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Filmmaker K G George, whose work defied convention and left an indelible imprint on Malayalam cinema, died on Sunday in Kerala’s Kakkanad. He was 77.
With his audacious exploration of modern themes that were largely untouched at the time in the Malayalam film industry, George was seen as a pioneer who ventured into uncharted territory by putting the focus on issues such as patriarchy, and delving into the complexities of contemporary life.
His directorial debut, Swapnadanam (1976), was not only a commercial success, but also a critical achievement. Released in an era dominated by the vibrant colours and song-and-dance sequences typical of popular cinema, this black-and-white marvel defied conventions, offering audiences a profound and thought-provoking marital psychodrama.
From the beginning, he demonstrated a willingness to break free from the familiar tropes of Indian cinema, and move towards exploring the raw and often uncomfortable realities of daily life.
Among George’s most influential works was the psychological drama Irakal. Released in 1985, the movie – still considered a benchmark in Malayalam cinema – explored the darkest recesses of the human psyche as it unravelled the complexities of its characters. The enduring impact of the groundbreaking psychological thriller is evident in more recent films as well, particularly with Dileesh Pothan’s critically acclaimed Joji (2021), which drew inspiration from George’s distinctive storytelling.
Another one of his towering achievements, Yavanika (1982), which famously employed the Rashomon Effect, is often celebrated as one of the finest mystery and investigative thrillers the Malayalam film industry has ever seen. Other films of his, such as Adaminte Variyellu (1983s) and Mattoral (1988), have also been considered classics.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said George’s death was an irreparable loss to the Malayalam film industry. In a Facebook post, Vijayan said there were not many directors who handled different themes in their films like George did.
Born in Pathanamthitta in 1946, George honed his craft at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune. While his contemporaries like Adoor Gopalakrishnan and G Aravindan enjoyed widespread recognition, his contribution to the Malayalam film industry during a career spanning nearly three decades was equally profound. By moving away from the confines of traditional storytelling and commercial formulas, and addressing topics that were often considered taboo, his work succeeded in provoking deeper discussions on film among the public. His cinematic vision was a bridge between the art-house and mainstream, making his films accessible to a wide audience while maintaining their artistic integrity.
He was unafraid to confront the issue of patriarchy in his films – a subject largely untouched in his time – and his movies often portrayed women with sensitivity and progressiveness.
George has received numerous accolades, including nine Kerala State Film Awards and the prestigious JC Daniel Prize instituted by the Kerala government.
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Malayalam superstar Mammootty said in a documentary about the director: “Of all the directors I have seen in my career, George was the best actor. He used to act out every scene before the actors.” George’s movies played a key role in Mammootty’s rise as a star, with the actor featuring in several of his films, including Mela (1980), Yavanika, and Adaminte Vaariyellu.
In the age of the internet and digital communication, George’s films take viewers back to a time when relationships thrived through handwritten letters. His keen ability to capture the nuances of Malayali middle-class life resonates with audiences today as it did decades ago.
George is survived by his wife, playback singer Salma, and two children.
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