Anantaram


Anantaram '', also known as Monologue, is a 1987 Indian Malayalam-language psychological drama film produced, written and directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. It stars Ashokan, Mammootty and Shobana in the lead. The film is structured like a monologue. It develops through a commentary by the protagonist about himself in the first person. The attempt of the protagonist is to narrate how his undiagnosed psychosis led him where he is now. The film was an experimental film for its time as it did not have a linear narrative.
The film won the 1987 FIPRESCI Prize at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival and three National Film Awards- for Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Audiography. It was included in an online poll by IBN Live listing 100 greatest Indian films of all time.
The film was released on October 21, Diwali day.

Cast

The film upon release got mixed reviews from critics and the general consensus was that the film didn't meet the expectations of an Adoor Gopalakrishnan film. However, modern reception is more positive. The film is now considered way ahead of its time. It is regarded by critics to be one of Adoor Gopalakrishnan's best works. Simran Bhargava of India Today wrote "The story is not complete. Perhaps it is not meant to be. Adoor makes no statement, which story is real, how much is Ajayan's experience and how much he has invested from the world of his imagination. The Nalini of Ajayan's second story could be a dream, but again, she need not. Adoor doesn't insult his audience by laying it out straight. He prods them to bring their own experience to his films. He is not an easy director to understand. But, then, he is not for everyone. He exists so that lesser filmmakers can learn how to make better films."

Awards

The film has been nominated for and won the following awards since its release:
  • FIPRESCI Prize
  • Best Director - Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Best Screenplay - Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Best Audiography - P. Devadas, T. Krishnanunni, N. Harikumar