Jack & Jill to Urumi: 5 Must Watch Malayalam Movies Of Santosh Sivan

This sci-fi drama directed by Santosh Sivan, released in 2021. The story revolves around a young scientist named Kesh and his humanoid robot creation, Kuttaps. Together, they embark on a mission to fulfill Kesh's father's invention, Jack and Jill. With the assistance of his friends, Kesh sets up a laboratory in a forest and selects Parvathy as a test subject. However, as the experiment progresses, Parvathy's involvement leads to escalating troubles, putting the project's success at risk. Filled with humor and emotion, the film presents a charming narrative of self-discovery and friendship, elevated by exceptional performances and Santosh Sivan's direction.

Directed by Santosh Sivan, 'Anandabhadram' stands as a milestone in Malayalam cinema, marking Sivan's directorial debut in the industry. Released in 2005, the film is celebrated as one of the best fantasy movies in Malayalam cinema history. Set against the backdrop of a mystical village in Kerala, 'Anandabhadram' weaves a captivating tale of ancient legends, supernatural occurrences, and human emotions. Featuring Prithviraj and Kavya Madhavan in the lead roles, the duo grabbed the audience's attention with their sizzling on-screen chemistry. The film's standout performance came from Manoj K. Jayan, whose portrayal of a black magic practitioner left a lasting impression on viewers.

Talking about its cinematography, 'Anandabhadram' boasts visually stunning imagery, thanks to Santosh Sivan's artistic vision and mastery behind the camera. Each frame is meticulously crafted, enhancing the mystical atmosphere and immersing audiences in the fantastical world of the film.

Set in 1930s colonial India, the film follows the story of a British plantation owner named Henry Moores, played by Linus Roache, who embarks on a forbidden affair with his housemaid, Sajani, portrayed by Nandita Das. Their relationship becomes increasingly complicated as tensions rise among the local villagers and colonial authorities. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the clash of cultures against the backdrop of a lush and picturesque Kerala landscape. The movie helmed by Santosh Sivan, which debuted in 2007, was released in two languages, Malayalam and English.

Santhosh Sivan received the National Film Award for Best Cinematography for his work on the movie 'Kalapani' (1996). Directed by Priyadarshan, the film is a historical drama set in the British colonial era, depicting the struggles of Indian prisoners in the Cellular Jail. Sivan's cinematography expertly captured the prison's grim realities and the beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, enhancing the film's emotional depth and impact. This accolade solidified Sivan's status as one of India's foremost cinematographers.

'Urumi' is a historical drama directed by Santosh Sivan, released in 2011. Set in the 16th century, the film follows legendary warrior Chirakkal Kelu Nayanar, portrayed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, seeking revenge against Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, played by Alexx O'Nell. Kelu forms an alliance with warriors like Ayesha (Genelia D'Souza) and Vavvali (Prabhu Deva) to achieve his mission, blending history, action, and fantasy. Praised for its lavish production, stunning cinematography, and gripping storytelling, 'Urumi' explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and resistance against oppression.