Article Today, Hyderabad:
For decades, Indian romance films have revolved around the hero’s journey — his desire, struggle, and triumph. The heroine often functioned only as a narrative device. However, a marked shift is now visible in South Indian cinema. A new generation of filmmakers is placing the woman’s perspective at the centre of the story, asking what she wants rather than what the hero seeks.
Rejecting the ‘Soup Boy’ Trope
Recent films have challenged the long-standing trend of glorifying the rejected male lover, often called the “soup boy.” Directors are moving away from narratives that celebrate male anguish or revenge. Rahul Ravindran, director of The Girlfriend, said he turned the camera towards the woman because he was uncomfortable with applauding vengeance-driven heroes. Films such as The Girlfriend, Lover, and Ethiri Neram build strong female characters and question the foundations of the conventional romance genre.
Narrative Structure Reimagined
This shift has altered the core structure of love stories. Traditional tropes — like the hero rescuing the heroine without consent — are now used deliberately to highlight the discomfort such actions create. Rahul Ravindran said he framed several scenes through the protagonist Bhooma’s eyes to expose how intrusive common cinematic behaviours can be. Meanwhile, Lover director Prabhu Ram Vyas argued that authentic drama emerges only when both partners’ perspectives carry equal weight. Themes of ego, emotional dynamics, and mutual negotiation are now explored more intensely through the woman’s role.
Collaboration with Women Writers and Viewers
Filmmakers say the change is rooted in listening to women. Rahul Ravindran shared that he circulated his first draft to 12 women friends, whose breakup stories and difficult experiences shaped the film’s emotional core. Their feedback led him to remove a redemption arc for the male lead, emphasising that men who behave poorly should not escape accountability. Directors note that female viewers respond strongly to narratives grounded in lived reality.
Audience Response and Industry Impact
Producers initially doubted the commercial viability of these films. However, box-office results have surprised many. The Girlfriend reportedly drew a 70 per cent female audience, strengthening support for women-centric storytelling. Analysts say the trend is dismantling old stereotypes and enabling male characters to express emotions without adhering to restrictive norms. They describe the shift as a cultural moment that is reshaping how love stories are told on the South Indian screen.
