Most Indian film industries are facing the challenge of consistently producing successful movies, but Kerala seems to have cracked the code with a string of critically acclaimed hits. Manjummel Boys, Premalu, Bramayugam, and The Goat Life have all resonated with audiences beyond the borders of Kerala, particularly in Tamil Nadu.
Director and actor Vineeth Sreenivasan expressed his gratitude towards the Tamil audience for embracing Malayalam cinema. He acknowledged the increasing trend of audiences from two-tier cities going to theatres to watch Malayalam films, a shift that has not gone unnoticed.
The success of Manjummel Boys, currently the highest-grossing Malayalam film, in Tamil Nadu is a testament to the growing popularity of Malayalam cinema in the state. With houseful shows not only in Chennai but also in districts across Tamil Nadu, the film has raked in an impressive box office collection of Rs 220 crore.
Vineeth Sreenivasan attributed this cross-state appeal to the cultural familiarity shared between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. He noted how Tamil films are often watched without subtitles in Kerala, showcasing a mutual understanding between the two regions. This mutual appreciation has fueled the success of Malayalam films like Premam and Hridayam in Tamil Nadu.
Looking ahead, there is a palpable excitement surrounding Vineeth Sreenivasan’s upcoming film, Varshangalkku Shesham, among the Tamil audience. The movie, set in Chennai like his previous film Hridayam, follows the journey of two aspiring filmmakers from Kerala in the 80s. With actors like Pranav Mohanlal, Dhyan Sreenivasan, and Nivin Pauly on board, the film is set to hit theaters on April 11.
In a recent interview, Vineeth Sreenivasan acknowledged the role of OTT platforms in expanding the reach of Malayalam films. The accessibility provided by streaming services has exposed a wider audience to Malayalam cinema, contributing to its increasing popularity outside Kerala.
As Vineeth Sreenivasan expressed his gratitude towards the Tamil audience for their support, he also highlighted the positive reception of Malayalam films in theaters beyond Kerala. With films like Manjummel Boys breaking barriers and paving the way for more successful releases, the future looks bright for Malayalam cinema in Tamil Nadu.