The Kerala Film Policy Conclave kicked off in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, marking a significant step toward formulating a comprehensive and future-ready film policy for the State. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the event, said the State has the potential to become a model for other regions in designing a film ecosystem that fosters creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity.

In his keynote address, CM Vijayan highlighted the vital cultural and economic role played by the Malayalam film industry and emphasized the need for a structured policy approach to address its evolving challenges.

“A progressive and inclusive film policy is essential not only for the growth of the Malayalam film industry but also for ensuring that our cinematic heritage continues to inspire future generations,” said CM Vijayan.

Holistic vision for Malayalam cinema

The two-day conclave, attended by filmmakers, producers, technicians, government officials, and policy experts, focuses on developing a roadmap that addresses the core aspects of filmmaking — from content creation, funding, distribution, and exhibition to training, innovation, and international outreach.

The Chief Minister stressed that the proposed policy would seek to strike a balance between artistic freedom and commercial viability, while ensuring equity and opportunity for all segments of the industry, including women, marginalised communities, and independent creators.

“We need to create a system that supports original storytelling, nurtures local talent, and provides infrastructure to enable high-quality production,” he added.

Supporting the entire film ecosystem

According to the Kerala government, the new policy will cover five major pillars:

1. Creative freedom and storytelling excellence

2. Film education and skill development

3. Infrastructure development and ease of doing business

4. Archiving and preserving cinematic heritage

5. Global positioning and cultural diplomacy

Speakers at the conclave emphasized the importance of state-backed film funds, single-window clearance systems, and tax incentives to attract filmmakers from across India and abroad to shoot in Kerala.

Officials from the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC) revealed plans to upgrade film studios, expand digital post-production facilities, and revive single-screen theatres, which continue to struggle post-pandemic.

Artists and experts share inputs

Renowned filmmakers and industry veterans such as Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Shaji N. Karun, Anjali Menon, and B. Unnikrishnan participated in various panel discussions on the future of storytelling, cinema and digital convergence, and audience behaviour post-OTT boom.

Filmmaker Anjali Menon emphasised that policy must also consider gender sensitivity, regional diversity, and intellectual property rights, while Shaji N. Karun urged for reforms in censorship and funding mechanisms to support arthouse and socially relevant films.

“Malayalam cinema has always led from the front in terms of content quality, but it now needs institutional support to stay globally competitive,” said Mr. Karun.

Digital transition and sustainability in focus

One of the key sessions at the conclave dealt with the impact of streaming platforms, the changing revenue models, and the need to recalibrate distribution strategies in a post-pandemic world. Experts discussed ways to protect theatre culture while embracing OTT as a complementary medium.

The conclave also featured a segment on green filmmaking, encouraging the use of eco-friendly production practices, energy-efficient equipment, and waste minimisation during shoots. A policy draft on climate-conscious filmmaking was shared with participants for feedback.

Next steps and policy timeline

The Kerala government plans to finalise the draft film policy by October 2025, incorporating suggestions gathered during the conclave. A working committee of experts, including members from film societies, educational institutions, legal professionals, and media entrepreneurs, will be formed to review and refine the draft.

The final policy is expected to be presented in the Kerala Legislative Assembly in the winter session, followed by budgetary provisions in early 2026.

“Our goal is to make Kerala a film-friendly, artist-friendly, and investor-friendly destination, while retaining the integrity and originality Malayalam cinema is known for,” said Minister for Cultural Affairs, Saji Cherian, who also addressed the gathering.

Conclusion

The Kerala Film Policy Conclave is a landmark event that signals a new era for Malayalam cinema, one rooted in inclusive growth, global ambition, and cultural responsibility. As the conclave progresses with in-depth deliberations and expert panels, it is expected to lay the foundation of a policy framework that could shape the future of Indian regional cinema in the years ahead.

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