Fazil, a luminary in Malayalam cinema, is celebrated for his directorial finesse and, notably, for introducing some of South India's biggest stars. Among his most significant contributions is the debut of Mohanlal, an actor who has become synonymous with Malayalam cinema's golden era. Fazil's "genius move" wasn't just about launching a new face; it was about recognizing and nurturing a talent that would redefine acting in Malayalam cinema and beyond.
In 1981, Fazil directed Manjil Virinja Pookkal, a film that marked the beginning of Mohanlal's illustrious career. According to Mohanlal, he got his first role in Manjil Virinja Pookkal after his photos somehow reached director Fazil. Despite initial skepticism from some on the judging panel, Fazil championed Mohanlal for the role of the antagonist, recognizing a unique quality in the young actor. Fazil has said that when casting for the role of antagonist in Manjil Virinja Pookkal, he wanted someone who is innocent and genuine and after watching Mohanlal's performance, he gave him 90 marks and decided to cast him. This decision proved to be a masterstroke. The film, a romantic drama starring Shankar and Poornima Jayaram, became a major success, earning 15 times its budget and winning several Kerala State Film Awards. More importantly, it launched Mohanlal into stardom.
Fazil's ability to spot talent didn't stop there. He introduced audiences to Nadia Moidu in Nokkethadhoorathu Kannum Nattu, Baby Shalini in Ente Mamattikkuttiyammakku, and Kunchacko Boban in Aniyathipravu. He also introduced Nagma, Khushbu, and Fahadh Faasil to South Indian cinema. His film Aniyathipravu introduced Kunchacko Boban and Shalini to Malayalam cinema and he later remade the movie in Tamil as Kadhalukku Mariyadhai, featuring up-and-coming actor Vijay as the male lead and Shalini reprising her role from the original film, which played a key role in establishing Vijay as a star.
Beyond launching careers, Fazil is known for crafting films that resonate with audiences. His movies often feature detailed screenplays that deal with everyday life, blending humor and melancholy with cinematography and warm background music. His film Manichitrathazhu won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. He also won the Best Director award at the 13th Kerala State Film Awards for his 1984 film Ente Mamattukkuttiyammakku. With numerous Malayalam films, as well as several Tamil films and one Telugu film, Fazil has won the most number of State awards for the best film with popular appeal and aesthetic value.
Mohanlal, who recently received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest honor in cinema, credits Fazil for shaping his film journey. According to Mohanlal, it was Fazil who made him an actor and gave him a new life. He often says that without Fazil guiding and believing in his talent, his journey from an ordinary youngster to one of India's greatest actors would never have been possible. In a recent interview, Fazil said that Mohanlal possesses intelligence, is hardworking, determined, humble, artistic, and friendly.
Fazil's "genius move" was not just about casting Mohanlal in Manjil Virinja Pookkal; it was about setting the stage for a cinematic revolution. By recognizing and nurturing raw talent, Fazil has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, shaping the careers of numerous stars and delivering films that continue to be celebrated.
