Onlookers Top 10: Here’s the list of best debutants in Malayalam cinema 2018
Malayalam cinema has always been very welcoming of newcomers. 2018 was also no different with some great talents bursting the scene. Let’s take a look at best some of the best debut performers of the year.
10. Shahi Kabir
The policeman-turned-scriptwriter penned ‘Joseph’ as a wonderful drama-cum-thriller. The protagonist here is a retired policeman who is still the go-to-man for his seniors to solve a case. Shahi Kabir’s experience of working in the department has come handy while detailing the criminal proceedings. Apart from the crime part, he has also wonderfully sketched the emotional turmoil that Joseph goes through in his life.
9. Tinu Pappachan
Coming from the Lijo Jose Pellissery school, Tinu Pappachan made a striking impression with his debut work, ‘Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil’. Though the plot was shaky, Tinu made up for that with his extraordinarily stylish making. Aided by Antony Varghese, Vinayakan, Chemban and a brilliant technical crew, Tinu came up with an absolute edge-of-the seat thriller.
8. Kailas Menon
His music set the ball rolling for ‘Theevandi’. Despite the multiple-release postponing, the movie was always in the talks courtesy the smashing success of ‘Jeevamshamayi’ — arguably the song of the year. Kailas’ entry to the film industry is indeed a fairytale stuff. Music lovers are eagerly waiting for his upcoming works. Hopefully, he lives up to the expectations.
7. Rathish Ambat
A veteran in the ad film industry, Rathish Ambat made his feature film with ‘Kammara Sambhavam’. Though the script by Murali Gopy had its loose ends, the former’s skills as a filmmaker deserves praise. While the so-called big budget films failed miserably to impress, Rathish’s spectacular work had grandeur written all over it. He is indeed a filmmaker to watch out for.
6. Ranjin Raj
From a reality show participant to a hit composer, Ranjin Raj’s journey is quite inspiring. Ranjin made his debut this year with ‘Nithyaharitha Nayakan’, but it was his work in ‘Joseph’ that got people talking. All four songs in the movie emerged as big hits. The tracks ‘Poomuthole’ and ‘Karineela Kannulla Pennu’ have the classic feel of Malayalam music, something that has been dearly missed of late.
5. Neeta Pillai
Except for Kalidas, almost the entire cast of ‘Poomaram’ had newcomers. The most impressive among the lot was Neeta Pillai who played the role of Irene, the dynamic chairperson of St Treesa’s college. Neeta’s powerful dialogue delivery and screen presence while inspiring her college mates gave glimpses of an extremely talented actor. She is certain to get many plum roles in the near future.
4. Dhanesh Anand
E4 Entertainment introduced a bunch of newcomers with their film ‘Lilli’ and one of the most noted among them was Dhanesh Anand. He played the role of a psychotic killer in the movie and his performance was widely talked about during the time of release. He displayed a flawless performance while playing a cold-blooded eccentric villain. Much is expected from this talented actor.
3. Samuel Abiola Robinson
While ‘Sudani From Nigeria’ is a huge audience favorite, Samuel’s performance in the movie has rarely been talked about. Most part of the movie had his character (also named Samuel) bed-ridden, so he had to perform mostly with his facial expressions. His helplessness, hopes of survival and the warm relationship he shared with the ummas were earnestly brought on screen.
2. Zakariya Mohammed
The captain of Sudani’s ship, Zakariya Mohammed has already won several top awards. Along with Muhsin Parari, Zakariya scripted a simple tale of compassion and brotherhood that won hearts unanimously. Within the limits of a simple rural story, Zakariya addressed relevant issues like refugee crisis, basic human compassion and communal harmony. Hands down, the debutant director of the year.
1. Savitiri Sreedharan and Sarasa Balussery
Down the years, Zakariya’s ‘Sudani From Nigeria’ will still be remembered for several reasons. On top of everything else would be the adorable performances of the two ummas, who are convincingly portrayed as the epitome of humaneness. Savitri Sreedharan and Sarasa Balussery were so apt for Jameela and Beeyumma that it felt like they were just living in their roles. They both are easily the find of the year and I’m sure there won’t be any further arguments on that.
