Post by : Saif Rahman

For decades, male characters in film and television have been depicted as stoic and emotionally detached. This longstanding portrayal has influenced societal expectations of masculinity, creating barriers for men expressing their true feelings. According to the World Health Organization, men globally often refrain from seeking mental health support, even when confronted with stress or anxiety. The fear of judgment and the pressure to appear tough inhibits many from reaching out.

However, a notable shift is occurring on OTT platforms. Young adult series and global productions now showcase male characters who are willing to open up about their feelings, pursue therapy, and confront their emotional challenges. This new representation encourages younger audiences to value emotional honesty. Experts have termed this movement as the “accountability aesthetic,” highlighting the shift in perception where emotional vulnerability is celebrated over stigmatized.

In the words of psychologist Arpita Kohli from PSRI Hospital, media can either perpetuate damaging stereotypes or champion healthier narratives. When men are seen seeking help on screen, it paves the way for genuine discussions on mental health, illustrating that experiencing confusion, fear, or stress is perfectly normal, and reaching out for assistance should not be met with shame.

Psychiatrist Dr. Pavitra Shankar from Aakash Healthcare emphasizes that numerous young men appear outwardly well-off, yet grapple with immense inner turmoil. They may be overwhelmed by financial pressures, job-related stress, or the burden of familial expectations. Their reluctance to speak up stems from a fear of being perceived as weak. Displaying male characters addressing their worries on screen compels audiences to recognize that vulnerability is human and deserving of support.

In acclaimed series like The Summer I Turned Pretty and Maxton Hall, the evolution of male characters emotionally is pivotal to the narrative. For instance, in the second season of The Summer I Turned Pretty, Conrad faces emotional turbulence after his mother's illness comes to light. Instead of being portrayed as aloof, his decision to seek therapy is depicted as a commendable and healthy step. Similarly, in Maxton Hall, James Beaufort's choice to attend therapy following traumatic experiences illustrates a journey towards healing and breaking negative cycles.

Experts unanimously agree on the impact of these narratives, as they normalize mental health awareness. Dr. Kohli remarks that OTT platforms have ventured into spaces that traditional cinema largely overlooked, allowing men to experience and express sadness, fear, and growth without being portrayed as weak or monstrous.

The discourse isn't confined to characters alone. Numerous celebrities have candidly shared their mental health journeys, helping to diminish stigma surrounding these discussions. Actor Arjun Kapoor advocates for therapy, emphasizing that emotional expression is valid. Actor Imran Khan reflects on how challenging mental health discussions used to be a decade ago but commends the new generations for their openness. Director Karan Johar has also shared his experience with therapy regarding body image issues and enduring emotional struggles.

Despite these advancements, some industry voices argue that Indian cinema still faces challenges, as pointed out by influencer Nikhil Taneja, who asserts that many Bollywood male characters remain stuck in traditional hyper-masculine roles. While a few films exhibit emotional sincerity, they are still uncommon. Actor Amol Parashar expresses a preference for narratives that inspire strength through honesty over silence.

As streaming services continue to promote emotional intelligence in male narratives, there is hope that audiences will begin to see emotional expression as a strength rather than a flaw. These productions are a step forward in assisting men and boys in recognizing that seeking out support is a commendable choice and not an indication of weakness. Over time, such portrayals may foster more authentic conversations, increased empathy, and healthier coping mechanisms within our society.

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