Simple Manusan
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Theatrical Screenings
Kinoteka 2
Kinomuzeum
Online Availability
Additional Materials
Film description
Occupation: barber. Age: mid-thirties. Marital status: single. Housemates: dad and sister. In short: an ordinary guy. When his father grows increasingly frustrated that his adult son still hasn’t found a wife, the young man begins searching for a partner. There are many ways to go about it, dating apps, traditional matchmakers, friends, but in Kuala Lumpur, dating isn’t easy, and finding “the one” is even harder.
"Manusan", another intriguing example of the growing Tamil-language cinema from Malaysia, raises important questions about masculinity in the 21st century. In his search for love, the protagonist is forced to confront himself, putting his sense of self-worth to the test. Is being single really something to be ashamed of?
This reflection on the state of modern romantic relationships is both funny and melancholic, and above all, deeply universal.
text:
Marcin Krasnowolski
Haran Kaveri
Haran Kaveri graduated in Film Studies from ASWARA, Malaysia’s National Academy of Arts. He is drawn to fiction films that address social taboos. His work explores the daily struggles of Malaysia’s working-class communities, blending realism with personal perspectives. With a keen sensitivity to cultural nuance, he creates cinema that evokes emotion, provokes reflection, challenges conventions and sparks discussion—bridging the gap between independent and mainstream filmmaking.
2014 Snap (short)
2016 Mambang (short)
2017 Thedal (short)
2019 Metro Maalai
Shobaan
An independent filmmaker based in Kuala Lumpur, Shobaan is passionate about bringing untold stories of Malaysian Hindus to the screen. He began his career making short films, music videos and commercials before debuting with his feature "Metro Maalai", co-directed with Haran Kaveri. Working with limited budgets, Shobaan crafts raw, authentic narratives that reflect the struggles and aspirations of Malaysia’s middle class. His films aim to amplify underrepresented voices and capture everyday realities with honesty and depth.
2011 The Chase (short)
2015 Diari Kuala Lumpur (short)
2019 Metro Maalai


