'Pazhassi Raja, Ividam Swargamanu' share critics award

Pazhassi Raja, the historical epic starring Mammootty and Mohanlal's Ividam Swargamanu shared the best film award at the Kerala Film Critics awards for 2008 announced here today.

Filmmaker Hariharan was adjudged the best director for Pazhassi Raja while Paleri Manikyam directed by Ranjith was chosen as the second best film.

Innocent was selected as the best actor for his role in Patham Nilayile Theevandi while Kaniha was adjudged the best actress for her performance in Bhagyadevatha.

Madhu Balakrishnan was chosen as the best male playback singer while Jyotsna got the award for the best female voice.

Veteran actor Jagathi Sreekumar was chosen for the special jury prize for his all-round contribution to cinema.

Other awardees included Pasupathi (second best actor), Swetha Menon (second best actress), Baby Nivedita (child artiste), Cheriyan Kalpakavadi (original story), James Albert (script), Shibu Chakravarthy (lyrics), Sreenivas (music director), Ramachandrababu (cinematography), Vijay Sankar (editing), Ajith George (sound mixing), Syril Kuruvila (art direction), Geethu Mohandas (director, best short film) and Reema Kallingal, Archana Kawi (debut talents).

Neelathamara and Passenger were selected as the most popular films by the Critics Jury. The awards were announced by Association president Thekkinkad Joseph and general secretary Mannarakayam Baby.