In a moment of pride for the Malayalam film industry, Christo Tomy’s directorial debut, “Ullozhukku,” starring powerhouse actors Urvashi and Parvathy Thiruvothu, is all set to be showcased at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA). The film will be screened at the renowned Sunset Boulevard Theatre in Los Angeles, elevating it to an international platform. Both the director, Christo Tomy, and lead actress, Parvathy Thiruvothu, have arrived in Los Angeles to attend the much-anticipated premiere scheduled for June 29.
“Ullozhukku,” which hit theatres just last week, has already garnered a wave of positive reviews from both critics and audiences alike. The film has been performing exceptionally well at the box office and is now poised for a broader global release. Produced under the flagship of Ronnie Screwvala, Honey Trehan, and Abhishek Chaubey’s RSVP & MacGuffin Pictures, along with co-producer Sanjeev Kumar Nair from Reverie Entertainment, the movie demonstrates a confluence of remarkable production talent.
This film marks the debut of Christo Tomy in feature-length filmmaking. Prior to this, Tomy had gained recognition for his internationally acclaimed Netflix documentary “Curry & Cyanide.” The cast of “Ullozhukku” includes notable talents like Alencier Ley Lopez, Arjun Radhakrishnan, Prasanth Murali, Jaya Kurup, and Veena Nair, adding layers of depth to the film’s narrative. In addition, Sushin Shyam, a celebrated music director, has composed a soul-stirring score for the movie, elevating its emotional impact.
“Ullozhukku” is set against the backdrop of a flooded region in Kerala. This drama-mystery piece delves into the complex dynamics between a mother-in-law, played by veteran actress Urvashi, and her daughter-in-law, portrayed by Parvathy Thiruvothu, offering a gripping storyline filled with suspense. The film’s screenplay had previously garnered widespread acclaim, winning the top prize at the 2018 Cinestaan India’s Storytellers Contest. This early recognition hinted at the compelling storyline that would soon captivate wider audiences.
The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles, known for showcasing diverse Indian cinema to a global audience, provides a significant platform for “Ullozhukku.” This annual event celebrates Indian cinema and independent voices, making it a pivotal moment for the Malayalam film industry to shine on an international stage.
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Parvathy Thiruvothu, known for her powerful performances in previous films, opened up about her role in “Ullozhukku” during a recent interview. She admitted that the character she plays was one of the most challenging and intimidating roles of her career. The emotional depth and intensity required to portray her character demanded rigorous preparation and a deep understanding of the film’s complex themes. This dedication to her craft is just one of the many elements contributing to the film’s critical success.
The film’s initial box office success is also encouraging, with movie-goers appreciating the film’s distinct storytelling and stellar performances. This strong opening week suggests that “Ullozhukku” has struck a chord with regional audiences, indicating promising prospects for its global release.
The producers, Ronnie Screwvala, Honey Trehan, and Abhishek Chaubey, are no strangers to success, having a legacy of producing critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. Their involvement in “Ullozhukku” further elevates the film’s profile and expectations.
Sanclusion, the music by Sushin Shyam adds another layer of richness to “Ullozhukku.” Known for his ability to evoke deep emotions through his compositions, Shyam’s work in the film enhances the viewing experience, making the suspense and drama even more palpable.
The screening at IFFLA marks an important milestone for Malayalam cinema, known for its strong narratives and character-driven stories. “Ullozhukku” stands as a testament to the high-quality film-making emerging from this region, capable of competing on an international stage.
As “Ullozhukku” prepares for its international debut, anticipation is running high. The film’s unique story, compelling performances, and critical acclaim are set to make it a highlight of this year’s Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles. Audiences worldwide now await the opportunity to experience this poignant Malayalam drama, symbolizing a significant achievement for Indian cinema.
