Kochi, 03 July (H.S.):Malayalam cinema is expected to be among the frontrunners when the winners of the 72nd National Film Awards are announced on Friday, following another year of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films.

An 11-member jury headed by filmmaker Jayaraj has completed the selection process for films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in 2024. Jayaraj, who previously served on the National Film Awards jury in 2012, chaired the panel that selected this year's winners.

Among the Malayalam films believed to be in strong contention are Rahul Sadasivan's psychological horror drama Bramayugam, Chidambaram's survival thriller Manjummel Boys and Dinjith Ayyathan's mystery drama Kishkindha Kaandam.

Much of the attention is focused on Mammootty, whose acclaimed performance in Bramayugam has made him a leading contender for the Best Actor award. The veteran actor, who won the Kerala State Film Award for the role, impressed audiences as Kodumon Potti, a mysterious tantric in the visually striking black-and-white horror film.

Manjummel Boys is also widely tipped for major honours after dominating the Kerala State Film Awards. The film won Best Film, while Chidambaram was honoured as Best Director and Best Screenplay writer. It also secured several technical awards, including Best Cinematography, Best Sound Design and Best Art Direction.

Kishkindha Kaandam, praised for its gripping narrative and performances, has also emerged as a strong contender after receiving widespread critical appreciation.

Malayalam cinema enters this year's awards with considerable momentum after winning five National Awards at the previous edition. Vijayaraghavan received the Best Supporting Actor award for Pookkaalam, while Urvashi won Best Supporting Actress for Ullozhukku. Ullozhukku was also named Best Malayalam Film, while Mohandas and Mithun Murali were honoured for Production Design and Editing, respectively.

With an impressive slate of films and performances, the Malayalam film industry is hoping to extend its recent success when the National Film Awards are announced later on Friday.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman