Manichitrathazhu turns 30 – 5 reasons why Mohanlal-Shobana-Suresh Gopi’s classic film deserves a wide re-release

Manichitrathazhu, the classic psychological horror thriller, is unarguably one of the all-time favourite films for most of the Malayalam cinema lovers. The 1993-released blockbuster, which is helmed by the veteran filmmaker Fazil, is set to complete the 30th year of its release on December 25, 2023. Despite completing three decades of its release, the movie that features Mohanlal, Shobana, and Suresh Gopi in the lead roles, remains one of the most re-watched films in the history of the Malayalam film industry.

Recently, Manichitrathazhu had a limited re-release in Kerala’s capital city Thiruvananthapuram, during the Keraleeyam fest held on November 1, on the special occasion of Kerala Piravi. The mind-blowing audience rush during the re-release stunned the organizers, who had to increase the number of shows for the film. The cine-goers, who missed the minimal re-release, are now waiting for the makers to have a wide re-release for Manichitrathazhu.

Here we present the 5 reasons why we think Manichitrathazhu deserves to have a wide re-release, at least across Kerala on its 30th year of release. Have a look…

1. An entertainer that aged like a fine wine

Manichitrathazhu is one of those very rare vintage entertainers, which aged like a fine wine. The Fazil directorial still possesses the special ability to entertain even a film fanatic, who is revisiting the film for the nth time. The Mohanlal-Shobana-Suresh Gopi starrer still succeeds in keeping its viewers intrigued and engaged right from its beginning to the climax, without a single moment of boredom. This is a classic film for audiences across generations.

Also Read: Scream Stream: HERE's why Fazil's psychological thriller Manichitrathazhu remains a masterpiece and no remake can ever match up to it! 

2. Shobana

Well, do we need to explain this point more? The veteran actress delivered one of the finest performances of her acting career in Manichitrathazhu. Shobana even won the National Film Award and Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress, for her portrayal of the central character Ganga, who adapts the personality of the Tamil dancer Nagavalli. Even though Manichitrathazhu was remade several times in all major Indian languages, the senior actress’s performance as the central character is still considered the finest. It is still a dream of Shobana's fans who missed Manichitrathazhu in theatres, to watch their idol as Ganga and Nagavalli on the big screen.

3. Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, and the camaraderie

It is an absolute pleasure to watch Mohanlal as psychiatrist Dr. Sunny and Suresh Gopi as the doting husband Nakulan, in Manichitrathazhu. The Malayalam superstar played the oddball Sunny to near perfection and excelled like no other in the comedy scenes. The actor-MP, on the other hand, brought a smile to our faces with his portrayal of the vulnerable and loyal Nakulan. And most importantly, the fantastic camaraderie between the National Award-winning actors is an absolute treat to watch.

Also Read: Scream Stream: The Mohanlal, Shobana starrer Manichitrathazhu creates impact even after 28 years of its release 

4. Filmmaking and technical excellence that withstood the test of time

Well, the infamous Thekkini room and the eerie background score composed by MG Radhakrishnan that comes even at the slightest mention of it, still sends chills down the spine of any Malayalam cinema lover who grew up loving Manichitrathazhu. Director Fazil and writer Madhu Muttom created an unmatched cinematic experience that frightened, intrigued, and entertained viewers for over three decades.

The exceptionally talented technical team of the film created most of the haunted Madampalli Tharavadu in the Tripunithura Hill Palace and Padmanabhapuram Palace. However, the Thekkini room was created inside the Vasan House, in Chennai. Even though the technology was minimal at that point, it never diluted the wholesome cinematic experience created by Manichitrathazhu, even for even today’s generation. The stunning visuals, haunting background score, and memorable songs make this multi-starrer a complete visual spectacle.

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5. The stellar supporting cast and performances

Innocent’s Unnithan and KPAC Lalitha’s Bhasura remain my favorite pair from the film. The late legendary actors stole the show with their impeccable chemistry and comic timing. The rest of the star cast, including Nedumudi Venu, Thilakan, Kuthiravattam Pappu, Vinaya Prasad, Ganesh Kumar, Sudheesh, Rudra, Kuttyedathi Vilasini, Sridhar, and others, also equally shined in their respective roles, and provided some of the most memorable moments, which we would love to revisit on the silver screen once again.

Well, for all readers who are tempted to revisit Manichitrathazhu now, the Fazil directorial is currently streaming on the renowned OTT platforms Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ Hotstar. A remastered print of the classic psychological horror movie is also available on YouTube for streaming.

Also Read: Malikapurram To Manichitrathazhu, Malayalam Cinema's Tryst With Faith & The Fantastical