7 fictional men of 2024 who make good role models

While we are still unlearning "mard ko dard nahin hota" and "ladke rote nahi hai", here are some fictional men who showcase how men are capable of change.

It’s relatively effortless to experiment with women’s stories in cinema as their narratives have often been constructed in relation to male heroes. This provides a clean slate, a canvas to work with and reshape. However, the same cannot be said for man’s representation on screen. For decades, male characters have largely been defined by conventional stereotypes—stoic, aggressive, emotionally distant and this deeply ingrained narrative must be altered or shifted. Crafting new, nuanced male stories is much more challenging, as it requires applying the ideology of “unlearning to learn,” which makes the very framework of masculinity itself to be reconsidered.

Also Read: POV: 6 reasons why we need more men like Noah from Nobody Wants This!

One key reason why traditional gender roles continue to dictate how men behave—both in real life and on-screen—is the industry's continued reliance on outdated portrayals. Hence the absence of "good men" in cinema is palpable! No wonder when a character like Noah from Nobody Wants This comes along, he is instantly celebrated as the greenest flag, becoming an ideal representation of how men should behave, embodying qualities like emotional intelligence, empathy, and vulnerability. Similarly, Nick from Heartstopper 3 emerges as a model for supportive love, showing us what it means to be a caring partner who truly listens and uplifts their significant other. And, of course, how could we forget Mustafa from Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, who has captured hearts as one of 2024’s most popular characters, exemplifying growth and self-awareness. His journey demonstrates what true personal evolution in men could look like IRL. These characters aren’t just refreshing but essential in expanding the scope of masculinity on screen, offering hope for a future where men are free to be emotionally honest, nurturing, and multifaceted.

In the same spirit, here are some fictional men of 2024 who have challenged these outdated norms and offered a new vision of masculinity!

Deepak - Laapataa Ladies

Deepak embodies the emotional complexity of traditional rural relationships as he navigates his wife's disappearance and societal pressures. His vulnerability, self-reflection, and maddening innocent love for his wife offer a refreshing contrast to conventional, emotionally repressed male figures.

Vicky, Rudra, Bittu, and Jana - Stree 2 

In Stree 2, Vicky, Rudra, Bittu, and Jana subvert the macho image by openly confronting their fears and insecurities. Their journey shows how true bravery lies in embracing emotional struggles and supporting one another, offering a refreshing and very real take on male bonding.

Bittu - Munjya 

Bittu is a tender-hearted, man who introspects and challenges the traditional masculinity of falling in love. His evolving relationship with Munjya (an apt portrayal of manchild behaviour) contrastingly highlights that real strength is when a man in love doesn't give space to ownership!

Albert - Merry Christmas 

Albert’s kindness and emotional intelligence offer a refreshing contrast to the hardened male figures in thrillers. His graceful approach to solving a mystery and handling relationships provides a much-needed alternative to the emotionally distant male archetype.

Ani - Do Aur Do Pyaar 

Ani is a quirky and charming protagonist whose emotional growth is central to the film. As he navigates relationships, he learns to express his feelings, prioritize self-care, and embrace the complexities of love and friendship, reflecting how modern men are dismantling toxic masculinity in favour of healthier emotional expressions.

Dodo, Ayush, and Pinku - Madgaon Express 

Dodo, Ayush, and Pinku represent different shades of masculinity, but all are united by their ability to defy societal expectations by challenging the "tough guy" stereotype and embracing tenderness, vulnerability, and growth. Their bond with each other showcase how men can support one another without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Amar Singh Chamkila - Chamkila 

Amar Singh Chamkila is a complex character whose emotional journey challenges societal expectations, especially regarding acceptance of pleasure and rigid definitions of masculinity. His evolution reflects the shifting tides of male identity, one who embraces an empathetic voice towards females and tabooed subjects of society! 

These men embrace vulnerability, empathy, and emotional depth, showing that true strength lies in authenticity and self-expression, which doesn't equal to moving away from all the qualities of being a man. 

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