I remember veteran actor and director Shekhar Kapur saying in an interview ” Bollywood is trying to tell so many things”. Though it is one of the biggest film industries in the world with thousands of films made a year, the content it provides is very inadequate. The entire world looks at Bollywood as a representation of India, which is why it needs a major revival.
But the sad truth is it overshadows, the vast universe of regional films. Unfortunately, these are all considered as a part of “Bollywood” by someone who is new to Indian Cinema. Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, and Tamil film industries have their own seats in Indian cinema history.
But in recent times, with the advancement of the OTT platform better internet connectivity and quality subtitles, regional cinema has traveled all over India. One of those industries has been at the forefront of the fight for more recognition. Yes, I am talking about “Mollywood”-the Malayalam film industry. This includes films made in a small strip of land popularly known as “God’s Own Country”, Kerala.
Budget
Based on the budget of productions, M’wood is nowhere near Tamil or Telugu industries. But you can find some of the above-mentioned audiences to identify recent Malayalam movies. Do not get me wrong, there are quite a few big-budget movies that have come out and are also under production in M’wood. Films like “Pulimurugan”, “Mamangam” and “Lucifer”, have been some of the recent examples. Another one that is set to come out is the Mohanlal starrer “Marakkar” directed by Priyadarshan.
Apart from the above-mentioned names, the average movie has a very small budget. But there is rarely any compromise with the technical aspects, and acting in these films. The stories are more rooted in daily life experiences rather than humongous sets or flashy item songs.
New Generation
In the past decade, there has been a new movement in mainstream Malayalam cinema. Movies that had a cast of newcomers did major numbers in the Box office. It is not that stars are falling short but the audience is supporting new talent if they deliver the goods. The makers do not blindly rely on star power like Bollywood.
Content is King
This industry was always known for its realistic approach to storytelling. Simple uncomplicated things will be told and the viewers could relate to it as if they are a part of what’s happening on the screen. Now do not get me wrong, You could get all genres here – Commercial entertainers, thrillers, comedy, horror, romance, and even fantasy.
Audience
The audience is one of the major differences that make this industry stand out from the others. You cannot fool the Mallu crowds with gimmicks and showoffs. If you give them quality entertainment, they will watch it. If not get ready for some serious critique that may sometimes be harsh. You cannot question their intelligence. The presence of a demanding audience is what paves the way for the better cinema experience.
Conclusion
So, from the point of a common man, I feel this industry is not getting the recognition it deserves. It does not have the pomp and show some other industries will give you. But I am sure that the majority of people who watched an average Malayalam movie will agree that Bollywood, as it is right now, is no match with this small industry down south.