The Rise of Malayalam Cinema

Malayalam cinema is a hidden gem of Indian cinema that has experienced a remarkable rise over the years. It offers a refreshing and diverse range of unique styles and themes that have captivated audiences and critics alike. This story takes you on a journey through the evolution of Malayalam cinema and explores the factors that have contributed to its meteoric rise.

According to the data from the Film Federation of India, in 2019, Malayalam cinema produced a total of 111 films, which was less than five per cent of the total number of films produced across India that year. (Source: India Today)

Malayalam cinema, the film industry based in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has been gaining recognition and appreciation for its unique style, fresh perspectives, and culturally rooted themes. Malayalam films are known for their realistic storytelling, use of local dialects, and authentic settings that reflect the culture and traditions of Kerala. Many Malayalam films tackle socially relevant issues such as caste, gender, religion, politics, and social justice, making them a reflection of the society they are created in.

Malayalam cinema has experienced a significant rise over the past few decades, establishing itself as one of the most vibrant and creative film industries in India. The roots of Malayalam cinema can be traced back to the 1920s, with the release of the first silent film, Vigathakumaran, in 1928. However, it was not until the 1950s and 1960s that the industry started to gain momentum, with the emergence of talented filmmakers and actors who contributed to the development of the industry.

The 1970s saw the rise of the new wave of Malayalam cinema, which was characterised by a shift away from formulaic commercial films towards more realistic and socially relevant stories. Filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, G. Aravindan, and John Abraham were instrumental in bringing about this change, and their films won critical acclaim at various international film festivals.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Malayalam cinema saw the emergence of a new generation of filmmakers and actors, who continued to explore diverse themes and styles. Filmmakers like Padmarajan, Bharathan, and Lohithadas, and actors like Mammootty, Mohanlal, and Jayaram, became synonymous with the industry, and their films became popular across India.

In recent years, Malayalam cinema has witnessed a resurgence, with a new wave of talented filmmakers and actors bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the industry. Films like Kumbalangi Nights, Jallikattu, Angamalay Dairies, Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum, Trance, Sudani from Nigeria, and Joji have won critical acclaim and become commercial successes, while also showcasing the diversity and depth of Malayalam cinema, ranging from social commentary and realism to fantasy and surrealism.

With the rise of digital platforms and global distribution, regional cinema is getting a wider platform to showcase its work and reach a broader audience. The success of Malayalam films like Kumbalangi Nightsand Jallikattu on international streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video has opened up new opportunities for regional cinema in India to be recognised on a global scale.

The growth of regional cinema in India is not just limited to Malayalam cinema. Other regional film industries such as Marathi cinema, Tamil cinema, Bengali cinema, and Punjabi cinema have also been gaining recognition and appreciation for their unique styles and themes. According to a report by Deloitte India, the Indian regional cinema industry is expected to grow to $3.6 billion by 2025.

The rise of regional cinema in India and beyond offers a refreshing and diverse alternative to the often formulaic and repetitive Bollywood films that dominate the Indian film industry. As audiences crave more authentic and culturally grounded storytelling, regional cinema has become a beacon of hope for those looking for a fresh cinematic experience. Malayalam cinema has proven to be a vital and dynamic part of Indian cinema, offering a unique voice and perspective to the film industry. As regional cinema continues to grow and gain recognition, it's clear that the future of Indian cinema lies in embracing and celebrating the diversity and richness of regional cultures and traditions.