One of the prominent screenwriters in Malayalam, Sivaram Narayan Swamy, who is also known as SN Swamy, made an interesting revelation about the 1988 film ‘Moonnam Mura’ starring Megastar Mohanlal in the leading role. Despite facing some issues from the certification board, the movie was highly successful and acclaimed at that time.
During a recent interview with Saina South Plus, SN Swamy disclosed that the climax featured in the final cut of the movie was actually an alternative version, replacing an earlier scene that faced disapproval from the certification board. The film, directed by K Madhu, marked the third collaboration between Swamy and the filmmaker.
Swamy explained that the initial climax, which depicted a scenario where everyone is saved, and the news appears in the newspaper without mentioning the protagonist's name, had encountered objections from the certification board. The committee insisted on avoiding any negative portrayal of the police. Due to time constraints and the inability to approach the revising committee, the filmmakers had to hastily reshoot an alternative climax to secure certification. In the revised ending, the police receive accolades. It was a shift from the original version.
Swamy recalls an incident where Mohanlal's mother attended the preview before the censoring process and opposed any attempts to change the climax. She insisted that alterations portraying the police negatively would not be acceptable.
‘Moonnam Mura’ narrates the tale of a group of high-ranking political officials whose bus is hijacked by terrorists during a trip. The terrorists demand the release of their imprisoned colleagues. The plot takes a significant turn when ex-cop Ali Imran, portrayed by Mohanlal, gets involved in the negotiation to free them. ‘Moonnam Mura’ boasted an ensemble cast, including Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Lalu Alex, Revathi, and Mukesh.
Start a Conversation
Post comment