The movie offers a new perspective on the more familiar notion of the “psycho” villain. Biological treatments (medication or ECT etc.) and psychosocial treatments (therapy, rehab, etc.) are available and are proven to be effective in helping to manage the disorder. In reality no one can be forced to obtain treatment UNLESS they are a threat to themselves or others. He did not want to ‘burden’ his wife, he was ashamed of his actions, and reluctant to obtain treatment. This is clearly evident in the hero’s struggle in “Moonu”. Others might attempt to repress struggles to avoid hurting loved ones and may also be fearful of eliciting judgment.
In many minority cultures mental illness is not openly addressed due to factors such as shame and hesitancy to seek support from strangers (even if they are professionals) because of cultural values that emphasizes help-seeking within the family instead.
Bipolar disorder affects about 1- 2% of the population WORLDWIDE which is why it’s wonderful that Tamil cinema is raising awareness of this condition. This becomes a medical concern as opposed to the regular ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ that most individuals experience. There are various forms of the disorder, but it is generally a brain disorder in which affected individuals experience extremes in these moods. The story introduces bipolar disorder to a Tamil audience - most of whom may be unfamiliar or misinformed about this mental health disorder.īipolar disorder (also known as manic-depressive illness) consists of three states: a high or ‘manic’ state, a low or ‘depressive’ state, and a functioning ‘balanced or wellness’ state. This article is not a review of the film, but an exploration of bipolar disorder as seen in ‘3’ (“Moonu”).
For those who haven’t watched this movie yet – this is your official spoiler alert!