Cinema is undoubtedly a powerful medium—capable of spreading both misconceptions and truths, capable of upholding a reputation or destroying one.
"Katrina Kaif inte oru chaaya..."
Sudipto Sen explores weighty themes like terrorism in his film, presenting them as factual accounts. However, it raises questions about the depth of understanding behind such portrayals—especially when certain cultural details, like the way a Malayali speaks or how a Malayali girl dresses, seem to be inaccurately depicted. When these foundational elements feel off, it becomes challenging to fully trust the narrative being presented.
Pinarayi Vijayan: Honouring a film that spreads blatant misinformation…
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan strongly criticized 'The Kerala Story’s recognition at the National Awards. He tweeted:
“By honouring a film that spreads blatant misinformation with the clear intent of tarnishing Kerala’s image and sowing seeds of communal hatred, the jury of the #NationalFilmAwards has lent legitimacy to a narrative rooted in the divisive ideology of the Sangh Parivar. Kerala, a land that has always stood as a beacon of harmony and resistance against communal forces, has been gravely insulted by this decision. It is not just Malayalis, but everyone who believes in democracy, who must raise their voice in defence of truth and the constitutional values we hold dear.”
Now, let’s not even get into how the film bagged the Best Cinematography Award. Put 'The Kerala Story' aside. Take a look at these Malayalam films that truly captured the heart and soul of Kerala.
Directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, '2018' is a gripping portrayal of the 2018 Kerala floods. The film vividly showcases the state’s spirit of unity and resilience.
The film highlights how people from all walks of life such as fishermen, doctors, soldiers, and ordinary citizens, came together to face a natural calamity. It beautifully captures Kerala’s communal harmony, selflessness, and collective strength.
The film is set against the diverse and stunning landscapes of the state, from bustling cities to serene backwaters. A powerful tribute to Kerala’s empathy and strength.
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook)
"We wanted to show the world the untold stories of people" - Tovino Thomas
In an exclusive chat with Tovino Thomas who played on of the leads in '2018', he said that the main purpose of the movie was to convey the untold stories of people who faced the calamity with much strength and unity. The '2018' actor told us, "We wanted to show the world the untold stories of people who rose above adversity when faced with nature's fury and how, in the midst of chaos, humanity shone its brightest. Our collective effort to bring these stories to our audience has now reached international recognition.” He further said, "Amidst the darkness of calamity and the ruins it left behind, the film illuminates the triumph of the human spirit."
"Tovino said - Chetta this film could create history" - Jude Anthany Joseph
In an exclusive interview wit ETimes, the '2018' director said, "Though we knew that ‘2018’ would emerge as a hit, this kind of response was beyond our imagination. We are grateful to the audience for this immense response. Initially, when I pitched the idea, nobody really believed that we could make a movie about the floods. Tovino Thomas, however, gave me his date, and producer Anto Joseph believed in me."
Jude further said, "Though they weren’t sure if I could pull it off, they trusted my vision. The only thing Tovino Thomas told me when he blocked his dates for me was, ‘Chetta, this film could create history, so put your best."
'Kumbalangi Nights' (2019)
Directed by Madhu C. Narayanan, the film is set in a fishing village near Kochi, 'Kumbalangi Nights' dives deep into the social fabric of modern Kerala. Through the story of four brothers, the film explores themes of family, masculinity, mental health, and evolving gender roles. The movie features Soubin Shahir, Fahadh Faasil, Sreenath Bhasi, Shane Nigam, Anna Ben and others in pivotal roles.
'Virus' (2019)
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook)
Directed by Aashiq Abu, the film is based on the 2018 Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala. 'Virus' reflects the state’s societal resilience and scientific spirit. The film portrays the collective efforts of healthcare workers, government officials, and citizens as they confront a deadly epidemic. Through the film, Aashiq Abu conveys the idea that Malayalis stand united, no matter the caste, religion or any other factors.
'Virus' is not just about surviving an epidemic. It’s about empathy, trust, and the quiet heroes among us.
These films didn’t just tell stories. They reflected the spirit of Kerala, its people, its culture, its struggles, and above all, its heart.