Kulakkatil Geevarghese George alias KG George, a legendary director and scriptwriter credited for ushering in a new wave of filmmaking in Malayalam cinema, is no more. A master screenwriter, George has written or co-written all his movies, which are well acclaimed for their usage of music, satire, sarcasm, and aesthetic elements. 

For instance, in his directorial debut ‘Swapnadam’ (1976), George rejected all the usual song and dance numbers, yet managed to win the hearts of the general audience. Being excellent in casting, he was able to bring out the best in his actors too. 

A gold medal winner in film direction from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), George never hesitated to portray grim realities with their own rarities. His 1984 release ‘Panchavadipalam’, which attempted to portray Kerala’s political scenario and the pitiable state of corruption, is the best example in this regard. The movie was even equated with the notorious Palarivattom flyover scam by the Kerala High Court in 2019. 

George continues to enjoy a cult following among film enthusiasts who admire his vivid works, including ‘Adaminte Variyellu’, which narrated a feminist tale in an unusual style, ‘Ulkadal’, which told a campus love story, and ‘Irakal’, one of the best psychological thriller in Malayalam. 

His works had subliminal messages, black humor, and satire. Music and peculiar shots were used for psychoanalytical hues. This can be evidently seen in 'Irakal' released in 1985. 

George is known for detesting copybook film style and his quench for experimenting with new genres. Many also deem him as a person who took the middle path between commercial and parallel cinema. 

Despite many of his works being adjudged state and national honours, KG George still remains one of the least celebrated filmmakers of Malayalam cinema. His last directorial work was ‘Ilavankot Desam’, starring Mammootty, released in 1998. Many contemporary directors like Lijo Jose Pellissery have attributed him as a source of inspiration.