached out to me, saying they could relate to the story and this specific narrative thread," Sharan said. "I explored the subject without passing judgment and hope viewers do the same."
The film follows three brothers—Vishwanathan (Alencier), Sethu (Joju George), and Bhaskar (Suraj Venjaramoodu)—who reunite to care for their ailing mother. The storyline primarily explores family dynamics and unresolved conflicts, but the subplot involving their children—cousins Annie (Garggi Ananthan) and Nikhil (Thomas Mathew)—has been at the center of the controversy.
Even though the Joju George starrer is getting good attention after the OTT release, the movie didn’t work well at the box office. ETimes gave the film a rating of 3.5 out of 5, and our exclusive review reads, “If there’s a drawback, it is that the film lacks the usual commercial appeal or dramatic highs that typically pull crowds to the theater. It isn’t a film that thrives on twists or spectacle, but rather, on the quiet intensity of human relationships. At its core, this is a slice-of-life film that doesn’t offer easy resolutions. Is family about love, obligation, or survival? The answer remains elusive, much like in real life. But in the end, it is love—however flawed or hesitant—that endures beyond grudges and misunderstandings.”
While many have praised the film’s nuanced storytelling, the incest theme has drawn criticism from certain sections of the audience. Some have accused the film of normalizing a taboo subject, while others argue that cinema should have the freedom to explore complex human relationships.