Mysskin Slams Retro, Defends Dorothy's Climax Amid Queerphobia Allegations

Mysskin, the filmmaker behind the recent hit film Dorothy, has come under fire for his brutal honesty about his previous film Retro, which he described as a "lame film" during a success meet for Dorothy. The controversy surrounding Retro's portrayal of queerphobia has sparked a heated debate in the film industry.

With many calling out Karthik Subbaraj for his handling of the sensitive topic.

Dorothy, starring Sanath, Rishikanth, and Keerthy Suresh, was released on September 25 and has received a standing ovation at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival. The film'It was success has been attributed to its thought-provoking portrayal of toxic masculinity, casteism, and violence in 90s India.

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"Karthi did a film before this (Retro)…adhu oru mokka padam dhan adhu (it’s just a lame film). That was the first film I watched of Karthi’s," Mysskin shared, adding, "There was a single take dance and all. It’s lame, actually, I don’t mind saying it.

Even my assistants say that Karthi’s films are good. I usually go to the theatres to pray to Gods, I prayed to Gods while watching this film."

The climax of Dorothy has been criticized for its handling of queerphobia, with some accusing Karthik Subbaraj of perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Mysskin defended the film, stating, "If men can slit each other’s throats and kill other men (on screen), there’s nothing wrong in watching men kiss each other."

Despite widespread criticism, Retro's theatrical run in May 2025 was marked by a mixed reception. The film, starring Suriya, Pooja Hegde, and Joju George, explores the complexities of a gangster's life. There, a promise to his wife sets off a chain of events that challenge his commitment to a more peaceful existence.

The movie's narrative is complicated by the unearthing of his troubled past, which threatens to upend his carefully constructed facade.

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The film collected ₹97.35 crore worldwide, while Dorothy has collected ₹12.25 crore worldwide so far, with a limited release compared to Retro.

Keerthy Suresh, Sananth, and Rishikanth play the leads in Dorothy, which premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival early in September and received a standing ovation.