Thiruvananthapuram, India – Esteemed filmmaker Sudhir Mishra has been appointed chairperson of the jury for the prestigious Kerala State Film Awards 2023. Mishra, a venerated figure in the Indian film industry, initially garnered critical acclaim with his debut “Yeh Woh Manzil To Nahin,” which clinched the National Film Award for Best Debut in 1987. His cinematic contributions have since continued to provoke thought and stir debate, notably with the National Award-winning “Dharavi” and the politically charged “Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi.” The latter dives into the lives of three young idealists during the emergency period in India. In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Mishra was honored with the Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 2010.
Supporting Mishra in the comprehensive adjudication process are filmmakers Priyanandanan and Azhagappan. Each will head a subcommittee for the preliminary round of judging. Additionally, they will join a panel of esteemed filmmakers and artists for the final round of judging. This panel includes acclaimed director Lijo Jose Pellissery, writer N.S. Madhavan, actor Ann Augustine, and musician Sreevalsan J. Menon.
The earlier stages of assessment will witness participation from several other notable industry professionals. This includes cinematographer Prathap V. Nair, editor Vijay Shankar, and writers Shihabuddin Poythumkadavu, Vinoy Thomas, and Malavika Binny. Accompanying them in the preliminary rounds is sound recordist C.R. Chandran.
The analysis and celebration of cinematic literature will be overseen by film critic and writer Janaki Sreedharan, who will lead the jury specifically evaluating cinema-related writings. Assisting her will be film critic Jose K. Manuel and writer O.K. Santosh. The secretary of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, C. Ajoy, will serve as the member secretary across all judging panels, ensuring a streamlined communication and operational process.
A bustling pool of talent is reflected in the submission of 160 films, all contending for honors in this year’s awards. Screening for these films is set to commence on July 13, promising a rigorous selection process helmed by some of the most respected names in the industry.
The Kerala State Film Awards stand as a testament not only to the artistic prowess prevalent in the regional film industry but also to the cultural narratives that these films bring to the forefront. As the anticipation builds, the jury’s composition—boasting a varied mix of filmmakers, writers, and technicians—promises a judging process that is both comprehensive and fair. This year’s awards are poised to not only recognize excellence in filmmaking but also to celebrate the diverse voices and perspectives that characterize contemporary Indian cinema.