I had warned Murali against producing that film, says Venu Kunnappilly

Prominent film producer Venu Kunnappilly has launched a scathing attack on what he describes as the ‘predatory’ practices within the Malayalam film industry, following the financial ruin of a fellow producer.

His comments come in the wake of a viral video by Murali Kunnumpurath, the producer of Sumathi Valavu, who detailed a devastating loss of nearly Rs 7 crore and the subsequent collapse of his personal life. Kunnappilly confirmed the veracity of these claims, warning that the industry is rife with "traps" designed to bleed newcomers dry.

A 'tragedy' foretold

Writing on social media, Venu Kunnappilly revealed that he had cautioned Murali Kunnumpurath years ago in Dubai, advising him against the project due to its poor script quality. "I remember telling him not to move forward," he stated. "However, he was swayed by the crew’s temptations."

According to Venu Kunnappilly, the project’s budget spiralled from an estimated Rs 5 crore to over Rs 15 crore. By the time of its release, the total expenditure—including marketing—reportedly reached Rs 20 crore, far exceeding the film’s market value.

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Call for accountability

The 2018 producer did not mince his words regarding the lack of professional ethics in the industry. He highlighted a disturbing trend of "sincerity-free" individuals who exploit wealthy investors to fund their own arrogance.

"It is a harsh reality that hundreds of producers are being driven to bankruptcy and the brink of suicide," Kunnappilly wrote. "Many remain silent only to save their dignity."

Industry reforms

In a fiery conclusion, Venu Kunnappilly called for the "lifetime banishment" of incompetent directors and crew members who oversee massive budget overruns without accountability. He specifically targeted those who recruit additional investors mid-project to cover their own failures.

The producer ended his statement with a direct challenge to industry bodies, asking when the leadership of film associations would "finally open their eyes" to the plight of those who fund the silver screen.