In the 1970s, a "New Wave" led by Adoor Gopalakrishnan ( Swayamvaram ) and G. Aravindan brought international acclaim to the industry. This era also saw the rise of "middle-stream cinema," spearheaded by Padmarajan , Bharathan , and K.G. George , which bridged the gap between artistic sensibilities and commercial appeal. Modern Evolution and "New Generation" Cinema
The new wave has dared to scratch this wound. Films like Ee.Ma.Yau (2018) by Lijo Jose Pellissery is a surrealistic drama about a lower-caste Christian family trying to give their father a proper burial. It is grotesque, funny, and heartbreaking—highlighting how economic disparity persists even in death. In the 1970s, a "New Wave" led by