No superstar movies during 2024 Onam; Crisis looms in Malayalam film industry

KOCHI: Unlike in recent years, this year’s Onam will be quite dismal for movie aficionados in Kerala. Four films are waiting to be released during Onam which include Tovino Thomas' multilingual film (ARM), Antony Varghese Pepe’s 'Kondal', Asif Ali's 'Kishkindhakandam' and Rahman's 'Bad Boys'.

Onam in Mollywood would normally be packed with a superstar film's release and this year will surely be an anomaly.

Mohanlal’s directorial debut ‘Barroz’ and Mammootty’s awaited ‘Bazooka’ will reach the audience only in October. The recent flops in the Malayalam box office amidst the shocking Hema committee report have also forced a few filmmakers to change their earlier scheduled Onam releases.

Cine Exhibitors Association President Shaji Vishwanath expressed worry about the current state of Malayalam cinema.

The apprehension among famous actors to appear before media for movie promotions has been palpable since the Hema committee report’s release. Many actors are now backing out from movie promotions, in fear of getting riled by media. Theatrical success is crucial for OTT sales, and the desultory air within the industry after the Hema committee report have already started giving headaches to producers.

January to May 2024 was a golden period for Malayalam movies. More than 800 crores of theatre income were generated during this time. However, the condition turned pathetic from worse post-May of this year. Even, actor Vijay’s ‘GOAT’ which came amidst much ado failed to click a chord among the public.

“We are not expecting anything big. Things can only change if some small budget movies pull off some surprise and bring the audience to theatres,” said K. Vijayakumar, President of FEUOK.