For decades, Indian cinema was synonymous with song-and-dance spectacles. But quietly, in the lush landscapes of Kerala, a different kind of storytelling was brewing.

The success of "Nizhaku" marked a turning point for Raj, who went on to become a prominent filmmaker in his own right. His subsequent films continued to explore the complexities of Malayali culture, delving into themes of identity, community, and social justice.

From the nostalgic 1990s comedies of Godfather and Sandhesam to the modern anxieties explored in June or Joji , the camera lingers on the nuances of Nair tharavads (ancestral homes), Syrian Christian kitchens, and the peculiar loneliness of flat-dwelling apartment complexes in Kochi.

The 1980s saw the emergence of a new wave in Malayalam cinema, characterized by a shift towards more realistic and experimental storytelling. Filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, John Abraham, and Hariharan made films that explored complex themes and pushed the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. Movies like "Swayamvaram" (1972), "Athidhi" (1974), and "Purushartham" (1986) showcased the artistic and intellectual depth of Malayalam cinema.