Malayalam cinema is currently witnessing a trend of re-releases, and now, yet another classic is set to return to the big screens. The evergreen Malayalam film Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha is making its way back to theaters, this time in 4K visual splendor. Originally released in 1989, the film is being re-released after 35 years.
This movie holds the distinction of winning Mammootty the National Award for Best Actor. In addition, it bagged numerous awards for its exceptional screenplay, production design, and costume design (by P. Krishnamoorthy). Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha won 4 National Film Awards and 8 Kerala State Film Awards, making it a pride of Malayalam cinema. Ahead of its re-release, Mammootty shared a special video message to express his excitement.
He said, "Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha is a film that brought many accolades, both for Malayalam cinema and for me personally. Scripted by the beloved M.T. Vasudevan Nair, directed by Hariharan, and produced by Grihalakshmi Productions, the film originally released in 1989. Now, it’s returning to theaters with the latest in technical advancements."
Mammootty also mentioned that P.V. Gangadharan (PVG) had long wished to see the film re-released in 4K Atmos, and that they had discussed it often. "For some reason, it didn’t happen back then. But today, his children are realizing his dream," Mammootty remarked in the video.
He further added that the film has been prepared in a way that allows previous audiences to relive the magic and new audiences to experience it with enhanced visuals and sound. Based on three northern ballads, M.T.’s screenplay for Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha was directed by Hariharan, with Mammootty playing the role of Chandu. Madhavi portrayed Unniyarcha in the film. Besides Mammootty, the cast included Balan K. Nair, Suresh Gopi, Madhavi, Geetha, and Captain Raju in pivotal roles. Mammootty won the National Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Chandu.
Previously, Mammootty’s film Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha was also re-released. Other films featuring him, like Aavanazhi and Amaram, are also gearing up for re-release.
