10 years of 'Classmates': A Lal Jose classic

It has been 10 years since Malayalam film industry witnessed the arrival of a group of youngsters bringing a cult classic. The movie, which went on to become one of the biggest blockbusters, set a standard of its own and is touted as one of the best youth movies in Malayalam.

On this occasion, we take a look at 4 reasons that made Classmates a ever-loved movie in Malayalam:

1. The stars

It was the beginning of stardom for actors like Prithviraj, Jayasurya, Indrajith, and Narain. It is Prithviraj's first big super hit while Indrajith, Jayasurya, and Narain got big breaks. Kavya Madhavan, who was a familiar face among Malayalam audience became favorite with her role of Thara Kurup. More than everyone else, Radhika's debut performance became a rage among youngsters. The perfect casting of the movie was perhaps the biggest advantage that Lal Jose had as a director.

2. The songs

The songs of Classmates achieved the rare fête as one among the largest-selling audio of 2000. The songs written by Vayalar Sarthchandra Varma and composed by Alex Paul were top in chartbusters. 'Ente Khalbile... ' and 'Kaattadi... ' were top picks from the album. The songs reminded many of the golden hits like Niram and Aniyathi Pravu.

3. Campus movie

Campus romance, student politics, college friendship and nostalgia are evergreen factors that appeal to every audience. So did Classmates with bitter-sweet memories of college days. Regarded as a best campus-based movie, Classmates had a good mix of emotions and suspense. Interestingly, the film spawned a whole new genre of college campus-based films like Puthiya Mukham, Chocolate, Lollypop, etc. The concept of conducting reunions also started after the release of this movie.

4. A director for the youth

Lal Jose has always supported and promoted youngsters and is the perfect director that any artists can dream of. He is one such director, who experiments and take risks and make sure to give something new to the audience. Undoubtedly, James Albert's script and the presentation of Lal Jose have made Classmates a huge hit.