Matinee

Najeeb, from an orthodox background, dreams of stardom, while Savithri, a motherless girl from a poor family, enters cinema to escape abuse. They are offered to be the lead pair in a film that seems like a normal love story. The opportunity marks the unlikely union of their destinies.

The project, initially pitched as a romance, releases as an adult film. Najeeb and Savithri are suddenly ostracised by society for their association with sleaze cinema. They face judgement and exclusion by the wider community.

The person responsible for their predicament is confronted, and the filmmaker and producers feel remorse for their actions. They acknowledge the harm caused and vow to help them move forward. This marks the turning point toward accountability.

The repentant filmmaker helps Najeeb and Savithri find an apartment in the city. They are given chances in the industry, though initially in minor roles. Savithri begins to take small parts in item-song performances.

Savithri's performances in item-song slots propel her into the limelight. Her image as a provocative performer brings both fame and controversy. Najeeb, meanwhile, struggles to land meaningful roles.

Najeeb is unable to land significant roles and the dream of becoming a megastar fades. The lack of opportunities pushes him toward despair. He watches Savithri's ascent from the sidelines.

Moral pundits condemn Savithri's work and the industry faces scrutiny for sleaze. The controversy deepens as her films are attacked by critics and media. Savithri grapples with the gap between public perception and personal ambition.

Overwhelmed by the industry's hypocrisy, Savithri bursts out in a moment of despair and drinks heavily, eventually passing out in a bathroom. This episode exposes the dark underside of their gleaming success. The moment marks a turning point for her mental health.

Frustrated by his stalled career, Najeeb attempts suicide. The act underscores the emotional toll of their precarious lives in the cinema world. Savithri stays by his side through the crisis and begins to reassess their future together.

Savithri gives birth to Najeeb's daughter and remains in the film industry as an extra to support them. Her continued work ensures their survival in the city. The family begins to adapt to a new, uncertain normal.

Najeeb suffers a waist-down paralysis, changing the dynamics of their relationship. Savithri caring for him while continuing to navigate her own career strengthens their bond. They begin a life defined by resilience in the face of hardship.

They choose to stay together and marry, building a life based on care and mutual support. Savithri continues to act in limited capacities to keep the family afloat while Najeeb adapts to his condition. Their enduring love holds firm despite society's judgments.