Shruthi Sharanyam on 55th Kerala State Film Awards: 'Jury took a male-centric approach...'| Exclusive

Filmmaker Shruthi Sharanyam, who is well-known for her work B 32 Muthal 44 Vare, stated in an exclusive conversation with OTTplay that the jury used a male-centric way of selecting the winners.

Shruthi Sharanyam

On November 3, Mollywood's best films of 2024 were honoured at the 55th Kerala State Film Awards. Even if the majority of the award winners were deemed worthy, many disagree, pointing out that there were more deserving recipients. Filmmaker Shruthi Sharanyam, who is well-known for her work B 32 Muthal 44 Vare, stated in an exclusive conversation with OTTplay that the jury used a male-centric way of selecting the winners.

'Dissatisfied with some of the awards'

The director began by expressing her dissatisfaction with the Kerala State Film Awards' winners' list this year. "It seemed to be an act that mostly encouraged masculine gazing. Additionally, it was disheartening to see internationally acclaimed films being either overlooked or only received an award, she remarked.

Shruthi continued by saying that films like All We Imagine As Light and Feminichi Fathima should be given more credit rather than being limited to one or two categories. She further underlined that the 2024 Malayalam movie Victoria, which won many accolades at international film festivals, was likewise entirely disregarded by the jury. "The success of a movie like Victoria is solely down to the commitment and hard work of its director, Sivaranjini. In addition to its story, Meenakshi Jayan, the actress, received global recognition for her role in it," she said. "All these films delivered an impressive concept and performances while being made with minimal budget. Therefore, they deserve appreciation".

Also Read: 55th Kerala State Film Awards: Here's where to watch Bramayugam, Manjummel Boys and other award-winning movies online

'Independent cinema needs more space'

Shruthi talked about how Kerala State Chalachithra Academy needs to concentrate on setting up juries that equally value independent films. "Neither OTT platforms nor huge production banners support us. The state government-funded films have their own restrictions, and the creators must work diligently to make their work acknowledged', she stated. "The sensibility of the jury is evident in the 55th Kerala State Film Awards. There are always differences in opinion every year, but the unfairness in the recent one was evident," the director went on. She went on to say that many people are misquoting her opinions and that, as a filmmaker, these are all her objections. "I respect this prestigious award, but as a filmmaker with a deep passion for this craft, I think I have the right to express my opinions."

FAQs

Q. Who has won the Kerala Best Actor Award?

A. Mammootty has won the Best Actor Award at the 55th Kerala State Film Awards, announced on Monday by the government. The veteran actor won the award for the performance in Bramayugam.

Q. Who is the Best Actress in Kerala State Film Awards?

A. Shamla Hamza wins the Best Actress Award for the critically acclaimed film Feminichi Fathima.

Q. When is Victoria theatrical release?

A. Malayalam film, Victoria, will release in theatres in November.

Q. Who are the actors in Victoria?

A. Important roles in Victoria are played by Meenakshi Jayan, Sreeshma Chandran, Jolly Chirayath, Steeja Mary, Darsana Vikas, Jeena Rajeev, and Remadevi.

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