At the dawn of the quiet movies in world cinema, the first quiet movie in Malayalam ‘Vikathakumaran’ was made with the made in 1928 by J C Daniel . But sadly this film ruined him in financially
'Balan' the first Malayalam "talkies" with sound track, was made in 1938. T.R Sundaram produced this film for modern theatres, Salem, with S. Nottani was the director. Main actors and actresses were K. K. Aroor, Alleppy Vincent, Smt. M. K. Kamalam etc. Muthukulam Raghavan Pillai wrote the screen play. The theme of this film which was based on a step-mother, has prejudiced Malayalam cinema stories for a long time. The picture was, of course a superhit
Jeevitha Nowka' which was made in 1951 bust all the earlier box -office records . It was screened endlessly for 284 days in Trivandrum city. K. Vembu was the director of this film which was produced by Koshi and Kunchcko under the banner of K & K Productions. prominent actor 'Thikkurissy' become famous through this film.
In 1952 , Sathyan through 'Athma Sakhi' and Premnazeer through 'Marumakal' came into the public eye.
Sethumadhavan, who came to the field by directing 'Jnanasundary' In 1961, always maintained his identity by choosing themes with social significance, and presenting them in a simple manner. Most of his films including 'Odayil Ninnu', 'Aranazhika Neram', 'Anubhavangal Palichakal' where based on famous novels . The most eminent actor Satyan proved his gift through Sethu Madhavan's films.
Mr. Ramu Kariattu brought us the primary national level identification. Rural Kerala were the locations for all his films. He introduced Madhu to Malayalam cinema through his film 'Moodupadam'. His most famous film 'Chemmeen' was honoured by President's gold medal. The film was based on Thakazhi Shivasankara Pillai's famous novel . Sathyan , Kottarakkara, Sheela, Madhu, S.P. Pillai etc.. presented their amazing performances in the film.
following 'Chemmeen' Malayalam Cinema has not at all had to look back .
One after another we could make wonderful movies like 'Kanchana Seetha', 'Thambu', 'Elippathayam', 'Vasthuhara', 'Mathilukal', 'Piravi', 'Swam', etc. and could demonstrate our sturdy presence in Indian Cinema Industry. Our prominent directors, like Aravindan, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Shaji etc.. have claimed national and international awards for many of their films.