Malayalam cinema

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Malayalam cinema refers to the film industry in the Malayalam language, based in the southern state of Kerala. It is also known as Mollywood, a portmanteau of Malayalam and Hollywood. The industry is known for its artistic and realistic portrayal of subjects, often reflecting the social and cultural ethos of Kerala.

History

The history of Malayalam cinema dates back to the early 20th century. The first Malayalam film, Vigathakumaran (The Lost Child), was released in 1928, directed by J. C. Daniel. This was followed by Balan in 1938, which was the first talkie in Malayalam. The industry saw significant growth in the 1950s and 1960s with the emergence of notable filmmakers like Ramu Kariat, P. Bhaskaran, and Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

Golden Age

The period from the late 1980s to the early 1990s is often referred to as the Golden Age of Malayalam cinema. During this time, the industry produced several critically acclaimed films and saw the rise of legendary actors like Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Suresh Gopi. Directors like Padmarajan, Bharathan, and K. G. George contributed significantly to the industry with their unique storytelling and innovative techniques.

Notable Films

Some of the most notable films in Malayalam cinema include:

• Chemmeen (1965) - Directed by Ramu Kariat
• Elippathayam (1981) - Directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan
• Manichitrathazhu (1993) - Directed by Fazil
• Drishyam (2013) - Directed by Jeethu Joseph

Awards and Recognition

Malayalam cinema has received numerous National Film Awards and international recognition. Films like Marana Simhasanam (1999) and Vanaprastham (1999) have been screened at prestigious film festivals like Cannes.

Modern Era

In recent years, Malayalam cinema has continued to evolve, embracing new technologies and storytelling methods. The industry has seen the rise of new talents like Dulquer Salmaan, Fahadh Faasil, and Parvathy Thiruvothu. Directors like Lijo Jose Pellissery and Dileesh Pothan have garnered critical acclaim for their innovative films.

Related Pages

• Indian cinema
• Bollywood
• Kollywood
• Tollywood (Telugu cinema)
• Sandalwood (Kannada cinema)
• National Film Awards