Premalu: Rediscovering the Charm of Old-School Romance
Hello romance enthusiasts! Are you tired of the flood of crime thrillers, biopics, and period films? Yearning for some good old love stories that will make your heart skip a beat? Well, you’re in luck because the world of Malayalam cinema has just what you need.
While the entertainment industry may have shifted its focus to various genres, romance movies continue to find a special place in the hearts of viewers. In the realm of Mollywood, where timeless romantic classics like ‘Thoovanathumbikal’, ‘Nammukku Parkkan Munthirithoppukal’, and ‘Anubandham’ were born, love still reigns supreme. Though the landscape of romantic films has evolved over time, the essence of pure love remains intact.
Gone are the days when romance was merely a subplot in socially-relevant films. The 2000s ushered in a new era of storytelling with college-centric love sagas that resonated with the younger generation. One such iconic film is Alphonse Puthren’s ‘Premam’ (2015), which catapulted the romance genre to new heights not just in Malayalam cinema but also across various film industries. The endearing portrayal of George David by Nivin Pauly won hearts as he traversed the journey from adolescence to adulthood, capturing the emotions of viewers. And who can forget Malar, the crush that stole the spotlight and became a favorite among fans?
In 2015, ‘Ennu Ninte Moideen’, directed by R.S. Vimal, took the audience by storm with its poignant love story based on true events. This modern-day classic touched the hearts of viewers with its gripping narrative and stellar performances.
While classics will always have a special place in our hearts, it’s essential to embrace new and unique romantic tales that explore different facets of love. One such gem is ‘Pranaya Vilasam’ (2023), directed by Nikhil Murali. This movie delves into three distinct romantic relationships among individuals of different age groups. Although it initially received average box office numbers, it gained immense popularity when it started streaming on a major OTT platform. Audiences were captivated by its fresh theme and unconventional treatment, brought to life by talented actors like Arjun Ashokan, Anaswara Rajan, and Hakkim Shah.
‘Akbare Akbar’, directed by debutant Akhil Sathyan, and ‘RDX’, helmed by Nihaz Hidayat, are two other movies that deserve a special mention. With their relatable characters and heartwarming romantic moments, they successfully struck a chord with the viewers.
So, this Valentine’s Day, why not take a trip down memory lane with the timeless love stories of Malayalam cinema? From the magical world of ‘Premam’ to the enchanting ‘Ohm Shanthi Oshaana’, let the power of love and emotions sweep you off your feet. Get ready for Premalu: a celebration of love, passion, and undying romance!
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of Onmanorama.