Eight esteemed directors and an anthology based on nine stories from the cherished Malayalam writer, MT Vasudevan Nair — that’s the formula that has catapulted “Manorathangal” (Mindscapes) into one of the most awaited releases in Malayalam cinema.
With an ensemble of notable directors such as Priyadarshan, B Ranjith, Santosh Sivan, Shyamaprasad, Jayaraj, Mahesh Narayanan, Rathish Ambat, and Aswathy V Nair, “Manorathangal” promises a rich tapestry of narratives, all of which are adaptations of MT’s literary masterpieces. These directors convey that working on scripts by the venerable Malayalam author and scenarist was both a rare honor and a profound experience.
The anthology features a stellar cast of top actors from the Malayalam film industry, ensuring the richness of the visual storytelling matches the literary depth. The stories are set against various backdrops from the U.S., Sri Lanka, Kolkata, to the rustic landscapes of Kerala, offering a diverse cultural palette.
Dancer and choreographer Aswathy Nair, who also happens to be MT’s daughter, recounted how the idea of the anthology took shape during the extended lockdown period when everyone turned to OTT platforms for solace and entertainment. It was while watching a series based on Rabindranath Tagore’s stories that the seed of “Manorathangal” was planted.
“I started contemplating an anthology based on my father’s stories. They have gripping narratives that would translate beautifully on screen,” says Aswathy, who also serves as the creative director for “Manorathangal”. Given her father’s advanced age of 90, Aswathy figured that a three-hour screenplay would be too taxing. Instead, an anthology seemed both feasible and engaging, a sentiment MT readily agreed to. The selection of stories underwent a rigorous filtration process—whittling down from 50 to 20, and finally with MT’s input, they zeroed in on nine.
These stories capture the psychological and social landscapes of their characters with MT’s signature finesse. Many of MT’s earlier works explore the disintegration of matrilineal joint families in Malabar, depicting social and emotional transformations in post-Independence India. MT excels at drawing out the internal and external milieus his characters inhabit.
Among the featurettes in the anthology is “Olavum Theeravum,” directed by Priyadarshan with Mohanlal in the lead role, originally a classic film from 1970. Priyadarshan also directs “Shilalikhitham,” a poignant story headlined by Biju Menon, Shanti Krishna, and Joy Mathew.
. Priyadarshan revels in the laudatory feedback he received from MT, which moved him deeply.
Jayaraj, another seasoned director, helms “Swargam Thurakkunna Samayam,” a retelling of a story previously adapted into the 1984 classic “Aalkkoottathil Thaniye”. Jayaraj shares how MT’s stories, particularly this one, remain relevant and continue to resonate with audiences. The movie features Nedumudi Venu in a striking role among an ensemble cast of Indrans, Renji Panicker, and others.
Ranjith brings to life “Kadugannava Oru Yathra Kurippu,” a semi-autobiographical account, starring Mammootty. Shot in Sri Lanka, the narrative interweaves familial memories and personal introspection.
Santosh Sivan, who also handles cinematography for Priyadarshan’s segment, directs “Abhayam Thedi,” casting Siddique. Sivan speaks fondly of MT, whom he regards as a family friend, and appreciates the timeless relevance of MT’s stories.
Debutant director Aswathy Nair makes her mark with “Vilpana,” starring Asif Ali and Madhoo. The film, set in Kolkata, delves into themes of relationships and personal liberation.
Shyamaprasad, an expert in relationship dramas, directs “Kazhcha,” starring actress Parvathy Thiruvothu. The plot revolves around Sudha, a singer confronting societal expectations upon her return to her roots.
Mahesh Narayanan, who ventures back into cinematography, directs “Sherlock,” a much-lauded story featuring Fahadh Faasil and Nadia Moidu. Shot in Calgary due to travel restrictions, the story examines themes of surveillance and modern loneliness.
Finally, Rathish Ambat directs “Kadalkattu,” a complex tale of interpersonal relationships, starring Indrajith and Aparna Balamurali. The storyline explores the dynamics of a family divided by geographical and emotional distances.
The production journey of “Manorathangal,” which took four years to materialize, involved a collaborative effort led by Aswathy and producer Sudheer Ambalappad, under the aegis of their company News Value Productions in association with Yoodlee Films. The anthology is set to premiere on ZEE5 on August 15.
“Manorathangal” honors MT Vasudevan Nair’s storytelling legacy, bridging generations and reaffirming the timeless allure of his work.
