Santosh Vishwanath stands as a prominent figure in the realm of Malayalam filmmaking, celebrated for his aesthetically brilliant contributions to the industry. Noteworthy among his filmography are masterpieces like 'Chirakodinja Kinavukal,' starring Kunchako Boban, and 'One,' featuring the illustrious Megastar Mammootty. His journey into the world of cinema commenced with a Diploma in Film Making, laying the foundation for a career marked by artistic prowess. Santosh Vishwanath further honed his craft by assisting some of the industry's major directors, contributing to the creation of cinematic gems that captivated audiences. Beyond his role as a filmmaker, Santosh Vishwanath is recognized as an exceptional film teacher. He imparts his wealth of knowledge through regular classes at V J Film House School of Cinema and various workshops conducted by organizations such as MACTA, leaving an indelible mark on aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts. As the Chairman of V J Film House School of Cinema, Santosh Vishwanath is deeply engaged in shaping the next generation of filmmakers. Actively involved in syllabus preparation, staff selection, and student mentoring, he brings his rich experience and artistic vision to cultivate a dynamic learning environment. In the world of Malayalam cinema, Santosh Vishwanath stands as a multifaceted creative force, leaving an enduring legacy through his films, teaching endeavors, and leadership at V J Film House School of Cinema.
Joju Rapheal, a seasoned figure in the Malayalam film industry, commenced his career in 1999 within the dynamic realm of television. As the years unfolded, he solidified his position as one of the most sought-after associate directors, contributing his expertise to over 35 feature films that left an indelible mark on the industry. In a pivotal move in 2019, Joju Rapheal embraced his creative independence, stepping into the role of an independent director. His directorial debut, 'Ittimani, Made in China,' showcased his directorial finesse and featured the legendary superstar Mohan Lal. Collaborating with Jibu, this cinematic endeavor marked a significant milestone in Joju Rapheal's career, earning him recognition for his directorial prowess. Joju Rapheal's journey reflects not only his substantial impact on the Malayalam film industry but also his evolution from a television professional to a highly regarded associate director and, ultimately, an accomplished independent director. His contribution continues to shape the cinematic landscape, captivating audiences with each project he undertakes.
M. Sindhuraj stands as a luminary in the Malayalam film industry, distinguished as one of the most celebrated scriptwriters with a prolific career spanning over two decades. His invaluable contribution to the cinematic landscape includes crafting scripts for some of the industry's super hits over the last twenty years. Among the noteworthy films penned by M. Sindhuraj are the critically acclaimed 'Puthiya Mugham' (2009), the heartwarming 'Elsamma Enna Aankutty' (2010), the compelling 'Thappana' (2012), the charming 'Pullippulikalum Aattinkuttiyum' (2013), and the soul-stirring 'Mundirivallikal Thalirkkumpol' (2017). These cinematic gems not only garnered commercial success but also resonated with audiences, showcasing M. Sindhuraj's prowess in weaving engaging and impactful narratives. With a flair for storytelling that transcends genres, M. Sindhuraj continues to be a driving force in shaping the storytelling landscape of Malayalam cinema. His legacy as a scriptwriter stands as a testament to his ability to craft narratives that leave a lasting imprint on the hearts of viewers.
Milton Thomas, a versatile artist with a prolific career, embarked on his journey in 1989, collaborating with industry veterans like Venkitaraman and Nandhan. In addition to being a skilled painter, Milton Thomas made a remarkable foray into the world of cinema. His debut as an independent art director was marked by the release of 'Komban' in 2002, showcasing his distinctive vision and creative prowess in shaping cinematic spaces. Since this noteworthy beginning, Milton Thomas has left an indelible mark on the film industry, contributing his expertise as a production designer for more than 50 films. His extensive portfolio includes projects not only in Malayalam but also in Hindi and Marathi cinema, attesting to his versatility and ability to transcend regional boundaries in the realm of production design. Milton Thomas's artistic flair, combined with his adeptness in the intricate craft of production design, has made him an invaluable asset to the cinematic landscape. His legacy is woven into the visual tapestry of numerous films, each a testament to his ability to create immersive and visually compelling environments that enhance the storytelling experience.
S. S. Sharan, a distinguished alumnus of the prestigious School of Drama, has carved a niche for himself as one of the most sought-after groomers in the vibrant Malayalam television industry. Renowned for his exceptional skill in refining and nurturing talent, he serves as a grooming mentor for actors featured in diverse programs on prominent channels such as Asianet, Mazhavil Manorama, Zee Kerala, and more. Beyond his role as a grooming expert, S. S. Sharan is a versatile artist who has made a notable mark as an actor. His talent has been showcased in various popular web series and movies, contributing to his recognition as one of the most accomplished young acting coaches in Kerala. With a foundation rooted in the prestigious School of Drama, S. S. Sharan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his roles as a grooming mentor and actor. His multifaceted contributions to the entertainment industry underscore his dedication to honing talent and leaving an indelible impact on the cultural landscape of Kerala.
Jithu Pulayan embarked on his journey in the world of makeup artistry as an assistant to some of the prominent makeup artists in the industry, including Pattanam Rashid, Pattanam Shah, Sreejith Guruvayoor, and Ranjith Ambady. Over the course of his career, he contributed his skills to the makeup departments of more than 200 films, learning and honing his craft under the guidance of industry veterans. With a wealth of experience garnered from his apprenticeship, Jithu Pulayan transitioned into becoming an independent makeup artist. His expertise extends not only to the realm of Malayalam cinema but also to the dynamic landscape of Malayalam television. As an independent makeup artist, Jithu Pulayan continues to leave his mark on both industries, showcasing his versatility and proficiency in enhancing the visual appeal of actors on screen. Jithu Pulayan's journey from an assistant to a successful independent makeup artist is a testament to his dedication, passion, and commitment to the art of makeup in the world of entertainment.
Sambhu Manoj initiated his journey in the film industry by serving as an assistant to Santhosh Vishwanath in the 2019 movie 'ONE.' His early experiences paved the way for his ascent in the industry, and he subsequently assumed the role of an associate director in films like 'PUZHU' (2021), 'SAUDI VELLAKKA' (2022), and 'OLAM' (2022). These roles allowed him to contribute significantly to the creative process, showcasing his talents in film direction. Beyond his involvement in filmmaking, Sambhu Manoj is a multifaceted artist deeply engaged in theatre. He holds the esteemed position of being the founder of Pipilika Arts Society, demonstrating his commitment to the promotion and cultivation of artistic endeavors. In addition to his contributions to the film and theatre realms, Sambhu Manoj has proven himself as an exceptional acting coach. His proficiency extends to teaching scripting and direction, reflecting his dedication to nurturing talent and imparting his knowledge to aspiring artists. Through his diverse roles and talents, Sambhu Manoj continues to make a notable impact on the creative landscape.
Arun Omana Sadanandan stands as an accomplished alumnus of the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in Hollywood, USA. Originally trained as a lawyer, holding a Masters from the University of Melbourne, Australia, Arun made a pivotal decision to shift from his corporate career to pursue his true passion in the realm of filmmaking. In 2016, Arun demonstrated his creative prowess by producing and directing an independent Malayalam feature film titled "Manasandarappetta Yezdi," starring the late P. Balachandran and Indrans in prominent roles. This venture underscored his commitment to storytelling and cinematic expression. Arun Omana Sadanandan is not only a filmmaker but also a respected educator. Currently, he shares his knowledge and insights through guest lectures at the National Institute of Design, Bhopal. His teaching approach is highly acclaimed, characterized by his ability to simplify complex topics and infuse enthusiasm into his students' journeys towards realizing their passions. In addition to his contributions to education and filmmaking, Arun has authored an e-book on scripting in Malayalam, showcasing his commitment to sharing knowledge within the industry. His multifaceted career exemplifies a dedication to both artistic expression and fostering the next generation of creative minds.
Vinod Nair brings over 15 years of extensive experience in the academic industry, specializing in mentoring students. Renowned for his expertise, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of the film industry. His commitment to fostering talent is evident in his role as an excellent event designer, having successfully orchestrated over 100 filmmaking workshops across Kerala and the Middle East. As the founder of V J Film House School of Cinema, Vinod Nair is deeply invested in cultivating a dynamic learning environment. He works closely with students, leveraging his wealth of experience to guide and support them in realizing their goals. His leadership ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of film education, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the competitive and ever-evolving world of cinema. Vinod Nair's dedication to education, combined with his hands-on experience in filmmaking, positions him as a key figure in nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. Through his multifaceted contributions, he continues to leave a lasting impact on the film industry, both as an educator and a mentor.