The journey of Malayalam cinema began in 1928 with the release of Balaan , a film directed by S. Nottanandan. However, it was Moolan (1938), directed by S. S. Rajan, that marked the beginning of a new era in Malayalam cinema. The film's success paved the way for other movies, and by the 1950s, Malayalam cinema had established itself as a significant player in Indian cinema.
Malayalam cinema has had a significant impact on Indian cinema as a whole. The industry's focus on realistic storytelling, nuanced characters, and social issues has influenced filmmakers across India. Many Bollywood films have been inspired by Malayalam movies, with remakes like Qurbani (1980) and Ugly (2014) showcasing the industry's influence. The journey of Malayalam cinema began in 1928
The 1960s and 1970s are often referred to as the Golden Age of Malayalam cinema. During this period, films like Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu (1962), Chemmeen (1965), and Adoor Gopalakrishnan's Swayamvaram (1972) gained critical acclaim and commercial success. These films showcased the talents of legendary actors like Prem Nazir, Sathyan, and Madhu, and directors like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Kunchacko, and Ramu Kariat. Malayalam cinema has had a significant impact on