1. Introduction
“Kireedam,” released in 1989, is a landmark Malayalam film that has earned its place as a timeless classic in Indian cinema. Directed by Sibi Malayil and featuring the iconic actor Mohanlal in the lead role, the movie is a poignant exploration of family, societal pressures, and the human spirit. In this article, we delve into the film’s plot, performances, impact, and enduring legacy.
2. The Plot of Kireedam
“Kireedam” revolves around Sethumadhavan, a young man with dreams of a peaceful life, who inadvertently gets entangled in the web of crime and violence. The film narrates his struggles, aspirations, and the challenging choices he faces due to circumstances beyond his control. It’s a gripping tale that delves into the complexities of life.
3. Mohanlal’s Stellar Performance
Mohanlal’s portrayal of Sethumadhavan is a masterclass in acting. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from joy and hope to despair and anguish, captivates the audience. Mohanlal’s performance in “Kireedam” is considered one of his finest and remains etched in the hearts of viewers.
4. Impact on Malayalam Cinema
“Kireedam” marked a turning point in Malayalam cinema. It demonstrated that Malayalam films could tackle serious and socially relevant themes while still resonating with the masses. The film’s success paved the way for more nuanced storytelling in the industry.
5. Themes Explored in Kireedam
The movie explores various themes, including the impact of societal expectations on individuals, the consequences of one’s choices, and the struggle to maintain one’s integrity in the face of adversity. These themes continue to be relevant and relatable to audiences of all ages.
6. The Father-Son Relationship
At its core, “Kireedam” is a poignant exploration of the father-son relationship. The dynamics between Sethumadhavan and his father Achuthan Nair, played by Thilakan, are at the heart of the film. It showcases the generational divide and the challenges of living up to familial expectations.
7. Awards and Recognition
“Kireedam” received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. Mohanlal’s performance earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor, while the film itself won the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Film. The movie’s impact extended beyond regional cinema.
8. Legacy of Kireedam
“Kireedam” remains a classic that continues to be celebrated by film enthusiasts. Its influence on Indian cinema is undeniable, inspiring filmmakers to explore complex narratives and characters. The film’s enduring legacy is a testament to its timeless storytelling.
9. Conclusion
“Kireedam” is more than a movie; it’s a cinematic masterpiece that delves deep into the human psyche. With its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and exploration of profound themes, it stands as a testament to the power of Indian cinema to touch hearts and provoke thought.
10. FAQs
What is the significance of the title “Kireedam”?
The title “Kireedam” translates to “Crown” in English, symbolizing the burdens and responsibilities that the protagonist, Sethumadhavan, must bear throughout the film.
Who directed the film “Kireedam”?
“Kireedam” was directed by Sibi Malayil, known for his contribution to Malayalam cinema.
How did the film influence other Indian movies?
“Kireedam” influenced Indian cinema by demonstrating that regional films could address serious themes and resonate with a wider audience. It inspired filmmakers to explore socially relevant narratives.
What makes “Kireedam” a must-watch for film enthusiasts?
“Kireedam” is a must-watch for its exceptional storytelling, Mohanlal’s remarkable performance, and its exploration of universal themes that continue to resonate with viewers.
Is there a sequel to “Kireedam”?
As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, there was no official sequel to “Kireedam.” Please check the latest updates for any developments regarding sequels or spin-offs.
- Mohanlal’s best performances
- Malayalam cinema classics
- Family drama in Indian films
- Societal expectations in movies
- Indian film industry milestones
- Sibi Malayil directorial
- Father-son relationships in cinema
- Iconic Indian film characters
- Malayalam film industry influence
- Mohanlal’s acting prowess
In 1989, Sibi Malayil and A. K. Lohithadas released the action drama movie Kireedam (roughly translated as Crown). The movie also features Mohanlal, Thilakan, and Parvathy Jayaram in supporting parts, as well as Philomina, Usha, and Jagadish. Johnson wrote the score for the movie.
The story of the movie centers on a young guy named Sethumadhavan (Mohanlal), whose dreams and expectations are dashed by a collision of fate and human fall. It looks at how society stereotypes people and forces them to play that role whether they want to or not. Mohanlal received the National Film Award – Special Mention for “beautifully and distinctively portraying the agony and pain of a young man. The word “Kireedam” alludes to the figurative crown that the Ramapuram villagers give Sethumadhavan for killing Keerikadan Jose.
Kireedam was made public on July 7, 1989. At the box office, it was a huge commercial success. The performances of Mohanlal and Thilakan, the screenplay, and the soundtrack all won high accolades from critics. In Indian cinema, it is recognized as a classic. In 1993, Chenkol, the movie’s sequel, was released. Kireedam was translated into six additional languages, becoming Mohanlal’s first film to receive this treatment: Rowdyism Nasinchali in Telugu (1990), Modada Mareyalli in Kannada (1991), Gardish in Hindi (1993), Babar Adesh in Bengali Bangladesh (1995), Nayak-The Real Hero in Bengali (2005), and Kireedam in Tamil (2007). In 2007, it overtook Poovinu Puthiya Poonthennal and Anuraga Aralithu to become the third Indian film to receive a six-language remake.
Plot
An honorable and truthful police officer named Achuthan Nair is married to Ammu and has four children: two sons and two daughters. Sethumadhavan, Achuthan Nair’s older son, is aspiring to be a police inspector. He gets along well and is friendly with his son. Devi, the niece of Sethu’s maternal uncle Krishnan Nair, is engaged to him. Achuthan Nair and his family are transferred one day to the Ramapuram police station for charging a minor crime against the son of a Legislative Assembly member.
Hardcore criminal Keerikadan Jose controls the Ramapuram market by operating an extortion ring. One day, Achuthan Nair tries to break up a fight in which he is involved and is severely beaten by Jose. When Sethu, who was in the market, sees this, he intervenes to save his father by taking on Keerikadan Jose and his thugs. Keerikadan suffers a serious injury and is taken to the hospital. The entire market rejoices in Keerikadan’s downfall and welcomes Sethu as its new savior. His companions profit from this notoriety and eventually start a fight in the neighborhood bar. This string of occurrences profoundly disturbs Achuthan Nair, who accuses Sethu of gradually becoming a criminal. Despite his best efforts, Sethu keeps getting drawn into more and more mischief.
A local criminal named Haidrose started demanding extortion money from the traders in the area by posing as Sethu’s goon. Sethu’s brother-in-law Ramanan joins Haidrose. When Sethu finds out, he defeats them both in the market. Sethu is asked to leave the house by Achuthan Nair, who is sure that Ramanan’s version of events is incorrect. Sethu then leaves the house. Sethu is detained by the local police inspector for a minor offense, and he issues him a warning not to stir up any more problems. His boyhood friend Keshu attempts to comfort him, but Sethu absolutely loses it.
Devi’s parents arrange her marriage to a new guy in the interim, which Devi is unwilling to accept. Devi is introduced to Sethu, who tells her about his plight and begs her to obey her parents. Sethu feels more alone than ever when she gets married. After leaving the hospital, Keerikadan Jose makes the decision to exact revenge on Sethu. Anyone who cheered his “death” will likewise face harsh punishment, he decides. In addition to robbing Sethu’s home, he abuses his mother and sisters. The lieutenant of Keerikadan, Parameshwaran, assaults Sethu. Sethu takes an iron rod in an effort to defend himself and starts hitting him with it. After suffering severe injuries, Parameshwaran is taken to the hospital.
Keerikkadan Jose targets Sethumadhavan once more. They start fighting, and Sethumadhavan explodes into an irrational wrath. He makes threats to kill everyone who approaches him while having blood trickling from his face. Sethu picks up a knife and kills Keerikkadan, who is desperately hurt and attempting to stand up.
After a few anxious seconds, Sethu obeys Achuthan Nair’s order to drop his dagger and enters the room. They both get very emotional and Sethu throws the dagger aside, exhausted and on his knees. As the movie comes to a close, Sethumadhavan is barred from joining the police service. Sethu is listed as a “notorious criminal” in the Police Verification Report, according to Head Constable Achuthan Nair.
Cast Mohanlal as Sethu, Thilakan as Head Constable Achuthan Nair, Parvathy as Sethu’s father, Kaviyoor Ponnamma as Sethu’s cousin and love interest Ammu, and Mohan Raj as Sethu’s mother as Keerikadan. Sethu’s friend Cochin Haneefa portrays Haidrose, while Jose Sankaradi plays Krishnan Nair, Sethu’s maternal uncle and Devi’s father.
In the role of Ramanan, played by Jagathy Sreekumar, Murali plays Lokanathan, a Sub-Inspector (SI) at Ramapuram Station.
Usha plays Latha, the maternal grandmother of Sethu, and Philomina plays Muthasshi- Krishnan Nair, Ammu, and Muthasshi’s old mother. Sethumadhavan’s younger sister Jagadish plays Suresh.
Najeeb Mamukkoya is played by Maniyanpilla Raju as a constable. Oduvil Unnikrishnan, father of Hameed and Najeeb, is an assistant sub-inspector (ASI). Father of Suresh Gopalakrishnan Nair Kundara Johny as Parameshwaran Thikkurissy Santhosh is played by Sukumaran Nair, Rameshan by shopkeeper Yadu Krishnan, Ambika by Sethu’s younger brother Kanakalatha, Bharathi by Ramanan’s wife Santhakumari, and Jayaraj Poojappura Radhakrishnan by Kollam Thulasi, the mother of Devi.
