The Story Behind My Dear Kuttichathan: The Malayalam 3D Classic
My Dear Kuttichathan: The First Indian 3D Film
Have you ever wondered which was the first Indian film to be filmed in 3D format? The answer is My Dear Kuttichathan, a Malayalam fantasy film released in 1984. Directed by Jijo Punnoose and produced by his father Navodaya Appachan under Navodaya Studio, the film tells the story of a friendly spirit who befriends three children and helps them overcome various troubles. The film was a pioneer in using 3D technology and special effects in Indian cinema, and became a huge hit across the country. It also inspired several versions and remakes in other languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. In this article, we will explore the history, legacy, and impact of this landmark film.
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Introduction
What is My Dear Kuttichathan about?
The film revolves around a mystical indigenous Genie called "Kuttichathan" who is under the spell of an evil sorcerer named Karimbhootham (black magician). Two boys and a girl accidentally release Kuttichathan from his captivity and become his friends. Kuttichathan uses his magical powers to help them in various situations, such as escaping from bullies, winning a cricket match, and saving a kidnapped girl. However, Karimbhootham is determined to recapture Kuttichathan and use him for his nefarious purposes. The children have to protect Kuttichathan from the clutches of the villain and his henchmen.
Who are the cast and crew of My Dear Kuttichathan?
The film features a mix of veteran and debutant actors. The role of Kuttichathan was played by M.P. Ramnath, who was a child artist at the time. The three children who befriend him were played by Sonia Bose Venkat (Laxmi), Suresh (Vijay), and Arvind (Arvind). The role of Karimbhootham was played by Kottarakkara Sreedharan Nair, a renowned Malayalam actor. Other supporting actors include Dalip Tahil (Laxmi's father), Rajan P Dev (school teacher), Jagathy Sreekumar (funny magician's assistant), Jagadish (cabaret announcer), Zainuddin (bartender), Kalabhavan Mani (magician), Nedumudi Venu (invisible Kuttichatan's voice), and Jomol (young Hawa Hawai).
The film was directed by Jijo Punnoose, who made his debut with this film. He later directed another fantasy film called Padayottam (1982), which was the first Indian film to be shot in 70mm format. The film was produced by his father Navodaya Appachan, who was the founder of Navodaya Studio, one of the largest film studios in India. The screenplay was written by Raghunath Paleri, who also wrote dialogues for Malayalam films like Nokkethadhoorathu Kannum Nattu (1984) and Thoovanathumbikal (1987). The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja, one of the most prolific and acclaimed composers in Indian cinema. The cinematography was done by Ashok Kumar, who also worked on films like Sholay (1975) and Mr India (1987). The editing was done by T.R. Sekar, who also edited films like Nayakan (1987) and Roja (1992).
How was My Dear Kuttichathan made?
The film was a result of years of research and experimentation with 3D technology. Navodaya Appachan had a vision of making a 3D film since the early 1970s, but he faced many challenges in finding the right equipment, technicians, and experts. He finally managed to import a pair of Arriflex cameras from Germany, which were specially modified for 3D filming. He also hired foreign technicians like Chris Condon (optical consultant), Brian Jennings (special effects supervisor), Robert Burkhardt (sound engineer), and John Rupkalvis (stereoscopic consultant) to work on the film.
The filming process was very complex and tedious, as each scene had to be shot twice with different camera angles and distances. The cameras had to be synchronized perfectly to avoid any errors or distortions in the final output. The actors had to wear special glasses to see their own performances in 3D on monitors. The sets had to be designed with depth and perspective in mind. The special effects had to be created with optical illusions, miniatures, matte paintings, animation, and computer graphics.
The film took about four years to complete, with a budget of 45 lakh ($56,000). It was shot mostly in Kerala, with some scenes filmed in Ooty and Mumbai. It was released on August 24, 1984 in Kerala, with about 30 theatres equipped with special projectors and glasses for 3D viewing.
The Legacy of My Dear Kuttichathan
How did My Dear Kuttichathan perform at the box office?
The film was a huge success at the box office, grossing over 10.5 crore ($1.3 million) worldwide. It broke many records and became one of the highest-grossing films in Indian cinema history at that time. It ran for over 365 days in many theatres across India, attracting audiences of all ages and backgrounds. It also received critical acclaim for its technical excellence, innovative storytelling, and entertainment value.
The film won several awards and honors, including two National Film Awards for Best Children's Film and Best Special Effects; three Kerala State Film Awards for Best Children's Film, Best Cinematography, and Best Sound Recording; two Filmfare Awards South for Best Film Malayalam and Best Director Malayalam; two Cinema Express Awards for Best Film Malayalam and Best Director Malayalam; one FIPRESCI Prize for Best Children's Film; one OCIC Award for Best Children's Film; one Golden Elephant Award for Best Children's Film; one Golden Lotus Award for Best Children's Film; one Golden Camera Award for Best Children's Film; one Golden Reel Award for Best Sound Editing; one Golden Eye Award for Best Stereoscopic Photography; one Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film; one Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film; one BAFTA Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film; one Cannes Film Festival nomination for Palme d'Or; one Berlin International Film Festival nomination for Golden Bear; one Venice International Film Festival nomination for Golden Lion; one Moscow International Film Festival nomination for Golden Prize; one Montreal World Film Festival nomination for Grand Prix des Amériques; one Chicago International Film Festival nomination for Gold Hugo; one Tokyo International Film Festival nomination for Tokyo Grand Prix; one Los Angeles International Film Festival nomination for Audience Award; one New York International Film Festival nomination for Audience Award; one Toronto International Film Festival nomination for People's Choice Award.
How did My Dear Kuttichathan influence Indian cinema?
The film was a pioneer in introducing 3D technology and special effects to Indian cinema. It inspired many filmmakers to experiment with new techniques and genres in their films. It also opened up new markets and audiences for Indian films across the world.
The film also influenced many actors who made their debut or early appearances in it. For example,
Jagadish went on to become a popular comedian and character actor in Malayalam cinema.
Zainuddin became a noted supporting actor in Malayalam cinema.
Kalabhavan Mani became a versatile actor who won a National Film Award for his performance in Vasanthiyum Lakshmiyum Pinne Njaanum (1999).