Going by the merit of the themes, the first half of 2018 has already taken advantage over its latter half in Malayalam Cinema. The first six months witnessed the emergence of new filmmakers and actors, who showcased a power house of talent.

Among the 70-odd films released during the first half of 2018, glimpses of efforts towards a realistic treatment are evident. Notably, there is a significant decline in the dramatic narration, largely due to the influence of the successful films helmed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, Aashiq Abu, Dileesh Pothen et al. Simple and delicate themes with their realistic depiction seem to be the success mantra of films of this age.

No heavy subjects are needed to prove that the director is a master in his craft. The prime example is “Sudani From Nigeria”, a film that left a lump in the throat of everyone with its subtle treatment of compassion and human values. Written and directed by newbie Zakariya Mohammed, the flick is an epitome of how a simple tale can be transformed into an impressive and sincere creation sans resorting to familiar cast and visual opulence. In fact, the unknown faces doubled up the freshness of the theme. Apart from other newcomers, actors Savithri Sreedharan and Sarasa Balussery exploited the opportunity in style and showcased the acting brilliance imbibed from their stage experience of over 35 years.

Lijo Jose Pellissery’s much acclaimed “Ee.Ma.Yau” is another typical example of a film that reaches out for the floor of reality. The ululation and dark humour in a dead man’s house are magnificently portrayed in the film. Again, there’s no filmic fripperies and soppy melodrama.

Socially-relevant themes, biopics and out-of-the-box subjects have got visual interpretations during this period. While “Pathirakalam”, directed by Priyanandanan, dealt with the socio-political milieu of the State, V.C. Abhilash-directed “Aalorukkam” had a riveting as well as thought-provoking content, elevated by the sublime performance of Indrans.

Filmmaker Sanal Kumar Sasidharan’s “S Durga” was an obliterated weapon against the hypocrisy and dual standard of the society in its attitude towards women. Albeit it had a simple plot, the milieu of eeriness of a deserted road at midnight and the natural settings made it worth a watch.

“Carbon”, helmed by cinematographer-turned-director Venu, actually made viewers to cudgel their brains regarding the concept of the film unfolded through the character Sibi, portrayed by Fahad Faasil. This film demands a discerning appreciative skill coalesced with the ability to differentiate fantasy and reality. Those who applied prudent interpretation are still in contention with those who find it a sardonic creation. It’s a good sign when constructive debates about a film are hardly abating even after months of its release.

In hindsight, viewers must feel that films like “Captain,” “Eeda,” and “Mazhayathu” should have been given more space and attention in their list of choice. The poor discretion by theatre owners has also affected the take-off of some films despite having a worthy content. The first half gives the insinuation that there is little room for hammy drama, but the content deep-rooted in reality is hard to expunge from the memory of the audience. Have a break!

Top films (Till May 2018)

  • Ee.Ma.Yau
  • Sudani From Nigeria
  • Aalorukkam
  • Pathirakalam
  • S Durga
  • Carbon
  • Eeda
  • Captain

Above Average

  • Mazhayathu
  • Orayiram Kinakkalal
  • Kuttanpillayude Sivarathri
  • Kaly
  • Queen
  • Swathandriam Ardharathriyil
  • Aravindante Athidhikal
  • Aami

Average

  • Aadhi
  • Poomaram
  • Ira
  • Kammara Sambhavam
  • Panchavarnathatha
  • Mohanlal
  • Shikkari Shambhu
  • Vikadakumaran
  • Parole
  • Charminar
  • Thobama
  • Uncle
  • Aabhaasam
  • Khaleefa
  • Chanakya Thanthram
  • Street Lights
  • Premasoothram
  • Kaamuki
  • Naam
  • School Diary
  • Sughamano Daveede
  • Kinar

Average

  • Hey Jude
  • Aadhi
  • Poomaram
  • Ira
  • Kammara Sambhavam
  • Panchavarnathatha
  • Mohanlal
  • Shikkari Shambhu
  • Vikadakumaran
  • Parole
  • Charminar
  • Thobama
  • Uncle
  • Aabhaasam
  • Khaleefa
  • Chanakya Thanthram
  • Street Lights
  • Premasoothram
  • Kaamuki
  • Naam
  • School Diary
  • Sughamano Daveede
  • Kinar

Poor

  • Diwanjimoola Grand Prix
  • Daivame Kaithozham
  • Kuttanadan Marpappa
  • Kalyanam
  • Abhiyude Kadha Anuvinteyum
  • Kadha Paranja Kadha
  • Krishnam
  • Kala Viplavam Pranayam
  • Rosapoo
  • Kallai FM
  • Angarajyathe Jimmanmar
  • Lolans
  • Theneechayum Peerankippadayum
  • Angane Njanum Premichu
  • Suvarna Purushan

By Manoj

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