In 4K, Malayalam’s Timeless Classic Manichitrathazhu To Hit Theatres Again
After Mohanlal’s 2000 cult classic Devadoothan, it’s time for enjoying another timeless classic of Mohanlal in theatres now: this time it is Mohanlal-Shobana-Suresh Gopi starrer Fazil psychological horror thriller Manichitrathazhu (The Ornate Lock). The 4K remastered version of the critically acclaimed and box office hit movie will be screened in theatres again from August 17. Mohanlal, who then went on to work with the maverick director in Harikrishnans, Life is beautiful and Vismayathumbath, has released the trailer of the movie on social media and said “Presenting the official trailer of Malayalam’s timeless classic, Manichitrathazhu.”
How Manichitrathazhu changed Malayalam film industry
It was Fazil who introduced Mohanlal into the film world with his 1980 movie Manjil Virinja Pookkal. Later, before creatimg history with Manichitrathazhu, they had worked together in notable movies like Dhanya, Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu and Ente Mamattikuttiyammakku. The 1993 movie went on to win National Film Awards for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Actress (Shobana) and Kerala State Film Awards for Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value, Best Actress (Shobana) and Best Makeup Artist. The accolades did not stop there. It is the 10th ranked Indian movie in IMDB and the only Malayalam movie in top 10 with an 8.7 rating.
The movie, which has become part of Malyali’s cultural life with its dialogues and characters, records maximum TRP ratings on Television even two decades after its actual release. The movie was remade into Kannada as Apthamitra (Vishnuvardhan, Soundarya), in Tamil as Chandramukhi (Rajinikanth, Jyothika), in Bengali as Rajmohol (Prosenjit Chatterjee, Anu Choudhury), and in Hindi as Bhool Bhulaiyaa (Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan), and all of them turned out as box office hits. Some surveys have also counted the one time story wonder of writer Madhu Muttam as among the top Indian movies.
The aesthetics of Manichitrathazhu
The movie, produced by Swargachitra Appachan, celebrated for its intricate blend of aesthetics, classical art, and psychological depth. The story which is based out of Kerala’s Alappuzha has left an indelible mark on audiences for its innovative narrative, brilliant direction, and outstanding performances. For the fans, enthusiasts and critics, this film is not merely a horror story; it’s an exploration of human psychology, tradition, and the clash between modernity and age-old beliefs.
The aesthetic appeal of Manichitrathazhu is deeply rooted in its classical representations, particularly through its use of traditional Kerala architecture, art, and music. The film is set in a majestic, centuries-old mansion, which is both a character and a setting in the story. The grandeur of the naalukettu (a traditional Kerala house with a central courtyard) with its intricate woodwork, antique furnishings, and sprawling interiors creates a hauntingly beautiful backdrop that is central to the film’s eerie atmosphere. The Thekkini, the forbidden room in the mansion, is shrouded in mystery and is depicted with meticulous attention to detail, enhancing the suspense and the cultural richness of the narrative.
The film’s aesthetic excellence is further amplified by its classical dance and music sequences, which are integral to the storyline. The Bharatanatyam performance by Nagavalli, the film’s tragic and vengeful alter ego of the protagonist Ganga, is not just a dance but a symbolic representation of repressed emotions and historical trauma. The music by MG Radhakrishnan, especially the hauntingly beautiful song “Oru Murai Vanthu Parthaya,” remains iconic, blending classical ragas with the film’s somber tone. The soundtrack, rich in traditional Carnatic music, is woven seamlessly into the narrative, reinforcing the film’s exploration of identity, memory, and tradition.
Director Fazil’s vision in Manichitrathazhu, according to many critics, is ahead of its time, offering a psychological thriller that transcends the typical horror genre, and the movie is still placed among the top Malayalam horror movies of all time. The film’s narrative structure is sophisticated, with a nonlinear approach that gradually reveals the complexities of the characters and the haunting past of the mansion. Fazil, with the benefit of excellent writing or Madhu Muttam, masterfully balances the supernatural elements with psychological realism, creating a story that is both unsettling and intellectually stimulating. His direction allows the film to delve deep into themes of mental illness, cultural conflict, and the power of belief, all while maintaining an engaging and suspenseful plot.
Fazils composed presentation was authentically complimented by master cinematographers like Venu, Anandakuttan and Sunny Joseph.
Never seen acting acting
The acting in Manichitrathazhu is another cornerstone of its success. Shobana’s portrayal of Ganga/Nagavalli is nothing short of extraordinary. She brings a duality to her character, seamlessly shifting from the demure, modern Ganga to the fiery, vengeful Nagavalli. Shobana’s performance is marked by a nuanced understanding of her character’s psychological depth, capturing the internal struggle and the eventual breakdown that leads to her becoming Nagavalli. Her performance in the climax, where she fully embodies the spirit of Nagavalli, is intense, captivating, and has become legendary in Indian cinema. This role earned her the National Film Award for Best Actress and gave the actress a legendary status among the top performers of the Southern industry. It was talk of the town when talented actors like Vidya Balan and Jyotika failed to live up to the standard Shobana set in the original. Interestingly, now Ganga and Nagavalli returns to every Malayali’s space on each hour as reels and dubsmashes.
Mohanlal, playing Dr Sunny Joseph, offers a contrasting, light-hearted, yet deeply insightful portrayal of a psychologist. His character is the rational anchor of the film, using humor and wit to navigate the dark and complex situation. Mohanlal’s performance is subtle, providing a calm, methodical presence that contrasts with the escalating tension around him.
Supporting actors like Suresh Gopi, Nedumudi Venu, Innocent, Pappu, KPAC Lalitha, Vinaya Prasad, Thilakan among others also deliver commendable performances, adding depth to the film’s narrative. The ensemble cast works in harmony, each contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Enjoy the 4K Dolby Atmos version of the movie in theatres near you from August 17.
