Horror film 'Vadakkan' is rooted in ancient North Malabar folklore, especially Theyyam, as depicted in its poster.
Published Oct 01, 2024 | 2:28 PM ⚊ Updated Oct 01, 2024 | 2:28 PM
'Vadakkan' Fright Night Film Festival. (Instagram)
Malayalam film Vadakkan starring Kishore and Shruthy Menon is back in the news. The Sajeed A directorial became the first Malayalam movie to win Best Supernatural Thriller award at Fright Night Film Festival.
The film festival held annually in Louisville, Kentucky, is dedicated to showcasing genre films, such as horror, science fiction, fantasy, and action, as well as cult films from around the globe.
This festival highlights new works from regions including Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Europe, and North America.
The horror film is rooted in ancient North Malabar folklore, especially Theyyam, as depicted in its poster.
The film was screened at the festival on 28 September. Earlier, it was also screened at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival.
Vadakkan boasts an eminent crew, including Academy Award-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty, cinematographer Kieko Nakahara, music director Bijibal, and writer Unni R.
The film team shared the news on their social media platforms. They wrote on Instagram: “From ancient rituals to modern horrors, the past awakens in unimaginable ways on Brahmagiri Island. Join a paranormal investigator as he delves into a dark world of myths, legends, and ghostly realms. Prepare for a chilling battle of spirits, vengeance, and untold secrets. The first paranormal investigation film in Malayalam.”
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Ken Daniels, the founder and director of the Fright Night Film Festival, praised the movie stating, “It’s a mesmerizing, beautiful film. The cinematography is brilliant, supported by incredibly strong performances and a solid script. Go see it!”
The film won the rare opportunity to be showcased at the Marché du Film Fantastic Pavilion in May 2024, which is the epicentre of industry networking and film sales during the Cannes Film Festival.
Pablo Guisa, Executive Director of Marché du Films Fantastic Pavilion, Cannes Film Festival, said in May, it was an absolute delight to host Vadakkan as one of the seven gala screenings.
As Pablo Guisa has described it, Vadakkan is a unique blend of mystery, ancient lore, and supernatural elements, “shot to global standards, the film will provide an experience like no other.”
Guisa added, “Vadakkan has a gripping narrative with a unique storytelling format. The production showcases the strength of Indian cinema in the global genre cinema space. We are impressed with the director’s and producer’s vision to put together a world-class cast and crew to bring the franchise of Vadakkan alive for the audiences.”
(Edited by Sumavarsha Kandula)
