Compiled by : Arjun Anil
May 23 marks the birthday of the man who introduced a new school of film-making to Indian cinema, the legendary director P. Padmarajan, who celebrates his 80th birthday today. The filmmaker is credited with having brought to the screens unique narratives during the era of Parallel Cinema
‘Peruvazhiyambalam’ was Padmarajan’s directorial debut which launched the actor Ashokan. The films explore the themes of guilt, teen-rage, and societal violence. ‘Peruvazhiyambalam’ won one National award and three Kerala State Film awards
‘Koodevide?’, one of Padmarajan’s finest works, portrayed toxic masculinity and their internal conflicts. This film showcased the insecurities and desires of ordinary men. This tragic drama won three Kerala State Film awards
Based on Padmarajan’s short story, the film chronicles three naive men visiting a remote village brothel. It delves into social themes of judgement and acceptance. Sukumari won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Supporting Actress
Actor Jayram’s debut film was a cult classic mystery thriller featuring an unseen antagonist. Though the character is never seen, his presence can be skilfully felt. Padmarajan won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay for this film
'Moonnam Pakkam’ is about an old man, Thampi, who suffers late-life depression after the death of his son, but his happiness is short-lived as a tragic incident follows. G Venugopal won the Kerala State Film Award for the song ‘Unarumee Ganam’
‘Njan Gandharavan’ is a romantic musical fantasy that blends with mythical realism, based on the Gandharva mythology. Rajiv Anchal won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Art Direction