Joshy Mangalath, a longtime resident of the UAE, is ready to pack his bags for Goa to attend the 46th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The Malayalam film, Ottaal — his screenwriting debut — has been selected for screening.
Mangalath, who won the National award for Best Screenplay this year says, “this story of lost childhood will move viewers with its poignant moments”.
Directed by noted and award winning Malayalam director Jayaraj, Ottaal also won the National award for Best Film on Environment Preservation this year. Mangalath’s story is an adaptation of Russian writer Anton Chekhov’s short story Vanka. While Chekhov’s story was set in Russia, Mangalath’s screenplay is set in Kuttanadu, Alapuzha, Kerala.
Ottaal, which draws attention to the issue of child labour, also received the Kerala state award this year for Best Film. Ottaal releases in Kerala on November 6.
