Stigma, Shame and Resurrection: An Analysis of the Malayalam Film, Vellam

Abstract

Alcoholism destroys the psychological balance of an individual. Its consumption has created far-reaching effects in several societies. Media and movies portray the impact of alcohol abuse on society and its members. They focus on the family and social relationships of drinkers. The Malayalam movie, Vellam depicts the life story of a problem drinker and how it affects his social relationships. The shame and stigma experienced by the protagonist are analysed in this article that throws great insights into the portrayal of individuals as drinkers and how the notions of emotional and mental health can be retrieved by the help of an understanding society that helps the addicts to resurrect as powerful and respectable social figures.