Vinay Kumar
Directed by Sibi Malayil and written by the late Lohithadas, ‘Kireedam’ is one of the industry’s finest films. Mohanlal’s portrayal of Sethumadhavan remains one of the most acclaimed performances in his career and earned him his first National Award recognition.During the screening of the 4K re-release of ‘Kireedam’, the ‘Drishyam’ actor turned emotional. The veteran actor addressed the media after the screening and opened up on the lasting impact the 1989 classic has had on his life.
Mohanlal says it’s a rare moment in his life
Expressing his gratitude to director Sibi Malayil, Mohanlal said as quoted by On Manorama, “This is a very rare moment in my life. In my 48-year acting career, Kireedam stands out as one of the most definitive milestones. It brought me my first National Award recognition. Thank you, Sibi. My second National Award winning performance (Bharatham) was also in a film directed by Sibi.”
Restored version brings back powerful memories
Watching the newly restored version took Mohanlal back nearly four decades.He admitted that revisiting the classic reminded him of several legendary artistes who had worked alongside him but are no longer alive.Recalling the experience, Mohanlal said, “It brings a strange mix of joy and profound sadness. Seeing so many familiar faces on screen instantly transported me 37 years back in time. So many of them have left us. I turned to Sibi and asked him—we just don’t have those incredible people with us anymore to make a film like this, do we? That realisation brings immense grief.”
Mohanlal praises the team’s achievement
Mohanlal also opened up on the circumstances under which ‘Kireedam’ was made. He pointed out that the film was completed with limited resources compared to modern filmmaking standards.He said, “It is a deeply emotional film. It was made 37 years ago with very basic facilities. If we made it today, it would be entirely different. To create a film of this magnitude within the constraints of that era is a monumental achievement. Watching Kireedam will always make one incredibly emotional. This happens only to a select few films, but perhaps, to this film more than any other. I remember and thank everyone who worked behind the scenes.“The restored version of ‘Kireedam’ is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical re-release on this day (July 10). The film featured memorable performances from Jagathy Sreekumar, Jagadish, Parvathy, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, and many more in pivotal roles.
