P.A. BACKER

P. A. Backer – The Pioneer of Malayalam Parallel Cinema

P. A. Backer was a revolutionary filmmaker in Malayalam cinema, known for his contributions to the parallel cinema movement in India. His films focused on social realism, political struggles, and human emotions, often challenging mainstream commercial cinema.

Early Life and Background

  • Full Name: P. A. Backer
  • Born: 6 April 1940
  • Birthplace: Trichur, Kerala, India
  • Died: 22 November 1993
  • Occupation: Film Director, Producer, Screenwriter
  • Style: Realism, political themes, socially relevant storytelling

Career and Major Films

P. A. Backer was a pioneer of Malayalam parallel cinema, known for his films on political struggles, social realism, and human emotions. Below is a list of all the films he directed:

1970s – The Beginning of a Revolutionary Filmmaker

  1. Kabani Nadi Chuvannappol (1975)
    • His debut film, dealing with Naxalite movements and social injustice.
    • Won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam.
  2. Manimuzhakkam (1976)
    • Based on E. M. Kovoor’s novel, focusing on social oppression.
    • Won multiple Kerala State Film Awards (Best Film & Best Director).
  3. Chuvanna Vithukal (1978)
    • A political film exploring leftist ideologies and class struggle.
  4. Sanghaganam (1979)
    • Another strong political drama, won Kerala State Film Award for Best Film.

1980s – Continued Socially Relevant Films

  1. Sandhya Mayangum Neram (1983)
    • A psychological drama with deep storytelling.
  2. Inquilab Zindabad (1984)
    • A bold anti-establishment political film.

1990s – Final Film Before His Death

  1. Gandhi Nagar Second Street (1991)
    • One of his last films, focusing on urban struggles and society.

Awards and Recognitions of P. A. Backer

P. A. Backer was a trailblazer of parallel cinema in Malayalam, known for his politically charged and socially relevant films. His works received both national and state-level recognition for their bold storytelling.

🏆 National Film Award

  1. Best Feature Film in Malayalam (1975) – Kabani Nadi Chuvannappol
    • Recognized for its powerful portrayal of Naxalite movements.
    • Established Backer as a pioneer of political cinema in Kerala.

🏆 Kerala State Film Awards

  1. Best Film (1976) – Manimuzhakkam
    • Won for its deep social themes and realistic narrative.
  2. Best Director (1976) – Manimuzhakkam
    • Honored for his exceptional direction and storytelling techniques.
  3. Best Film (1979) – Sanghaganam