Sreenivasan: An actor, writer and director par excellence. Remembering his best works

Actor Sreenivasan, who passed away at the Taluk Hospital in Tripunithura, was more than just a star; he was the voice of the common man, understanding the Malayali audience's pulse like no other. His deep connection with people transcended beyond the screen, and through his films, he captured the essence of everyday life with a perfect blend of humour, satire, and slapstick comedy. Though he aspired to be an actor, it was his brilliance as a screenwriter that truly captured the hearts of millions. Here's a look at some of his most iconic works as a writer, director, and actor.

'Nadodikaatu'
Directed by Sathyan Anthikad, 'Nadodikaatu' remains one of the defining films in Malayalam cinema. A satire on unemployment, it became an evergreen classic due to Sreenivasan’s masterful script. While the film, based on a story by Siddique-Lal, was packed with humour and clever slapstick, Sreenivasan's writing effortlessly layered in emotional depth, making it both laugh-out-loud funny and thought-provoking. His portrayal of Vijayan, paired with Mohanlal’s character Dasan, was truly a match made in heaven. The role also showcased his impeccable timing as an actor and his flair for writing multi-dimensional characters. 'Nadodikaatu' wasn’t just a comedy; it was a social commentary with heart, a trait Sreenivasan repeatedly brought to the screen.

'Vadakkunokkiyantram'
As a director, Sreenivasan crafted a rare gem with 'Vadakkunokkiyantram' (1989). While the actor had already proven his prowess as one of the finest screenwriters in Malayalam cinema, this film gave him greater creative control. It delved into the complexities of a troubled marriage, driven by the insecurities of a husband (played by Sreenivasan himself). The film’s emotional depth stood out, marking a shift towards more mature storytelling. Sreenivasan understood that behind every laugh lay a more profound truth, something that would connect the audience not just to the humour but to the humanity within it. His journey as a filmmaker was defined by his ability to blend lightheartedness with deeper introspection, a signature style that would become his hallmark.

'Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala'
A golden feather in his career, 'Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala' (2004) is one of his most introspective films. Known for his sharp observations on middle-class life, relationships, and the pressures of modern existence, Sreenivasan’s writing here is at its finest. The film portrays the stress and emotional complexities of a typical family, exploring issues such as mental health and marital strain with sensitivity and realism. Through his powerful script, Sreenivasan captured a deep, almost painful, reflection of ordinary life. Yet, he never lost his trademark humour, giving the film a perfect balance of pathos and comedy.

'Sandesham'
In 'Sandesham' (1991), directed by Sathyan Anthikad, Sreenivasan portrayed Vishwanathan, a man caught in the ideological tug-of-war between his brother, each advocating a different political ideology. The film, written by Sreenivasan, is a biting satire of Kerala’s political landscape, with Sreenivasan’s sharp wit dissecting the absurdity of political extremism. Directed by Sathyan Anthikad, Sandesham became a cultural landmark, with Sreenivasan using his writing to highlight the contradictions inherent in political ideologies, wrapped in humour and irony. Through his insightful script, he addressed a society where politics often divided even families and friendships, while also offering a comedic relief that made the satire accessible to all.

'Gandhinagar 2nd Street'
A brilliant fusion of humour and social commentary, 'Gandhinagar Second Street' (1986) remains a classic for Sreenivasan’s clever writing. The film, directed by Sathyan Anthikad, introduced the audience to a fictional group of friends living in the equally fictional housing colony of Gandhinagar. Through Sreenivasan’s pen, the film captured the quirks and complexities of ordinary people and their struggles in everyday life. The humour was subtle but sharp, often pointing out the contradictions in society, yet it always left the audience smiling. The dialogues became iconic for their wit and charm, making it one of the most memorable films of its time. Sreenivasan’s ability to weave social commentary with comedy made this film an unforgettable part of Malayalam cinema.

'Thalayanamanthram'
This film stars Sreenivasan in the lead role, telling the story of a young couple and exploring how greed subtly infiltrates their married life. The film offers a humorous yet thought-provoking commentary on the consequences of materialism and selfish desires. Sreenivasan and Urvashi play the central couple, with Urvashi's character succumbing to greed, which begins to affect their relationship and everyday life. The film balances comedy with sharp social observations, highlighting how personal flaws can influence family dynamics and lead to unexpected complications.