The federation reiterated that art thrives on creative criticism but condemned the personal attacks circulating on social media.
Published Apr 01, 2025 | 11:09 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 01, 2025 | 11:09 AM
First look poster of the film 'L2: Empuraan'. (Supplied)
The Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA), on Monday, 31 March, has spoken out against the recent cyber attacks targeting actor Mohanlal and actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran over the film L2: Empuraan.
In a Facebook post, FEFKA expressed its solidarity with the film’s creators, stating that while criticism is welcome, it should not cross into abuse, threats, or slander.
“The goal of any meaningful debate is not to silence others but to allow them to speak,” FEFKA emphasized, quoting Hemingway’s character from The Old Man and the Sea: “You can destroy a man, but you cannot defeat him.”
The federation reiterated that art thrives on creative criticism but condemned the personal attacks circulating on social media.
Meanwhile, actor Asif Ali also criticised those who hide behind social media to attack others.
He emphasized that cinema should be viewed as entertainment and warned that excessive social media use could escalate issues.
“We must decide how much influence a film should have. Those lacking the courage to speak directly are throwing stones from the shadows. Only those who face cyber-attacks truly understand,” Asif Ali stated, affirming his stance for justice.
In an indirect attack, the Orthodox Church’s Thrissur Diocese Metropolitan, Yuhanon Mar Meletius, also alleged that those behind Gandhi’s assassination continued their violent acts, stating, “Now they have murdered a movie.”
His Facebook post, without naming any group, linked past events like the Gujarat riots and Babri Masjid demolition to the alleged suppression of the film. His statement has sparked mixed reactions.
Even as it shattered records, Empuraan had ignited a fierce political debate, drawing the BJP, RSS, CPI(M), and Congress into an unexpected showdown.
At the heart of the controversy is the plot that has reignited discussions on the 2002 Gujarat riots—turning a cinematic spectacle into a charged political flashpoint.
The controversy gained further traction when Organizer, the RSS mouthpiece, published a scathing article targeting both Mohanlal and Prithviraj, accusing them of distorting narratives and pushing a political agenda.
Following this, the filmmakers have announced substantial changes to the film, including cuts of 2 minutes 8 seconds, changes to the antagonist’s name and a toned-down depiction of violence against women.
The backlash also prompted Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, who plays the lead role, to issue a statement addressing the concerns.
In a Facebook post, Mohanlal expressed regret over the controversy, stating that as an artist, he has always been “mindful of ensuring his films do not promote hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or religious community”.
“Recognising the mental anguish caused, he and the Empuraan team have taken collective responsibility and decided to remove such elements from the film.”
Mohanlal further highlighted “his deep bond with audiences”, noting that their love and trust have been his greatest strength throughout his four-decade career.
