Ahead of its theatrical release on October 10, the makers of Feminichi Fathima, to be distributed by Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films in Kerala, dropped the film's trailer on Monday. Premiered at the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) last year, it swept major awards at the festival.
The trailer opens with the titular protagonist, Fathima, a housewife, expressing her frustration to her son after he accidentally urinates on a new mattress. She tries every possible method to get rid of the lingering odour, but nothing seems to work. We then get glimpses of her controlling, conservative husband, hinting at the limitations she faces within her home.
In an attempt to solve the problem, Fathima borrows a used mattress from a neighbour, which her husband disapproves of after learning that its previous owner had died on it. Later, a mattress vendor introduces her to different types of mattresses available for purchase, while Fathima questions her husband about why she cannot simply buy a bed of her own. The trailer concludes with the husband pointedly asking if Fathima is a feminichi (a Malayalam slang term for feminist). The film promises to be a witty satire that challenges patriarchy and conservatism.
Feminichi Fathima is written, edited and directed by debutant Fasil Muhammed. Shamla Hamza plays the titular role of Fathima, with Kumar Sunil, Viji Viswanath, Pushpa, Praseedha, and Raji Menon in supporting parts. The film's technical crew includes cinematographer Prince Fransis and background score by Shiyad Kabeer. It is produced by Sudheesh Scaria and Sarkeet director Thamar KV.
At the 29th IFFK, Feminichi Fathima won five major honours: the Jury Prize, the Audience Poll Award, the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) Award for Best Film in the International Competition, a Special Mention in the Federation of Film Societies of India’s K R Mohanan Award for Best Debut Director, and the NETPAC Award for Best Malayalam Film. The film also won the Best Film at the 48th Kerala Film Critics Awards.
An excerpt from the CE review of the film reads, "Feminichi Fathima stands out not just for its message but for how it delivers it, leaving you with a smile and the lingering thought that sometimes, the simplest victories are the most profound. In a world where women like Fathima are often expected to fade into the background, this film celebrates the quiet strength and resilience of the everyday woman. It is a reminder that change begins with the ordinary—a new mattress, an assertive decision and a refusal to conform. It also stands as a testament to the power of satire in sparking conversation, offering both humour and thoughtfulness in equal measure."