Jaadugar: A Reprehensible Relic of Toxic Masculinity and Tired Tropes
Netflix’s latest Indian release, Jaadugar, is a glaring example of how not to tell a story. From the first minute, the film centers around Meenu Narang, a character so deeply flawed he borders on cartoonish, making it impossible for the audience to find any redeeming qualities. The film’s biggest issue isn’t just Meenu’s toxic behavior but also its blatant justification of it, making the movie a problematic and ultimately reprehensible piece of entertainment.
A Character Study in Toxic Masculinity
Jaadugar presents a deeply unsettling portrayal of a man, Meenu, whose idea of love is about "winning" women, not understanding them. He propositions women mere weeks after meeting them, showering them with grand gestures without understanding their true desires. Sadly, the film not only fails to challenge this behavior, but it actually reinforces it. Meenu’s actions are excused as grand gestures of love, painting him as a romantic hero despite his inappropriate and controlling behavior.
What’s particularly concerning is the film’s handling of Meenu’s toxic interactions with women. It glosses over the fact that he’s repeatedly pushing himself onto women who have clearly indicated no interest. This is most evident in his relationship with Dr. Disha Chhabra, his love interest. Despite her repeated rebuffs, Meenu continues to pursue her, even going so far as to stage a grand proposal with an elephant at her doorstep.
A Movie of Missed Opportunities
Beyond the lead, the supporting cast also suffers from a lack of depth. The film uses characters like Meenu’s uncle, Pradeep, as mere comedic devices, relying on stereotypes and harmful portrayals. Pradeep, with his stutter, serves as a walking example of how Jaadugar exploits disability for humor, making light of real-life struggles.
Furthermore, the film’s attempts at addressing serious themes like sexual harassment fall flat. A scene involving verbal sexual harassment is brushed aside as just another plot point in the football match, failing to acknowledge the gravity of the issue.
Beyond the Obvious:
The film also misses the mark with its portrayal of football. The emphasis on "winning" at all costs mirrors Meenu’s toxic personality, rather than showcasing the beautiful game in its true form. Even the characterization of Meenu’s magical ambitions feels shallow, acting simply as a means to further his romantic pursuits rather than developing his character.
A Missed Chance for Growth
Jaadugar positions itself as a story about a man who doesn’t understand love, yet throughout the film, Meenu remains unchanged. He never learns, never grows, and ultimately, his toxic behavior is rewarded by the film. It is a blatant disregard for healthy relationships and a mockery of genuine romantic affection.
A Regrettable Contribution to the Culture of Toxic Masculinity
Ultimately, Jaadugar doesn’t just fail to tell a captivating story, but it actively perpetuates harmful stereotypes and ignores the real struggles people face. The film’s careless approach to sensitive issues and its glorification of Meenu’s problematic behavior make it a reprehensible relic of a bygone era. It’s a reminder that we need more nuanced narratives that challenge harmful ideas and celebrate healthy expressions of love and relationships.
