Kerala, known for its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking natural backdrops, has steadily evolved into a major player in the Indian film industry. Often overshadowed by Bollywood and Tollywood, the cinema production scene in Kerala is now drawing national and global attention — and for good reason.
From content-driven storytelling to state-sponsored film-friendly policies, Kerala’s film production industry is poised for rapid growth. In this blog, we explore the top trends shaping this transformation and why more production houses, including Cubes Entertainments, are tapping into Kerala’s creative potential.
1. Rise of Regional Storytelling
Kerala has always been home to powerful narratives. But in recent years, there’s been a major shift: the focus has moved from formulaic plots to emotionally resonant, locally rooted stories.
- Malayalam cinema is now internationally recognized for realistic acting and mature scripting.
- Platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are picking up Kerala-based content.
- There’s a growing appetite for vernacular storytelling with universal themes, attracting non-Malayali audiences.
🎬 Discover more in How Malayalam Cinema Influences Cinema Production in Kerala
2. Digital Platforms and OTT Boom
The OTT revolution has been a game-changer. Kerala-based creators are leveraging platforms to reach global viewers.
Low-budget films with strong content now gain nationwide traction.
Web series and indie films are becoming a viable business model.
Young filmmakers in Kerala are skipping theatrical release entirely and going straight to digital.
This has opened the door for smaller studios and new voices in cinema production.
3. Talent Export and Industry Crossovers
Kerala is no longer producing talent just for Malayalam cinema. Actors, screenwriters, and directors from the state are now leading projects in Bollywood, Tamil, and even international circuits.
Directors like Lijo Jose Pellissery and actors like Fahadh Faasil are making waves across India.
Cross-industry collaborations are more common, with shared production resources and bilingual films.
Technical talent such as editors, DOPs, and composers from Kerala are now in high demand.
4. Government Support and Film-Friendly Policies
The Kerala government is playing an active role in promoting cinema as both art and industry.
Film policy reforms offer tax rebates and incentives for shooting in the state.
Online single-window clearances have streamlined production logistics.
Festivals like the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) provide global visibility.
This makes Kerala not just a cinematic muse but a cost-effective and supportive production environment.
5. Scenic Locations and Infrastructure
From the lush backwaters of Alappuzha to the misty hills of Munnar, Kerala offers diverse, untouched natural backdrops. These landscapes are now being leveraged not only by domestic filmmakers but also by international crews.
New studios and sound stages are coming up in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
Drone and aerial permissions are easier to obtain compared to metro cities.
Location scouting services have become more organized and accessible.
📍 Explore Cubes Entertainments to see how we use Kerala’s cinematic potential in our productions.
6. Eco-Conscious and Sustainable Filmmaking
Kerala’s eco-conscious identity is influencing cinema production trends too.
Many local filmmakers now practice green filming to minimize waste, emissions, and non-renewable energy use.
Studios are investing in sustainable sets and reusable props.
There’s a rise in social documentaries and climate-focused narratives filmed locally.
This aligns with the growing demand for socially responsible entertainment worldwide.
7. Increasing Investment from Outside Kerala
Production houses from Mumbai, Hyderabad, and even overseas are now looking at Kerala as a viable filming destination.
Lower shooting costs and availability of skilled labor make Kerala cost-effective.
There’s access to multilingual talent pools that reduce casting complications.
Kerala’s reputation for hospitality and safety adds to its production appeal.
Studios like Cubes Entertainments are already working on collaborative projects that combine Kerala’s creative spirit with pan-India reach.
8. Education and Training Infrastructure
Several film schools and training institutes in Kerala are now producing world-class talent.
Schools like KR Narayanan Film Institute and C-DIT offer specialized cinema production programs.
Workshops and mentoring sessions with industry veterans are more frequent.
The talent pool is becoming more technically equipped and globally aware. This ensures a steady inflow of skilled professionals into the local production industry.
Future Prospects: What’s Ahead for Kerala’s Cinema Scene
Given the current momentum, the future of cinema production in Kerala looks bright. Here’s what to expect:
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More international co-productions, especially from Europe and Southeast Asia.
Expansion of regional OTT platforms tailored to Malayalam content.
Animation and VFX studios launching operations in Kerala.
Smart cinema parks that combine production, post, and distribution under one roof.
With such promising prospects, Kerala is no longer just a setting for great films. It’s becoming the engine behind them.
Conclusion
Kerala’s cinema production industry stands at the intersection of tradition and transformation. The state offers unmatched storytelling talent, incredible natural beauty, growing infrastructure, and a forward-thinking government — everything needed for successful film production.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or an established studio, Kerala offers opportunities not just to create, but to thrive. At Cubes Entertainments, we’re proud to be part of this journey, collaborating with storytellers and studios to craft cinema that resonates both locally and globally.