Roshan, Shahi & Dileesh on Malayalam Cinema | With English Subtitles | InFocus | THR India

In this in-depth interview by Vishal Menon for The Hollywood Reporter's InFocus series, bringing together three prominent figures from Malayalam cinema to discuss the intersection of authentic storytelling and filmmaking. The conversation featured Roshan Mathew, the acclaimed actor known for his versatile performances, alongside writer-director-actor Shahi Kabeer, a former police officer whose real-life experiences have shaped his acclaimed screenwriting career, and Dileesh Pothan, the celebrated filmmaker and actor behind critically lauded films like "Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum."

The wide-ranging discussion explored how Shahi's background as a serving police officer has revolutionized the portrayal of law enforcement in Malayalam cinema, moving away from traditional commercial representations toward gritty, authentic storytelling. Vishal guided the conversation through topics ranging from the unique challenges of directing films based on lived experiences to the evolution of Malayalam cinema's approach to professional authenticity, with particular focus on their collaborative work on "Ronth." The interview also delved into the practical aspects of filmmaking, including the complexities of shooting films that unfold over a single day, the stress differences between police work and filmmaking, and how professionals from various fields are increasingly contributing to Malayalam cinema's reputation for realistic storytelling.