The Kerala state film awards for the best film went to 'Kanthan - The Lover of Colours' directed by Shareef Eesa. On hearing about the honour, the filmmaker revealed that he struggled a lot to shoot and even fund the movie after the producer backed off.
“We have struggled a lot to make this film in the wake of floods in Kerala," Shareef said, while adding "it's a proud moment to have obtained an award for this movie which revolved around such a similar environmental issue."
Shareef had to complete the project despite limited financial resources.
“During the shoot, we had only a five-member crew. We began with a budget of Rs 50,000 which then soared to Rs 20 lakh. The producer of the movie withdrew after the initial shoots and then we ourselves had to find ways to fund the movie. I had to take loans from banks and even had to sell my wife's ornaments to finish the movie,” Shareef opened up about his struggle.
Interestingly, 'Kanthan...' has social activist Dayabhai playing the lead role along with many tribals from Nangara Colony in Thirunelli in Kerala's Wayanad district.
The film is based on life in tribal settlements.
The Kerala State Film Awards for the year 2018 were announced by Minister for Cultural Affairs A K Balan on Wednesday.
