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K P Kumaran started his film career as an active member of the Chitralekha Film Society and co-scripting their first production Swayamvaram with Adoor Gopalakrishnan. He made his debut with the documentary Rock in 1972, which was critically acclaimed internationally. Athithi was his first feature film. Selected Filmography:
Athithi - 1975
The story revolves around the lives of a family who awaits the return of the mysterious character, Shekaran. The sisters Ramani and Latha, their brother Karunan and their ageing father ardently expect Shekharan's arrival, who would solve all their problems. The existence of the character is ambiguous since Shekaran does not turn up till the end of the film.
Direction & Screenplay: K P Kumaran
Thotram - 2000
The story of Poomatha, a young girl belonging to the 'pulluva' community, is told in the Vadakkanpaattu, the folklore of Northern Kerala. The feudal lord of Kadalungara village takes a fancy for Poomatha who lives alone. When, even after being assisted by his steward Chindan, the lord finds that Poomatha doesn't yield to his wishes, he frames charges of adultery against her. Members of her community find her guilty of the crime and she is torched to death. But, just before she dies, her innocence is proved by the confessions of the girl who had given the statement against her. Those of her community, who had started hating her, start fearing her spirit and worships her. And her story thus became part of the 'thotram', the song accompanying the temple dance Theyyam.
Direction & Screenplay: K P Kumaran
Aakashagopuram - 2008
The film is based on renowned Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s classic work ‘The Master Builder’. Set in London among the Indian immigrant community, it tells the story of Albert Samson, a middle-aged architect who has who has clawed his way to prominence. His single-minded focus on his job, however, has hardened him and prevented him and his wife Alice from having a meaningful private life. Into this tension comes Hilda Varghese, a vivacious young woman to whom Samson had promised "a kingdom" when she was tweleve years old. As Samson struggles with the destructive consequences of his monomanical pursuit and his growing fear that he has lost his creative powers, the mysterious Hilda helps him gain a glimpse of his former robust self.
Direction & Screenplay: K P Kumaran
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