National Film Awards 2023: The National Film Awards stands as a preeminent event within India, bestowing accolades upon the finest achievements in the realm of Indian cinema. The identities of the triumphant individuals will be disclosed this evening, August 24, during a press gathering hosted in New Delhi. This much-anticipated occasion will herald a significant encounter between the sphere of regional cinema and the Bollywood realm. A multitude of Malayalam films are positioned as strong contenders for the esteemed honors, notably ‘Nayattu’, ‘Minnal Murali’, and ‘Meppadiyan’.
MAJOR IMPACT OF MALAYALAM FILMS AT THE NATIONAL FILM AWARDS
The National Film Awards have been notably influenced by productions from the South this time around. In accordance with reports, the Malayalam cinematic creation ‘Nayattu’ has the potential to secure a momentous victory for actor Joju George, who emerges as a robust contender for the coveted Best Actor recognition.
In addition, R Madhavan’s directorial venture, ‘Rocketry: The Nambi Effect’, emerges as another formidable candidate across a multitude of categories. Madhavan himself is also in the running for the Best Actor award. Another Southern production that holds great promise at the awards is ‘Minnal Murali’, under the direction of Basil Joseph.
Concurrently, the race for the Best Actress award features Alia Bhatt and Kangana Ranaut vying for the title with their roles in ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ and ‘Thalaivi’, respectively.
UNVEILING ‘NAYATTU’
The term ‘Nayattu’, meaning ‘hunting’ in Malayalam, characterizes a socio-political thriller filled with suspense. This creation, directed by Martin Prakkat, casts Joju George in the role of Maniyan, a senior police officer. Kunchacko Boban and Nimisha Sajayan are also featured in pivotal roles.
The film’s narrative revolves around the pursuit of three police officers who become pawns in the game of vote bank politics during a by-election. The story delves into the lives of Manian (Joju George), an Assistant Sub-Inspector with twenty years of service, Praveen Michael (Kunchacko Boban), a Civil Police Officer who rejoins the force in a new precinct, and Sunitha (Nimisha Sajayan), a woman Civil Police Officer.
The storyline of ‘Nayattu’ was penned by Shahi Kabir following the success of his debut film ‘Joseph’, which was warmly received by audiences. Cinematographer Shyju Khalid masterfully captured the visuals, while the editing was skillfully overseen by National Award-winning director Mahesh Narayanan.