Unni Mukundan recently reacted to actor Shine Tom Chacko's arrest for drug use and other offenses. The Marco actor thinks that movies are a 'soft target' and aren't responsible for encouraging drug usage.

Unni Mukundan defended his recently released movie Marco, which drew criticism for depicting substance abuse. The Malayalam actor clarified in an interview with OnManorama that movies by themselves cannot be held accountable for these kinds of situations.

Unni Mukundan defended the artistic purpose of filmmaking in response to complaints that the movie Marco depicted careless substance use. He said, "It is bad that, in a country with educated people, awareness has to be created against drug abuse. The problem is not the movie Marco. Isn't it just a movie? The movie points out the things happening in society. It doesn't promote drug abuse."

Unni Mukundan highlighted how home and school environments need more care and attention. The drug problem affects every industry and is widespread.

Unni Mukundan further continued, "It is not right to say that drug abuse and crime rates are increasing under the influence of cinema. Cinema cannot influence society in that way. How do these contraband substances reach Kerala? How does it reach schools? Who are its carriers? I have been hearing these since my childhood days."

The Marco actor ended by emphasising that there's no use in pointing the finger at the movie industry because it's frequently a vulnerable target. Unni also pointed out that drug abuse and addiction are problems that affect all industries, but that those in the film business typically get more attention when they do.

Mukundan's comments coincide with Malayalam star Shine Tom Chacko's arrest by the police on suspicion of drug use. The actor reportedly received bail and was released from custody after being charged during a four-hour questioning.

On the plus side, Unni Mukundan valued the growing openness in the film industry, particularly from female actresses who have been candid about their challenging experiences. He stated that he believes that having these open discussions is an essential first step in encouraging responsibility and bringing about significant systemic change.