At a certain moment in Label, a crime appears to be unfolding before our eyes. The scene is portrayed with such authenticity that it seems like a genuine criminal act until the protagonist enters the frame, revealing that a group of journalists is simply filming a creative representation of a crime for their program. The protagonist, a lawyer weary of being pigeonholed due to his background, expresses his discontent that the young men participating in the skit are perpetuating the very stereotypes he seeks to challenge. He reflects with a sigh on the unfortunate perception of individuals from his community, who are often labeled as thugs and henchmen.
Cast: Jai, Tanya Hope, Master Mahendran, Ilavarasu, Sriman and others
Director: Arunraja Kamaraj
Streamer: Disney+ Hotstar
Cinema frequently engages with themes of identity politics to convey deeply personal narratives. At times, audiences may struggle to grasp the underlying political messages in stories that explore identities, whether they focus on the experiences associated with those identities or the oppression faced by individuals. Conversely, such narratives can also celebrate identities as symbols of pride. Disney+ Hotstar’s series Label endeavors to illustrate the enduring consequences that can accompany being labeled with a specific identity.
In an era where narratives often exalt individual identities, Label takes a compelling approach by revealing how such labels can also serve as a burden that disrupts one’s tranquility. The series is set in Vaali Nagar, North Chennai, where individuals work as henchmen for various organized crime syndicates, referred to as ‘labels.’ In contrast, Prabha (Jai), a lawyer from the same locality, strives to challenge stereotypes and uplift his community. Having experienced the trauma of a false accusation in his youth, Prabha is dedicated to liberating others from fabricated charges while simultaneously devising a long-term strategy to dismantle the crime networks that plague his neighborhood.
Label’s premise is intriguing. Before exploring the complexities of the ‘label’ system—introduced through an animated sequence—the narrative presents Prabha and the noble causes he champions. With his extensive experience in handling such cases, he swiftly dismantles a false accusation. Prabha harbors greater aspirations, aiming to ascend to the position of a judge. In contrast, Veera (Master Mahendran), a young boy, aspires to become a label and ascend the ranks of brutality and violence. Additionally, Mahitha (Tanya Hope), a journalist, is on a quest to uncover a significant case.
The series features a notable presence of imagery related to Ambedkar and Buddha, alongside authentic portrayals of how preconceived notions can influence perceptions.
