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70th National Film Awards: Rishab Shetty Triumphs as Best Actor for ‘Kantara,’ ‘Aattam’ Secures Best Feature Film

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70th National Film Awards: Rishab Shetty Triumphs as Best Actor for ‘Kantara,’ ‘Aattam’ Secures Best Feature Film

The winners of the prestigious 70th National Film Awards were unveiled today, August 16, at a press conference held by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) in New Delhi. The event celebrated the finest cinematic achievements of 2022, honouring the creative excellence and storytelling prowess of Indian filmmakers.

Marking a significant win for Kannada cinema, Rishab Shetty clinched the Best Actor award for his riveting performance in the folk action thriller, Kantara. Directed by Shetty himself, the film not only captivated audiences with its gripping narrative but also earned the title of Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

In a rare occurrence, the Best Actress award was shared between two remarkable talents. Nithya Menen was honoured for her role in the Tamil comedy-drama Thiruchitrambalam, while Manasi Parekh was recognised for her stellar performance in the Gujarati drama Kutch Express.

The Malayalam film Aattam emerged as a standout winner, sweeping the awards for Best Feature Film, Best Editing, and Best Screenplay. Directed by Anand Ekarshi, Aattam is a suspense chamber drama that has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

The Best Director accolade was awarded to Sooraj R Barjatya for his Hindi adventure drama Uunchai. The film, featuring a star-studded cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, and Boman Irani, was praised for its compelling narrative and emotional depth.

The awards recognised films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1 and December 31, 2022. The winners will be felicitated in a ceremony in October 2024, where President Droupadi Murmu will present the honours. The recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, however, will be announced later, as noted by the jury today.

The feature films were judged by a distinguished panel of juries, comprising Dilip Kumar Pandey, Dr Anurag Singh, Yatindra Mishra, Subhajit Mitra, Amol Bhave, and RV Udayakumar.

In the non-feature category, Murmurs of the Jungle by Sahil Vaidya won Best Documentary, while From The Shadow earned Miriam Chandy Menacherry the Best Direction award. A Coconut Tree, directed by Joshy Benedict, was celebrated as the Best Animated Film. Other notable winners include Xunyota by Nabapan Deka for Best Short Film and Madhyantara by Basti Dinesh Shenoy for Best Debut Film of a Director.

The 70th National Film Awards once again highlight the diversity and richness of Indian cinema, celebrating stories that resonate across the nation.

The 70th National Film Awards honoured the best in Indian cinema for the year 2022. Below is the complete list of winners:

Feature Film Category:

Best Actor*: Rishab Shetty for Kantara (Kannada)
Best Actress* (Tie): Nithya Menen for Thiruchitrambalam (Tamil) and Manasi Parekh for Kutch Express (Gujarati)
Best Feature Film*: Aattam (Malayalam)
Best Director*: Sooraj R Barjatya for Uunchai (Hindi)
Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment*: Kantara (Kannada)
Best Editing*: Aattam (Malayalam)
Best Screenplay*: Aattam (Malayalam)

Non-Feature Film Category:

Best Documentary: Murmurs of the Jungle by Sahil Vaidya
Best Non-Feature Film Direction*: Miriam Chandy Menacherry for From The Shadow
Best Script: Koushik Sarkar for Mono No Aware
Best Narration/Voice Over*: Sumant Shinde for Murmurs Of The Jungle
Best Animated Film: A Coconut Tree by Joshy Benedict
Best Editing: Suresh URS for Madhyantara
Best Sound Design: Manas Choudhury for Yaan
Best Cinematography: Siddharth Diwan for Mono No Aware
Best Short Film: Xunyota by Nabapan Deka
Best Debut Film of a Director: Basti Dinesh Shenoy for Madhyantara
Best Non-Feature Film Music Direction: Vishal Bharadwaj for Fursat
Best Arts and Culture Film: Ranga Vibhoga by Suneel Narasimhachar Puranik and Varsa by Sachin Balasaheb Suryawanshi
Best Biographical/Historical Reconstruction/Compilation Film*: Aanaki Ek Mohenjo Daro by Ashok Rane
Best Non-Feature Film Promoting Social and Environmental Values*: On The Brink Season 2: Gharial by Akansha Sood Singh
Special Mention: Birubala by Aimee Baruah and Hargila – The Greater Adjutant Stork by Partha Sarathi Mahant

Other Awards:
Best Book On Cinema: Kishore Kumar: The Ultimate Biography by Anirudha Bhattacharjee and
Parthiv Dhar
Best Film Critic: Deepak Dua (Hindi)

These awards, celebrating the diverse spectrum of Indian cinema, will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu in a ceremony scheduled for October 2024.

“Aadujeevitham” Sweeps 54th Kerala State Film Awards with Nine Wins; Prithviraj Sukumaran, Urvashi, and Beena R. Chandran Triumph as Best Actors

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“Aadujeevitham” Sweeps 54th Kerala State Film Awards with Nine Wins; Prithviraj Sukumaran, Urvashi, and Beena R. Chandran Triumph as Best Actors

The 54th Kerala State Film Awards celebrated the finest in regional cinema, with Blessy’s “Aadujeevitham” and Jeo Baby’s “Kaathal – The Core” emerging as the night’s biggest winners. This year’s ceremony was historic, with a record-breaking 160 films submitted for consideration, reflecting the growing diversity and talent in Malayalam cinema.

“Aadujeevitham”, a poignant adaptation of a real-life saga of human resilience, stole the spotlight by clinching nine awards. The film’s director, Blessy, received the Best Director award, while Prithviraj Sukumaran was honored with the Best Actor award for his compelling portrayal. The film also secured accolades for Best Popular Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Sound Mixing, Best Makeup Artist, and Best Processing Lab/Colourist.

In a moving turn, “Kaathal – The Core” garnered the Best Film award and Best Story for Jeo Baby’s sensitive exploration of homosexuality, showcasing the film’s powerful narrative and emotional depth.

Urvashi and Beena R. Chandran* shared the Best Actor (Female) award for their remarkable performances. Urvashi portrayed a mother grappling with grief in “Ullozhukku”, while Beena R. Chandran brought to life a woman enduring a series of tragic events in “Thadavu”. Razak Fazil, the debutant director of “Thadavu”, also took home the Best Debutant Director award.

The Best Original Screenplay Award went to Rohith M.G. Krishnan for “Iratta”, a gripping tale of twin brothers leading disparate lives. “Iratta” also won the Best Second Film award. Notable wins included Jayadevan Chakkadath and Anil Radhakrishnan for Best Sound Design in “Ullozhukku”, and Jude Anthany Joseph’s “2018” for Best Visual Effects and Best Art Direction.

The Best Music Award was presented to Justine Varghese for “Chaaver”, and Mathews Pulickan won Best Background Music for “Kaathal – The Core”. The Best Playback Singer awards were claimed by Vidhyadharan Master for “Pathiranennorthoru Kanavil” from “Jananam 1947 Pranayam Thudarunnu” and Ann Amie for “Thinkalppoovin Ithalival” from “Pachuvum Albuthavilakkum”.

Sudhi Kozhikode and Krishnan received Special Jury Awards for their performances in “Kaathal – The Core” and “Jaivam”, respectively. Shalini Ushadevi, director of “Ennennum”, won the Special Jury Award for women/transgender people.

The jury, led by filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, along with members including Lijo Jose Pellissery and Priyanandan TR, faced the challenging task of selecting winners from the record number of submissions. The awards highlight the rich tapestry of storytelling and talent within Malayalam cinema.

Here’s the full list of winners:

Best Film: Kaathal – The Core (Director: Jeo Baby)
Best Actor (Male): Prithviraj Sukumaran (Aadujeevitham)
Best Actor (Female): Urvashi (Ullozhukku), Beena R. Chandran (Thadavu)
Best Director: Blessy (Aadujeevitham)
Second Best Film: Iratta (Director: Rohith M.G. Krishnan)
Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value: Aadujeevitham (Director: Blessy)
Best Choreography: Jishnu (Sulaikha Manzil)
Best Makeup: Ranjith Ambady (Aadujeevitham)
Best Costume: Femina Jabbar (O Baby)
Best VFX: Andrew D Cruz, Vishak Babu (2018)
Best Processing Lab/Colourist: Vaisakh Siva Ganesh (Aadujeevitham)
Special Award for Transpersons or Women: Shalini Ushadevi (Ennennum)
Jury Mention (Film): Gaganachari (Director: Arun Chandu)
Jury Mention (Actor): Krishnan (Jaivam), K.R. Gokul (Aadujeevitham), Sudhi Kozhikode (Kaathal – The Core)
Best Book on Cinema: Mazhavil Kanniloode Malayala Cinema by Kishore Kumar
Special Jury Award for Book on Cinema: Kaamanakalude Samskarika Sandarbhangal by P. Premachandran
Best Article on Cinema: Desheeyathaye Azhichedukkunna Cinemakal by M.R. Rajesh
Special Jury Award for Article on Cinema*: Film Society Prasthanam Keralathil: Charithravum Rashtreeyavum by K.R. Anoop

The Kerala State Film Awards continue to honor and celebrate the artistic achievements of the regional film industry, showcasing the diverse and dynamic nature of Malayalam cinema.

National Award-Winning Writer Sajeev Pazhoor Debuts as Director with ‘Enna Vilai’ Starring Nimisha Sajayan

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National Award-Winning Writer Sajeev Pazhoor Debuts as Director with ‘Enna Vilai’ Starring Nimisha Sajayan

Renowned actress Nimisha Sajayan is set to star in “Enna Vilai,” an ambitious Pan-Indian Tamil film directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sajeev Pazhur. Best known for his work on “Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum,” Pazhur returns with this family drama infused with thriller elements. The film is produced by Jitesh V, under the banner of Kalamaya Films.

“Enna Vilai” unfolds in the setting of Rameswaram and signifies Nimisha’s much-anticipated return to Tamil cinema after her stellar performances in “Chitta” and “Jigarthanda Double X.” She will share the screen with actor Karunas, alongside a diverse ensemble cast that includes YG Mahendran, Mota Rajendran, and Vijayalakshmi.

The film’s first shooting schedule has already been completed in Rameswaram, with subsequent scenes being filmed at Chennai Gokulam Studios, various locations around Chennai, and Ramoji Film City. The production is on track to wrap up by the end of this month.

Adding to the film’s prestige, “Enna Vilai” boasts a collaboration of top Malayali technical talents in Tamil cinema. Cinematographer Albi Antony, composer Sam CS, and editor Sreejith Sarang—known for his work on Malayalam hits such as “Por Prabham,” “Janaganamana,” and “Garudan”—are key contributors to the project.

The production team features M Sivakumar as Production Controller, K Sivakrishna as Art Director, and PC Stunts coordinating action sequences. Costume design is managed by R Muruganandam, with V. Dinesh Kumar overseeing makeup. Mukesh and Salman KM serve as Executive Producers, with Karthik AK handling still photography and R Rajiv Gandhi and P Karthi as Production Managers. Sabari has been named as the film’s PRO.

Prabhu Deva Steals the Spotlight in ‘Petta Rap’ Teaser

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Prabhu Deva Steals the Spotlight in ‘Petta Rap’ Teaser

In a dazzling display of his versatile talents, Prabhu Deva takes center stage in the newly released teaser of ‘Petta Rap’. The upcoming Tamil action-musical, directed by Sinu in his Tamil debut, promises a thrilling blend of music, dance, and intense action sequences.

Starring alongside Prabhu Deva is Vedhika, who plays the female lead in this eagerly awaited film. The supporting cast includes Vivek Prasanna, Bagavathi Perumal, Ramesh Thilak, Mime Gobi, Riyaz Khan, and Kalabhavan Shajon, each adding their flair to the narrative.

The teaser, unveiled on social media platforms by acclaimed actor Vijay Sethupathi, has already captured the attention of fans and critics alike. Known for his directorial prowess in Malayalam cinema with films like ‘Theru’ and ‘Djibouti’, director Sinu brings a fresh perspective to Tamil cinema with ‘Petta Rap’, penned by writer Dinil PK.

Music maestro D Imman’s compositions set the tone for the film, while Jithu Damodhar’s cinematography and Nishad Yusuf’s editing promise a visual treat. Produced by Jobi P Sam, ‘Petta Rap’ is slated for release later this year, raising anticipation among cinema enthusiasts eager to witness Prabhu Deva’s charismatic performance in this high-energy extravaganza.

Stay tuned as ‘Petta Rap’ gears up to hit screens, promising to be a standout addition to Tamil cinema’s diverse landscape.

Shane Nigam Stars as Romantic Lead in New Film ‘Haal’; Teaser Released

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Shane Nigam Stars as Romantic Lead in New Film ‘Haal’; Teaser Released*

The highly anticipated teaser for Shane Nigam’s latest film ‘Haal’ has been released, with a strong emphasis on its musical elements. Following his role in ‘Little Hearts,’ Nigam returns to the screen as a romantic lead in ‘Haal.’

Directed by Veera and written by Nishad Koya, ‘Haal’ is produced under the JVJ Productions banner. Koya, known for his work on films such as ‘Ordinary,’ ‘Madura Laman,’ ‘Thopil Joppan,’ and ‘Shikari Shambhu,’ adds ‘Haal’ to his repertoire.

The film is set for a simultaneous release in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, and promises to be a complete entertainer. The music for ‘Haal’ is composed by Nandagopan, with Ravi Chandran handling the cinematography and Prashant Madhav in charge of art direction. Editing is done by Akash, with costumes by Dhanya Balakrishnan and production controlled by Prashant Narayan. Makeup is by Amal Chandran, VFX by Digital Turbo Media, designs by Yellow Tooth, and stills by SBK Shuhaib. The film’s digital marketing is managed by Obscura Entertainments, with Athira Diljit as the PRO.

Turbo Review: Mammootty’s starpower and charisma drives this film smoothly

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Turbo Review: Mammootty’s starpower and charisma drives this film smoothly

It’s needless to say that Mammootty has been in tremendous form post the pandemic, shifting gears smoothly between content oriented films and entertainers. Perhaps, the only missing link was a larger than life mass film, and Turbo fills that void. And who better than Vysakh to do a mass film. After a couple of misfires, the director is in full throttle this time as he dishes out an action packed treat for the fans.

Turbo Jose, hailing from Idukki, is an impulsive do-gooder who gets into fights often. He gets into trouble while trying to help his friend Jerry, who is in a relationship with a woman named Indulekha. Because of this issue, Jose is forced to move to Chennai, where Jerry and Indu are employed in private banks. Parallely, there’s a huge scam happening with Vetrivel Shanmugam as the kingpin. Kannada actor-director Raj B Shetty plays the antagonist with sheer authority and intimidation. How Jose gets involved in this scam and his clash with Vetrivel is what the film is primarily about.

The 72 year old Mammootty shows no signs of age in Turbo as he pulls off the action sequences with absolute domination. Jose earned his monike as his punches have the power of a Turbo engine, so it’s important to make the audience feel that. Vysakh and cinematographer Vishnu Sarma convey it brilliantly by filming the punches in extreme close ups. The fight sequneces which are the major highlight of the film has been properly planned and executed. It is evident in the seamless moment in each set piece, with the last 30 minutes being the best.

Midhun Manuel Thomas has written a formulaic script with no lofty ambitions, but his belief in Mammootty’s charisma and Vysakh’s ability to enhance the action sequences is what works best in the film. While the first half is set aside for establishing Jose, his background and characteristics, in the latter half, we see a more racy narrative with complete focus on action.

Among the supporting cast, Bindu Panicker as Jose’s mother shines the best. Though her character reminds many other similar roles, especially that of Usha Uthup in Pothen Vava, Bindu Panicker brings a certain gravitas to the performance. It is not usual to see female actors getting full length roles in star vehicles, Turbo is a rarity with Anjana Jayaprakash’s character being integral throughout the film. Shabareesh Varma, Dileesh Pothan and Sunil also play their parts well.

Simply put, Turbo is a treat for Malayali action lovers, who welcomed films like Pathaan, Jawan and Jailer with both hands. The sequel only promises to be much bigger and better, with Mammootty back in full throttle.

Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil Review: A laugh riot powered by Prithviraj and Basil

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Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil Review: A laugh riot powered by Prithviraj and Basil

After the sensational success of Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, director Vipin Das joins hands with writer Deepu Pradeep, who excels in spinning fun stories around weddings. The latter has proven it with Kunjiramayanam, Padmini and Perilloor Premier League. In Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil, the focus is on Vinu’s (Basil Joseph) arranged marriage with Anjali (Anaswara Rajan).

Interestingly, Vinu is more close to Anjali’s brother Anandan (Prithviraj Sukumaran) than Anjali. Vinu, who works in Dubai, is often seen talking to Anandan over phone. He even saves his furure father-in-laws’ phone contact as Anandettan’s father. There’s a peculiar bromance between the two, around which the first half is largely centered. At a particular point, the two part ways putting the marraige on tenterhooks. From there, it is a proper Priyadarshan-style comedy (Vettam, for example) with multiple forces trying to stop the wedding and a section trying to make it happen amidst all the odds.

Basil and Prithviraj are terrific together, particularly the latter, who is not known to pull off comedy roles. The duo’s chemistry and hilarious exchanges is one of the major highlights of the film. In the second half, several new characters make their way, of which Jomon Jyothir excels. Some of his casual one liners are uproarious, making even mundane moments work.

A disappointing aspect though is the much hyped cameo by Yogi Babu. It’s a criminally underwritten character and the actor fails to offer any laughs. However, the other supporting actors, including Nikhila Vimal, Anaswara Rajan, Siju Sunny and Saafboi perform their parts well. Towards the second half, the film shifts into complete chaos mode with hundreds of junior artists amidst action, comedy and music. Vipin and team has done a wonderful job in executing these portions.

In a nutshell, Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil is a film that deserves to be enjoyed with families in the theatres. It’s a film for all sections of the audience to unwind, relax and let out some carefree laughs.

Team L360 wish Mohanlal on his birthday with a special video

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Team L360 wish Mohanlal on his birthday with a special video

With Mohnalal celebrating his birthday today, the makers of his upcoming film, L 369, have share a special video on social media. It features snippets from the shooting days with the last shot featuring Mohnalal in performance. The superstar seems to be playing an everyday man in the film as we see him in a bearded, mundu-clad look The film is directed by Tharun Moorthy, known for making Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka.

L 360 is scripted by KR Sunil. It reportedly has Mohanlal playing a driver’s role. It is film has Shobana as the female lead. She is reuniting with Mohanlal several years after working together in films like Pavithram, Manichithrathazhu, Nadodikkattu, Vellanakalude Nadu, Thenmavin Kombathu and Mambazhakkalam Farhaan Faasil, Binu Pappu, Maniyanpilla Raju, Aarsha Chandhini Baiju and Aanandam actor Thomas Mathew also star in the upcoming film.

L 360 is produced by M Renjith under the banner of Rejaputhra Visual Media. Jakes Bejoy is composing music for it.

Star-studded cast join forces with Mammootty for Turbo

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Star-studded cast join forces with Mammootty for Turbo

Amidst massive expectations, Mammootty’s Turbo is up for release tomorrow. The film, which marks the megastar’s return to mass action genre, is eagerly awaited by the fans. Along with Mammootty, the film has the presence of a solid star cast. Kannada actor-director Raj B Shetty plays the antagonist in the film. He is very famous for for his performances in films like Ondu Motteya Kathe, Garuda Gamana Vrushabha Vahana and Toby. In this film, he is playing a dominating gangster named Vetrivel. Raj’s clash with Mammootty is expected to be one of the film’s highlights.

Anjana Jayaprakash, who made heads turn with her performance in Fahadh Faasil’s Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum, is the female lead in Turbo. She plays a character named Indulekha. The cast also includes Bollywood actor Kabir Duhan Singh as Vincent, Bindu Panicker as Rosakutty, Amina Nijam as Niranjana, Sunil as Auto Billa and Shabareesh Varma as Jerry.

Turbo is directed by Vysakh, who earlier made Pokkiri Raja and its sequel Madhura Raja with Mammootty. Midhun Manuel Thomas has scripted the film as a pure mass entertainer. As per the makers, the film is doing extraordinary pre-release business with advance bookings alone going up over Rs 1 crores in record time.

Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil notches up Rs 50 crores in 5 days

Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil notches up Rs 50 crores in 5 days

Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil is doing some terrific business at the box office as the film has raked in a whopping Rs 50 crores from its first five days of global collections. With Rs 3.52 crores from its first Monday in Kerala, the film has grossed 23.50 cr in Kerala box office alone. The figures are expected to go steady despite the upcoming competition from Mammootty’s highly awaited action packed entertainer Turbo.

Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil is a wedding comedy starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Basil Joseph, Anaswara Rajan and Nikhila Vimal as the leads. It is diected by Vipin Das who last made Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey. Deepu Pradeep has scripted the film as a hilarious entertainer that appeals to audience of all age groups.

Prithviraj Productions and E4 Entertainment are jointly producing the film, which has already earned a blockbuster status. From the general response, Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil has lived up to the expectations of a fun entertainer. With an alluring star cast and no shortage of comedy, the film is drawing in crowds in large numbers, especially families who prefer to have a laugh and relax in the theatres.