Crisp Plots and Sharp Characters

Through his films & screenplays, MT explored lives, customs and beliefs of ordinary people, and socio-political themes in a post-'50s Kerala

- ANNA JOSE @Kochi

Protagonists like Sathyanathan in 'Sadayam,' Kannan in 'Perumthachan,' and Narayani in 'Nirmalyam,' all created by M T Vasudevan Nair, were the embodiment of intense human emotions and experiences, especially those fashioned by privations and frustrations with societal systems.

Through his films and screenplays, MT explored the lives, customs and beliefs of ordinary people, and the socio-political themes in a post-'50s Kerala.

While 'Nirmalyam' (1973), MT's directorial debut, unfolded the struggles of a velichappadu (oracle), 'Parinayam' (1994), helmed by Hariharan, discussed the mental struggles of a young Namboothiri woman.

'Sadayam' (1992), a psychological drama directed by Sibi Malayil that also featured what is believed to be one of actor Mohanlal's best performances, depicts a young man questioning a system that fails to protect the weak and vulnerable sections. It also talks about the psychological struggles and phases of depression that people experience.