62nd National Film Awards: Mollywood fails to make an impact

As far as Mollywood is concerned, it could not shine much at 62nd National Film Awards and bagged just four honours. For an industry that has been vigour for decades, Tuesday was not exactly a day to remember. “There is no doubt about the fact that the quality of Malayalam cinema is coming down, even as the quantity is on the rise,” says veteran director Harikumar, adding, “About 150 films were released last year, of which some 50 competed for the awards. Only a handful of them had any chance of winning.”

Source: mathrubhumi.com

Jayaraj’s Ottal won the award for the best environmental film. Joshy Mangalethu also got the best screenplay award for the same film. "The story is an adaptation of an 18th century work that tells the tale of child labour. I dedicate this award to the numerous child labourers whose life is a nightmare," said five-time National Award winner Jayaraj.

Ain received the Best Feature Film in Malayalam and actor Mustafa bagged a Special Jury Mention for the same film. "Right from the time the shooting of the film began, it was tough for us. I remember my mom used to prepare food for us and it was only in the nick of the time that we could send the film for the awards. Am so happy, I got this one and also it is the Best Feature Film in Malayalam," said Mustafa. The Best Background Score award went to Gopi Sunder for ‘1983’.