The Kerala State film awards for the year 2007 are out. And there were a few surprises. The first one was a biggie -- best film award, which went to M G Sasi’s Adayalangal (Signs). The director also won an award for best direction.
The jury's choice (headed by well known Assamese director Janu Barua) for best film came as a shock for many as Adoor Gopalakrishnan's Naalu Pennungal was a strong contender.
It is heartening to note that Kerala still encourages off-beat and experimental films, which is the main reason why even today, filmmakers courageously experiment in Malayalam.
Incidentally of the four actors who won the state awards, three -- Mohanlal, Meera Jasmine and Murali -- are all national award winners.
Here's a look at the other winners:
Best Actor: Mohanlal for his role in Paradesi
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Mohanlal won the award for his superb portrayal of Valiyadathu Moosa, an 80-year old Malayali who waged a long battle with the Indian authorities for the right to live in his own native place.
Not once did Mohanlal falter in his body language as he shuttled between a 35-year old to an 80-year old.
Director K T Kujnimohammed summed it best when he said, "I chose Mohanlal because he is Mohanlal. In this film, he is 35-years old, 40-years old, 50-years old and in most of the film, he is 80! Who else can portray such range?"
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