From 'Kalyanaraman' to 'Two Countries': Remembering Shafi's best works till date
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Director Shafi, best known for his fun and emotional family entertainers, is no more. In his career as a director spanning two decades, Shafi delivered several superhits, mostly with leading actors of the time. He often worked with Dileep, Mammootty, and Jayasurya, while screenwriters Rafi, who is also his brother, and Benny P Nayarambalam, were his constant collaborators. We take a look at some of his most loved works.
'Kalyanaraman'
This film featuring Dileep and Navya Nair in the lead is mostly remembered for its situational comedy and hilarious exchanges between its lead and supporting actors. The highlight of the film, which was written by Benny P Nayarambalam, was the character Ponjikkara played by the late actor Innocent. The plot follows a young man Ramankutty and his family's catering business and the events that unfold after they are tasked to cater food at Ambattu Thampi's daughter's wedding.
'Pulival Kalyanam'
Soon after directing 'Kalyanaraman,' Shafi released the Jayasurya and Kavya Madhavan-starrer 'Pulival Kalyanam', which was written by the hit pair Udaykrishna and Siby K Thomas. The film, just like 'Kalyanaraman,' has plenty of fun dialogue with the character Manavalan played by Salim Kumar developing a cult following.
'Thommanum Makkallum'
The movie was yet another feather in Shafi and Benny Nayarambalam's cap with the film running successfully at the box office for 100 days after it was released in 2005. The film is a family drama and revolves around Thomman and his sons and the drama that unfolds in their family when they try to mend their ways.
'Chocolate'
This fun college drama was a perfect blend of entertainment and drama, and what made it all the more appealing was the performance of the lead actors, including Roma and Prithviraj. The film also had a good number of songs, which perfectly captured the vibe of the film.
Two Countries
This hilarious film, featuring Mamta Mohandas and Dileep in the lead, follows a man named Ullas Kumar who is looking for a convenient marriage so that he can live comfortably. He jumps at the opportunity to marry an Indian-Canadian named Laya, who has her own battles. The chemistry between the duo and the script by Rafi makes the film thoroughly enjoyable.