A relatively recent wave in Malayalam cinema is transforming the industry – the rise of female producers. Female producers are leading the charge, driving projects that appeal to viewers and critics alike, and smashing box office records.
Arifa Hassan, who passed away in 2020, was perhaps the first woman producer in the Malayalam industry, all through a period when the spotlight was exclusively on actors, directors, and other positions held by men, and female technicians were a rare sight. She produced 26 Malayalam films under Arifa Enterprises, leaving a legacy that continues to influence. Arifa Hassan, alongside her husband Hassan Rasheed, produced several successes, including Periyar, Tourist Bungalow, Society Lady, Chanchala, and Samrajyam. Her contributions had a significant impact on the industry.
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Let’s look at 4 women producers leading the charge in the Malayalam movie industry.
Shanta Muralidharan
Shanta Muralidharan is considered an early leader in Malayalam cinema, for being one of the industry’s early female producers. Her noteworthy successes include her collaborations with actor Prithviraj, producing highly praised films such as Memories, an engaging thriller directed by Jeethu Joseph, and Robinhood, an entertaining drama-action combination directed by Joshi. She also produced the hugely popular romance comedy Chocolate, directed by Shafi. Shanta Muralidharan proved her versatility by broadening her repertoire with Oru Kuttanadan Blog, a film starring Mammootty, and her impressive body of work not only shows her significant role in the industry but also reflects her commitment to bringing compelling and diverse stories to the big screen.
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Sandra Thomas
It wasn’t until Sandra Thomas, who had starred in a few films, entered film production that Malayalam cinema began to recognize the existence of a proactive female film producer. In 2012, she produced Friday, directed by a newbie, and starred Fahadh Faasil on a budget of more than ₹1.5 crores. Sandra Thomas is considered one of the most creative directors to have brought in a new age of Malayalam cinema. After Friday, she produced Zachariyayude Gharbanikal, Philips and the Monkey Pen, Aadu, Peruchazhi, Nalla Nilavu Ulla Raathri, Kallan Dsouza and now Little Hearts. Sandra is focused on carving a niche in the Malayalam cinema business by carefully choosing narratives that create a deeper impression on screens and in people’s minds.
Sophia Paul
Sophia Paul is the founder of Weekend Blockbusters, a production company based in Kollam, Kerala. Her first venture was Bangalore Days, as co-producer alongside Anwar Rasheed Entertainments. Her second movie, Minnal Murali garnered widespread attention. Weekend Blockbusters has been on a winning streak with 6 hits in the past 9 years, with RDX being the latest (at the time of writing).
Supriya Menon
Supriya Menon launched Prithviraj Productions with their debut movie 9. Since then, they’ve backed other films, including Kaduva, Kuruthi and Driving Licence, with their latest release being Guruvayoor Ambala Nadayil. Supriya Menon began her career as a journalist, working as a correspondent for major news outlets such as the BBC and NDTV before venturing into the film industry.
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The experiences and adventures of these inspiring women reflect the wider trend in the industry. The growing appreciation and acknowledgement of female producers reflect the breakdown of outdated barriers and a shift toward a more inclusive filmmaking world. This shift not only fosters gender equality but also broadens the industry with multiple perspectives and fresh storytelling. The growth of female producers in Malayalam cinema offers a compelling tale, one of growth and empowerment.
