‘Half’ makes history as first Malayalam film in TIFF’s Midnight Madness

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Director Samjad PS’ upcoming Malayalam film ‘Half’ has achieved a major international milestone by becoming the first Malayalam film to screen in the Midnight Madness section of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

The film received a strong response from international audiences at its screening, with viewers applauding at several points and continuing the interaction during an engaging question-and-answer session with the cast and crew.

‘Half’ makes history at TIFF’s Midnight Madness

According to an IANS report, ‘Half’ drew an enthusiastic response from the audience during its Midnight Madness screening. The packed theatre reportedly erupted in applause at several points, with viewers also discussing the film’s intense world and distinctive presentation after the screening.The energy continued during the Q&A session, where members of the team interacted with the international audience and discussed various aspects of the film. Director Samjad PS attended the session alongside producers Anne Sajeev and P. K. Sajeev, actors Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj, composer Mithun Mukundan and sound designer Vishnu Govind.

Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj discuss their performances

The performances of the lead actors also became a talking point during the interaction.

Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj answered questions from viewers about their respective characters and the process of bringing them to life. The audience’s questions offered the actors an opportunity to discuss the challenges involved in portraying the characters within the film’s intense and immersive world.

‘Half’ draws attention for action and sound design

The film’s action sequences also received attention during the discussion, with fight choreographer Very Tri Yulisman being credited for the film’s action choreography.

The music and sound design were also highlighted for their role in creating the film’s atmosphere and immersive quality. Vishnu Govind has handled the sound design, while Mithun Mukundan has composed the music.

‘Half’ boasts a strong technical team

‘Half’ features a technical team led by cinematographer Pappinu and editor Mahesh Bhuvanend. Vishnu Govind has also contributed as the sound designer, while Mithun Mukundan has composed the film’s score.

Produced by Anne Sajeev and P. K. Sajeev under the banner of Fragrant Nature Film Creations, the film aims to offer a raw and immersive cinematic experience.

‘Half’ gets international backing

The film’s international journey has also been supported by partnerships for its distribution and sales. Excel Entertainment and AA Films are presenting and distributing ‘Half’ across North India. Meanwhile, the film’s international sales rights have been acquired by Best Friend Forever (BFF), further expanding its reach beyond the Malayalam-speaking market.