90s Malayalam Movies vs 2020s The Malayalam industry is known for its distinctive style of storytelling, memorable characters, and deep emotions. While putting the 90s on one scale and the 2020s on the other, it’s almost like comparing two gorgeous, yet different canvases-one painted with simplicity and raw emotions, and the other with bold ideas and modern techniques.
Let’s dive into how Malayalam cinema has evolved over these two fascinating decades.
90’s Malayalam Films: A Golden Era of Simplicity
The 1990s are often celebrated as the golden era of Malayalam cinema. These movies were driven by strong narratives and relatable characters, often set against the backdrop of small towns and everyday life.
Storytelling at its Best:
90s Malayalam Movies vs 2020s Films from the 90’s like Kireedam, Kouravar, and Bharatham concentrated themes of love, family ties and individual crises. It was all about raw emotions and characters that were so real, which the situations touched the heart.
Technical Constraints, Creative Genius:
The directors didn’t have the sophisticated visual effects or digital facilities. Instead, they relied on good scripts, great performances, and impactful background scores. Take the case of Manichitrathazhu, which became iconic not because of the flashy visuals but for its gripping storyline and great performances.
Relatable and Grounded:
The 90s movies had a pace that allowed viewers to immerse themselves in the story. Whether it was the struggles of a young man in Kireedam or the poetic romance of Thanmathra, these films felt like reflections of real life, which is why they continue to resonate with audiences.
2020’s Malayalam Films: Bold and Experimental
Malayalam cinema has experienced a sudden change wave in the 2020s. Today’s films move beyond mere storytelling and engage in the pursuit of fresh ideas, perspectives, and technical brilliance.
A New Wave of Themes:
Themes of Malayalam films have moved towards diversification, dealing with mental health (Kumbalangi Nights), survival (Jallikattu), and societal issues (The Great Indian Kitchen). Storytelling is sharper, with layered narratives and characters that break free from stereotypes.
Technical Excellence:
Advances in cinema equipment have raised the cinematic standards of Malayalam films. Such movies as C U Soon, which were shot on smartphones throughout the pandemic, serve as an example of creative utilization of technology. As is the case with Minnal Murali, which popularized the superhero genre in Malayalam cinema in a unique manner, the entire narration has been visualized.
The 2020s have also seen Malayalam films gaining international acclaim. Movies like Jallikattu were India’s official entry to the Oscars, while platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime have made Malayalam cinema accessible to a global audience.
What Sets These Eras Apart?
1. Themes and Storytelling:
– 90s: Rooted in emotions, relationships, and realistic situations.
– 2020s: Exploring broader subjects, multi-layered storylines and global themes.
2. Technology and Visuals
– 90s: Mainly used practical effects and shoot on actual locations.
– *2020s*: Adoption of CGI, digital cinematography and latest technology being used.
3. Audience Expectation
– 90s: more interested in plots that the audience could relate to in local and everyday life.
– 2020s: Appeals to both local and global viewers with universal themes.
Timelessness vs Modernity
90s Malayalam Movies vs 2020s While the 90s gave us classics that stand the test of time, the 2020s have expanded the boundaries of Malayalam cinema. The former evokes nostalgia with its heartwarming simplicity, and the latter amazes with its boldness and innovation.
But at the bottom of it all, both are celebrations of the beauty of storytelling. A film like Bharatham is as seismic a film as *The Great Indian Kitchen* is, in different measures. Both come back to the reason why Malayalam cinema is so magical-it can change and remain unchanged at the same time.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Two Eras
90s Malayalam Movies vs 2020s Rather than comparing these decades to declare a winner, let’s cherish the richness they bring to Malayalam cinema. Revisit a classic 90s film today and marvel at its simplicity, then watch a 2020s masterpiece to appreciate its innovation. After all, both eras have one thing in common—the power to move us.