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{{Short description |Indian film producer (1929 – 2016)}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{Multiple issues|
{{More citations needed|date=July 2020}}
{{More citations needed|date=July 2020}}
{{Peacock|date=July 2020}}
{{Peacock|date=July 2020}}
{{Essay|date=October 2024}}
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{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2018}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
|name = M.O. Joseph
| name = M.O. Joseph
|image =M.O.Joseph and Kunjamma Joseph.jpg
| image = M.O.Joseph and Kunjamma Joseph.jpg
| caption = Joseph and his wife, Kunjamma, 2016
| caption = Joseph and his wife Kunjamma, 2016
|birth_date ={{Birth date |df=yes|1929|1|15}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date |df=yes|1929|1|15}}
|birth_place =[[Kerala]], India
| birth_place = [[Thrissur]], [[Kerala]], [[India]]
|death_date = {{death date and age|2016|1|8|1929|1|15|df=y}}
| death_date = {{death date and age|2016|1|8|1929|1|15|df=y}}
|death_place = [[Chennai]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]
| death_place = [[Chennai]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]
|occupation = Film Producer
| occupation = [[Film producer]]
|yearsactive = 1967–1983
| yearsactive = 1967–1983
| spouse = Kunjamma Joseph
| spouse = Kunjamma Joseph
| children = 5
| children = 5
}}
}}
'''Manjilas Ouseph Joseph''' (15 January 1929 – 8 January 2016) was a [[Malayalam]] producer.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mollywood Producer Manjilas Joseph Biography, News, Photos, Videos |url=https://nettv4u.com/celebrity/malayalam/producer/manjilas-joseph |access-date=2023-05-28 |website=nettv4u |language=en}}</ref> He produced over 30 films in the 1960s and 1970s, most notably [[Yakshi (film)|Yakshi]], [[Adimakal]], [[Devi (1972 film)|Devi]], [[Chattakkari (1974 film)|Chattakkari]], [[Anubhavangal Palichakal]], and [[Punarjanmam]].<ref>{{cite web|title=List of malayalam movies under the banner Manjilas|url=http://www.malayalachalachithram.com/movieslist.php?bn=836|website=Malayalam Movie and Music Database}}</ref> He won numerous awards, including National Film Awards and Kerala State Film Awards and two [[Filmfare Awards South]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aoPiAAAAMAAJ&q=vazhve+mayam |title=The Times of India Directory and Year Book Including Who's who |date=1971 |language=en}}</ref>
{{Citation needed|date=January 2025}}'''Manjilas Ouseph Joseph''' (15 January 1929 – 8 January 2016) was a [[Malayalis|Malayali]] [[film producer]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mollywood Producer Manjilas Joseph Biography, News, Photos, Videos |url=https://nettv4u.com/celebrity/malayalam/producer/manjilas-joseph |access-date=2023-05-28 |website=nettv4u |language=en}}</ref> He produced over 30 films in the 1960s and 1970s, most notably [[Yakshi (film)|Yakshi]], [[Adimakal]], [[Devi (1972 film)|Devi]], [[Chattakkari (1974 film)|Chattakkari]], [[Anubhavangal Palichakal]], and [[Punarjanmam]].<ref>{{cite web|title=List of Malayalam movies under the banner Manjilas|url=http://www.malayalachalachithram.com/movieslist.php?bn=836|website=Malayalam Movie and Music Database}}</ref> He won numerous awards, including [[National Film Awards]], [[Kerala State Film Awards]] and two [[Filmfare Awards South]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aoPiAAAAMAAJ&q=vazhve+mayam |title=The Times of India Directory and Year Book Including Who's who |date=1971 |language=en}}</ref>


==Early life==
==Early life==
Joseph was born on 15 January 1929, and grew up in the bustling temple town of [[Thrissur]], where his father was the manager of the [[Jose Theatre]].<ref>{{cite web|title=M.O Joseph Biography|url=http://www.veethi.com/india-people/m.o._joseph-profile-8110-14.htm|website=Veethi: The face of India}}</ref> The [[Jose Theatre]] was the first cinema theatre to be set up in [[Kerala]], as early as 1913. He studied at [[St. Thomas College, Thrissur]], and completed his graduation in BCom from the Sacred Heart College in [[Ernakulam]], where his father had joined the Shenoy Theatres. When he had completed his studies, his father suggested that he join [[T. E. Vasudevan]], who was distributing and producing films under the banner of Associated Pictures as an apprentice. Joseph joined them in 1950 on an initial salary of ₹150 per month and quickly picked up the skills required in the role. Associated Pictures was a partnership with the Shenoys as financial partners, but some years later, [[T. E. Vasudevan|Vasudevan]] launched out on his own and started JayaMaruthi Pictures. Joseph joined him.
Joseph was born on 15 January 1929, and grew up in [[Thrissur]], where his father was the manager of the [[Jose Theatre]].<ref>{{cite web|title=M.O Joseph Biography|url=http://www.veethi.com/india-people/m.o._joseph-profile-8110-14.htm|website=Veethi: The face of India}}</ref> He studied at [[St. Thomas College, Thrissur|St. Thomas College]], and later graduated with a [[Bachelor of Commerce]] from the Sacred Heart College in [[Ernakulam]], where his father had joined the Shenoy Theatres.{{Citation needed|date=January 2025}} When he completed his education, Joseph's father suggested that he join [[T. E. Vasudevan]], who was distributing and producing films under the banner of Associated Pictures as an apprentice.


== Career ==
⚫
Joseph moved to [[Chennai]] in 1951 to manage the regional business of Associated Pictures. By 1966, Joseph had built his own contacts in the industry and was ready to start on his own. His first foray into independent filmmaking was in a partnership with P. Balthazar, who was a neighbour in Kodambakkam, and Balthazar's cousin, NV Joseph. Balthazar was a businessman dealing with contract work and trading and wanted to get into films. Joseph provided that opportunity, and this partnership which was called Navjeevan Films, resulted in two films<ref>{{cite news|title=He was no ordinary producer|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kozhikode/He-was-no-ordinary-producer/article13995789.ece|date=10 January 2016|newspaper=The Hindu|first=P.J. Ajith|last=Kumar|accessdate=28 October 2018}}</ref>
Joseph joined Vasudevan in 1950 on an initial salary of [[Indian rupee|₹]]150 per month (1.77 [[United States dollar|US Dollars]]). Associated Pictures was in a financial partnership with the [[Shenoys Theatre|Shenoys]], however [[T. E. Vasudevan|Vasudevan]] later launched his own business by starting JayaMaruthi Pictures, with Joseph joining him.
The first film, ‘[[Naadan Pennu]]’ was launched in 1967, and was directed by [[KS Sethumadhavan]], who would go on to direct some of the best [[Malayalam]] films of those times. The film established Joseph's credibility in the industry as a good producer and broke even in commercial terms. The second film did likewise. It was ‘[[Thokkukal Kadha Parayunnu]]’, which was also directed by [[KS Sethumadhavan|Sethumadhavan]], and featured the leading actors of those times, including [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]], [[Prem Nazir]] and [[Sheela]].


⚫
Joseph moved to [[Madras]] (Now Chennai) in 1951 to manage the regional business of Associated Pictures. Joseph's first foray into [[independent filmmaking]] was in a partnership with P. Balthazar and NV Joseph, with production company Navajeevan Films.<ref>{{cite news|title=He was no ordinary producer|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kozhikode/He-was-no-ordinary-producer/article13995789.ece|date=10 January 2016|newspaper=The Hindu|first=P.J. Ajith|last=Kumar|accessdate=28 October 2018}}</ref> The first film, ‘[[Naadan Pennu]]’ was released in 1967, and was directed by [[KS Sethumadhavan]].
In the run-up to the third film, there were differences among the partners. Joseph had decided to produce a film on the unlikely story of a young man who confuses his love with a ghost. He was convinced that it would make a great story, but his partners did not like the idea, so they parted ways. ‘Yakshi’, based on a story written by [[Malayattoor Ramakrishnan]], turned out to be a big hit, and established the new banner, Manjilas after the family name, as a new household name in [[Kerala]]. The film was noted for its excellent cinematography, by Melli Irani.<ref>{{cite web|title=Melli Irani: Profile|url=http://en.msidb.org/displayProfile.php?category=camera&artist=Melli%20Irani|website=Malayalam Music and Movie Encyclopedia}}</ref> Its music, composed by Devarajan was a highlight of this all-time musical hit.


⚫
As [[Malayalam cinema]] became more prolific in the 1960's and 70's, Joseph would gain more fame. The shooting for each film was mostly done outdoors and would be completed in a stretch of some three to four weeks. The remaining shots which were based on fabricated sets were done in one of the studios in [[Kodambakkam]]. The big studio houses were Vidya Studios, [[Vahini studios|Vahini Studios]] and [[Bharani Studios]].{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} Directors who Joseph worked with include [[KS Sethumadhavan]], Thoppil Baasi and [[I. V. Sasi|IV Sasi]]. The Manjilas banner produced around 25 films in total, from 1968 to 1984.
==Notable Manjilas Films==
Joseph believed in good quality, and he followed this philosophy right from the beginning. He researched extensively to select the right stories, engaged the best actors, and took great care to ensure that every shot was well done. It made good business sense, for he made an impact with financiers, who recognized in him, the ability to deliver reliably each time.

In most of his films, the same set of actors performed. The leading pair would often be the same and [[Adoor Bhasi]], [[Bahadoor]] and [[Sankaradi]] would be the stock comedians. The father of the girl would invariably be played by [[Sankaradi]]. [[Paravoor Bharathan]], [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]], [[Prem Nazir]], Oommar, Madhu and Soman were some of the leading male actors, and the female lead roles were played by [[Sheela]], Jaya Bharathy, Sharada, Vidhu Bala, and Laxmi among others.

The Manjilas banner produced a series of good films. Joseph came up with bold and unusual stories, juxtaposed in the social milieu of those times. ‘Kadal Paalam’ is the story of an arrogant father and his efforts to retain control over his family. In this movie, [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] plays a dual role, that of the blind and obstinate father, as well as that of his rebellious son. Written by KT Mohammad, and directed by [[KS Sethumadhavan]], the film was critically well acclaimed, and a box office hit.

In ‘Vazhave Maayam’, he told the story of an older man married to a young and beautiful woman. [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] in the lead, begins to suspect that his wife, played by [[Sheela]], has a lover. This culminates in a scene when a sheepish [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] is exposed while spying on his wife, hidden in a cupboard in the bedroom. The enraged [[Sheela]] then packs her bags, never to return. Pride and circumstance keep both man and woman from coming together again. The story also stood out for the message that it was possible for a married woman to carve out a new life, instead of moping and languishing in a corner; instead, it was the man who wasted his life in this story. Most of Joseph's films featured strong female characters, who were integral to the story being told. There was no stereotyping of characters, or any application of formula to making a movie.

‘[[Anubhavangal Paalichakal]]’ is another landmark film, which released in 1971.<ref>{{cite news|title=Anubhavangal Paalichakal|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/anubhavangal-palichakal/article4687562.ece|website=The Hindu|date=6 May 2013|last1=Vijayakumar|first1=B.}}</ref> The story is based on [[Thakazhi]]’s novel of the same name. The film recounts the experience of a union leader, easily provoked to violence, who came to be regarded as a champion of the working class. His rebellious life runs in parallel to his personal story, where his wife, who does not get his attention or time, becomes closer to a co-worker. As the protagonist goes to jail for a murder he commits, she starts living with the other man in her life.

The film deals sympathetically with both the union leader's compulsions, as well as the motives and challenges which persuade the leading lady, played by [[Sheela]], to take a second husband. In the final part of the story, [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] discovers his wife’s infidelity, but does not take the conventional revenge on the other man, but simply gives himself up to the police.

[[Utpal Dutt]], on seeing [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan's]] performance in ‘[[Anubhavangal Paalichakal]]’ - remarked
"in the face lined with the agony and threats of an ordinary laborer …I could discern the great talent of [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] portraying the inner chaos of an ordinary worker…"

This was the last film of [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]]. In fact, he died suddenly, before the film was completed, and the film had to be completed by a double. The death of [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] was a double blow to Joseph, as besides being a leading man in many of his movies, he was also a close friend.<ref>{{cite web|title=SathyanBiography|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article439690.ece?service=print|website=My big father - Sathyan}}{{dead link|date=February 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> Joseph went out of his way to ensure that [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] got a farewell befitting the icon that he had become.
Ara Naayika Neram was produced in 1970, directed by [[KS Sethumadhavan|Sethumadhavan]]. It is a gloomy saga of a decadent family as witnessed through the eyes of the grand old patriarch-Kunjochanam ([[Kottarakkara]]). We are given insight into the lives of different members of this family, and come across an interesting range of characters. After witnessing many a tragedy and ups and downs the [[octogenarian]] is struck with paralysis and loses his power of speech. He then he suffers the rudest shock of his life when he sees his daughter-in-law carry on an affair with an opium dealer. The opium dealer poisons him for fear of their secret being let out if ever he regains his speech. The film ends with the guilt ridden daughter-in-law committing suicide.

[[Punarjanmam]] was another landmark film. It was based on a novel written by Dr AT Kovoor, who had become famous for his fight against blind belief in rituals and customs. He used to write in a Malayalam weekly called ‘Jaya Kerala’ which Joseph read. Someone wrote a letter to the editor that Punar Janmam, the novel written by Dr Kovoor, would make a good movie, and only Manjilas could do justice to the story. This letter attracted Joseph's attention. He got in touch with Kovoor, and bought the film rights to the story. Kovoor was based in Sri Lanka (Ceylon in those days). The two men soon became friends. When the shooting was going on, Dr. Kovoor came and stayed with Joseph's family in Madras several times. [[Punarjanmam]] proved to be a super hit!

Another superhit film was ‘[[Chattakkari (1974 film)|Chattakkari]]’ which was later produced in Hindi by [[Nagi Reddy]] as ‘Julie’. 'Chattakkari’ was the story of an [[Anglo-Indian]] family who were coming to terms with the new Indian reality. Both the [[Malayalam]] and Hindi films made waves in those times, and are well remembered by the general public.

⚫
In the 1960s and ‘70s, [[Malayalam cinema]] was fairly prolific. Around 30 films were produced each year, of which the Manjilas banner often came out with 2 or 3 films. The shooting for each film was mostly done outdoors and would be completed in a stretch of some three to four weeks. The remaining shots which were based on fabricated sets were done in one of the studios in [[Kodambakkam]]. The big studio houses were Vidya Studios, [[Vahini studios|Vahini Studios]] and [[Bharani Studios]].

Production houses like Manjilas operated on lean budgets and lean staffing. They would enter into individual contracts with the actors for each film, and then would get them to sign call sheets which helped block dates of the actors and helped firm up the calendar for the year. The company would have just two or three staff employees who took care of coordination, procurement and accounts. Joseph would himself handle the functions of theme and story selection, casting and production. He would closely involve himself with every stage of production.
The direction for almost 15 of his movies was done by [[KS Sethumadhavan]], so the two were very close to each other. Other directors who he worked with include Thoppil Baasi, the well known script writer who directed Ponni, and IV Sasi who directed ‘Njaan Njaan Maatram’ and ‘Ivar’.

The Manjilas banner produced some 25 films in total, from 1968 to 1984. Joseph maintained control on all the departments of film making. He would even sit with the script writer, giving suggestions on how to turn a story. He would also carefully read each script and make detailed corrections. The Malayalam film world was a smaller community in those days. Joseph's good friends were [[Vayalar Ravi]] (writer), Thoppil Baasi (writer), KG Menon, [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] (lead actor) and [[Vasudevan Nair]] (producer) and he relied on his interaction with these men, artists and men of letters for his ideas and the direction that his films would take.


==Contributions To Malayalam Film Industry==
==Contributions To Malayalam Film Industry==
⚫
Joseph played an important role in establishing several key institutions in the [[Malayalam cinema|Malayalam film industry]]. He was one of the founders of the Malayalam Chalachitra Parishad,<ref>{{cite news|title=TE Vasudevan: Cinema is his world|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-is-his-world/article4904720.ece|website=The Hindu|date=11 July 2013|last1=Shivpprasadh|first1=S.}}</ref> along with [[Ramu Karyat]] and [[Vasudevan|TE Vasudevan]]. The organization helped aged and in-need film artist's and their families. In the beginning, the office of the Parishad started in the Manjilas office. When [[Sathyan (Malayalam actor)|Sathyan]] died, his body was kept in the Manjilas office for public display, since it was also the office of the Chalachitra Parishad.
[[File:M.O.Joseph and Kunjamma Joseph.jpg|thumbnail|right|M.O Joseph and wife Kunjamma Joseph]]
⚫
Joseph played an important role in establishing several key institutions in the [[Malayalam cinema|Malayalam film industry]]. He was one of the founders of the Malayalam Chalachitra Parishad,<ref>{{cite news|title=TE Vasudevan: Cinema is his world|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-is-his-world/article4904720.ece|website=The Hindu|date=11 July 2013|last1=Shivpprasadh|first1=S.}}</ref> along with [[Ramu Karyat]] and [[Vasudevan|TE Vasudevan]]. The organization helped aged and needy film artistes and their families. In the beginning, the office of the Parishad started in the Manjilas office. When [[Sathyan (actor)|Sathyan]] died, his body was kept in the Manjilas office for public display, since it was also the office of the Chalachitra Parishad.


Later, Joseph helped raise funds for the organization by organizing Star Nites, which were a hugely popular mix of show-biz, music and drama, which were held in different towns of [[Kerala]]. Stars such as [[Prem Nazir]] and Sheila and singers such as P. Leela contributed their time to these shows. From the funds collected through these Star Nites, and from donations, the Parishad was able to buy its own land in [[Mambalam]], [[Chennai]] and construct its own double storied offices. Joseph continued as the Treasurer of the Parishad for many years. He was also a founder member of the management committee of [[Asan Memorial College of Engineering and Technology|Asan Memorial Group of institutions]] and functional as its Vice President.
Later, Joseph helped raise funds for by organizing Star Nites, which were a hugely popular mix of show-biz, music and drama, which were held in different towns of [[Kerala]]. Stars such as [[Prem Nazir]], Sheila and singers such as P. Leela contributed their time to these shows. From the funds collected through Star Nites, and from donations, the Parishad was able to buy its own land in [[Mambalam]], [[Chennai]] and construct its own double storied offices. Joseph continued as the Treasurer of the Parishad. He was also a founder member of the management committee of [[Asan Memorial College of Engineering and Technology|Asan Memorial Group of institutions]] and functioned as its Vice President.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}}


[[File:M.O.Joseph - Children.jpg|thumbnail|left]]
[[File:M.O.Joseph - Children.jpg|thumbnail|left]]


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
He married Kunjamma Joseph at the age of 24 in 1953. They have five children.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}
He married Kunjamma Joseph at the age of 24 in 1953. They had five children.<ref>{{cite web |title=Legendary producer M O Joseph passes away |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/legendary-producer-m-o-joseph-passes-away/articleshow/50510062.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=7 November 2024 |date=9 January 2016}}</ref>


==Filmography==
==Filmography==
MO Joseph and Manjilas contributed some of the most iconic films of his times. A list of his films and some of the awards won<ref>{{cite web|title=Manjilas Banner List of movies|url=http://en.msidb.org/displayProfile.php?category=banner&artist=Manjilas|website=Malayalam Music and Movie Encyclopedia}}</ref>
A list of M. O. Joseph's films.<ref>{{cite web|title=Manjilas Banner List of movies|url=http://en.msidb.org/displayProfile.php?category=banner&artist=Manjilas|website=Malayalam Music and Movie Encyclopedia}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable sortable"
{| class="wikitable sortable"
Line 82: Line 55:
| 3 || ''[[Yakshi (film)|YAKSHI]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1968 || Sathyan, Sharada ||
| 3 || ''[[Yakshi (film)|YAKSHI]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1968 || Sathyan, Sharada ||
|-
|-
| 4 || ''[[Adimakal|ADIMAKAL]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1969 || Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Sharada || Best Picture in Malayalam <br> NATIONAL AWARD for Best Feature Film
| 4 || ''[[Adimakal|ADIMAKAL]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1969 || Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Sharada || Best Picture in Malayalam NATIONAL AWARD for Best Feature Film
|-
|-
| 5 || ''[[Kadalpalam|KADALPPALAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1969 || Sathyan, Jayabharathi, KP Ummer ||
| 5 || ''[[Kadalpalam|KADALPPALAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1969 || Sathyan, Jayabharathi, KP Ummer ||
Line 88: Line 61:
| 6 || ''[[Vazhve Mayam|VAAZHVE MAYAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1970 || Sathyan, Sheela ||
| 6 || ''[[Vazhve Mayam|VAAZHVE MAYAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1970 || Sathyan, Sheela ||
|-
|-
| 7 || ''[[Aranazhika Neram|ARANAAAZHIKA NERAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1970 || Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Ambika (Old), Kottarakkara || Best Director <br> Best Story <br> Best Actor
| 7 || ''[[Aranazhika Neram|ARANAAAZHIKA NERAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1970 || Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Ambika (Old), Kottarakkara || Best Director <br>Best Story <br>Best Actor
|-
|-
| 8 || ''[[Anubhavangal Paalichakal|ANUBHAVANAGAL PAALICHAKAL]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1971 || Sathyan, Sheela || Best Picture in Malayalam
| 8 || ''[[Anubhavangal Paalichakal|ANUBHAVANAGAL PAALICHAKAL]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1971 || Sathyan, Sheela || Best Picture in Malayalam
Line 98: Line 71:
| 11 || ''[[Chukku|CHUKKU]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1973 || Madhu, Sheela ||
| 11 || ''[[Chukku|CHUKKU]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1973 || Madhu, Sheela ||
|-
|-
| 12 || ''[[Kaliyugam|KALIYUGAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1973 || Jayabharathi, Sudheer, Bahadoor ||
| 12 || ''[[Kaliyugam (1973 film)|KALIYUGAM]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1973 || Jayabharathi, Sudheer, Bahadoor ||
|-
|-
| 13 || ''[[Chattakkari (1974 film)|CHATTAKKAARI]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1974 || Lakshmi, Mohan Sharma || Best Picture in Malayalam<br>Best Actress
| 13 || ''[[Chattakkari (1974 film)|CHATTAKKAARI]]''|| Manjilas Films || KS Sethu Madhavan || 1974 || Lakshmi, Mohan Sharma || Best Picture in Malayalam<br>Best Actress
Line 130: Line 103:


==Awards==
==Awards==
Joseph was recognized for his ‘outstanding contribution to the growth and development of [[Malayalam films]]’ by [[K. Karunakaran]], Chief Minister of Kerala in 1985. In 1996, he was again awarded for ‘outstanding contribution to [[Malayalam cinema]]’ by the [[Government of Kerala]]. Some of the other notable awards that he has received include:
Joseph was recognized for his ‘outstanding contribution to the growth and development of [[Malayalam films]]’ by [[K. Karunakaran]], Chief Minister of Kerala in 1985.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} In 1996, he was again awarded for ‘outstanding contribution to [[Malayalam cinema]]’ by the [[Government of Kerala]].{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} Some of the other notable awards that he has received include:
* Contribution to [[Malayalam Film Industry]], Kerala Film Producers Association, 2001
* Contribution to [[Malayalam Film Industry]], Kerala Film Producers Association, 2001
* Creative Producer, Amrutha Film Fraternity, 2005
* Creative Producer, Amrutha Film Fraternity, 2005
* Outstanding contribution to [[Malayalam Cinema]], Kerala State Film Development Corporation, 2007{{citation needed|date=September 2021}}
* Outstanding contribution to [[Malayalam Cinema]], Kerala State Film Development Corporation, 2007{{citation needed|date=September 2021}}


;[[Filmfare Awards South]]
;[[Filmfare Awards South|Film fare Awards South]]
* [[Filmfare Award for Best Film - Malayalam]] - ''[[Adimakal]]'' (1969)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Q5UqAAAAYAAJ&q=1969+M.O.Joseph|title = Collections|year = 1991}}</ref>
* [[Filmfare Award for Best Film - Malayalam|Film fare Award for Best Film - Malayalam]] - ''[[Adimakal]]'' (1969)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Q5UqAAAAYAAJ&q=1969+M.O.Joseph|title = Collections|year = 1991}}</ref>
* [[Filmfare Award for Best Film - Malayalam]] - ''[[Vaazhve Mayam|Vazhve Mayam]]'' (1970)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aoPiAAAAMAAJ&q=vazhve+mayam|title = The Times of India Directory and Year Book Including Who's who|year = 1971}}</ref>
* [[Filmfare Award for Best Film - Malayalam|Film fare Award for Best Film - Malayalam]] - ''[[Vaazhve Mayam|Vazhve Mayam]]'' (1970)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aoPiAAAAMAAJ&q=vazhve+mayam|title = The Times of India Directory and Year Book Including Who's who|year = 1971}}</ref>


==Death==
==Death==
Joseph died on 8 January 2016 at his home in [[San Thome|San Thomas]], [[Chennai]] just before his 87th birthday.<ref>{{cite web|title=Film producer Manjilas Joseph passes away|url=http://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/movie-news/film-producer-manjilas-joseph-passes-away-english-news-1.784769|website=Mathrubhumi}}</ref>
Joseph died on the 8th of January 2016 at his home in [[San Thome|San Thomas]], [[Chennai]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Film producer Manjilas Joseph passes away|url=http://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/movie-news/film-producer-manjilas-joseph-passes-away-english-news-1.784769|website=Mathrubhumi}}</ref>


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 11:44, 10 January 2025

M.O. Joseph
Joseph and his wife Kunjamma, 2016
Born(1929-01-15)15 January 1929
Thrissur, Kerala, India
Died8 January 2016(2016-01-08) (aged 86)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
OccupationFilm producer
Years active1967–1983
SpouseKunjamma Joseph
Children5

[citation needed]Manjilas Ouseph Joseph (15 January 1929 – 8 January 2016) was a Malayali film producer.[1] He produced over 30 films in the 1960s and 1970s, most notably Yakshi, Adimakal, Devi, Chattakkari, Anubhavangal Palichakal, and Punarjanmam.[2] He won numerous awards, including National Film Awards, Kerala State Film Awards and two Filmfare Awards South.[3]

Early life

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Joseph was born on 15 January 1929, and grew up in Thrissur, where his father was the manager of the Jose Theatre.[4] He studied at St. Thomas College, and later graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the Sacred Heart College in Ernakulam, where his father had joined the Shenoy Theatres.[citation needed] When he completed his education, Joseph's father suggested that he join T. E. Vasudevan, who was distributing and producing films under the banner of Associated Pictures as an apprentice.

Career

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Joseph joined Vasudevan in 1950 on an initial salary of ₹150 per month (1.77 US Dollars). Associated Pictures was in a financial partnership with the Shenoys, however Vasudevan later launched his own business by starting JayaMaruthi Pictures, with Joseph joining him.

Joseph moved to Madras (Now Chennai) in 1951 to manage the regional business of Associated Pictures. Joseph's first foray into independent filmmaking was in a partnership with P. Balthazar and NV Joseph, with production company Navajeevan Films.[5] The first film, ‘Naadan Pennu’ was released in 1967, and was directed by KS Sethumadhavan.

As Malayalam cinema became more prolific in the 1960's and 70's, Joseph would gain more fame. The shooting for each film was mostly done outdoors and would be completed in a stretch of some three to four weeks. The remaining shots which were based on fabricated sets were done in one of the studios in Kodambakkam. The big studio houses were Vidya Studios, Vahini Studios and Bharani Studios.[citation needed] Directors who Joseph worked with include KS Sethumadhavan, Thoppil Baasi and IV Sasi. The Manjilas banner produced around 25 films in total, from 1968 to 1984.

Contributions To Malayalam Film Industry

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Joseph played an important role in establishing several key institutions in the Malayalam film industry. He was one of the founders of the Malayalam Chalachitra Parishad,[6] along with Ramu Karyat and TE Vasudevan. The organization helped aged and in-need film artist's and their families. In the beginning, the office of the Parishad started in the Manjilas office. When Sathyan died, his body was kept in the Manjilas office for public display, since it was also the office of the Chalachitra Parishad.

Later, Joseph helped raise funds for by organizing Star Nites, which were a hugely popular mix of show-biz, music and drama, which were held in different towns of Kerala. Stars such as Prem Nazir, Sheila and singers such as P. Leela contributed their time to these shows. From the funds collected through Star Nites, and from donations, the Parishad was able to buy its own land in Mambalam, Chennai and construct its own double storied offices. Joseph continued as the Treasurer of the Parishad. He was also a founder member of the management committee of Asan Memorial Group of institutions and functioned as its Vice President.[citation needed]

Personal life

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He married Kunjamma Joseph at the age of 24 in 1953. They had five children.[7]

Filmography

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A list of M. O. Joseph's films.[8]

Name of Film Banner Direction Year Cast Awards
1 NAADAN PENNU Navajeevan Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1967 Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Jayabharathi
2 THOKKUKAL KADHA PARAYANNU Navajeevan Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1968 Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela
3 YAKSHI Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1968 Sathyan, Sharada
4 ADIMAKAL Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1969 Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Sharada Best Picture in Malayalam NATIONAL AWARD for Best Feature Film
5 KADALPPALAM Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1969 Sathyan, Jayabharathi, KP Ummer
6 VAAZHVE MAYAM Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1970 Sathyan, Sheela
7 ARANAAAZHIKA NERAM Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1970 Prem Nazir, Sathyan, Sheela, Ambika (Old), Kottarakkara Best Director
Best Story
Best Actor
8 ANUBHAVANAGAL PAALICHAKAL Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1971 Sathyan, Sheela Best Picture in Malayalam
9 DEVI[citation needed] Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1972 Prem Nazir, Madhu, Sheela
10 PUNARJANMAM Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1972 Prem Nazir, Jayabharathi Best Picture in Malayalam
11 CHUKKU Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1973 Madhu, Sheela
12 KALIYUGAM Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1973 Jayabharathi, Sudheer, Bahadoor
13 CHATTAKKAARI Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1974 Lakshmi, Mohan Sharma Best Picture in Malayalam
Best Actress
14 MAKKAL Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1975 Jayabharathi, Kaviyoor Ponnamma
15 CHUVANNA SADHAYAKAL Manjilas Films KS Sethu Madhavan 1975 Lakshmi, Mohan Sharma
16 MISSI Manjilas Films Thopil Bhasi 1976 Lakshmi, Mohan Sharma, KP Ummer
17 PONNI Manjilas Films Thopil Bhasi 1976 Kamalahasan, Lakshmi
18 AGNINAKSHATARAM Manjilas Films A Vincent 1977 Lakshmi, Mohan Sharma
19 GURUVAYOOR KESAVAN Manjilas Films Bharathan 1977 Jayabharathi, MG Soman, Adoor Bhasi
20 NJAAN NJAAN MAATHARAM Manjilas Films IV Sasi 1978 Madhu, Jayabharathi, Jose, Seema Best Picture in Malayalam
21 ANIYARA Manjilas Films Bharathan 1978 Soman, Padma
22 EZHUNIRANGAL Manjilas Films Jeasy 1979 Jose, Vidhubala
23 IVAR Manjilas Films IV Sasi 1980 Sharada, Seema, Jose
24 PARANKIMALA Manjilas Films Bharathan 1981 Benny, Soorya, Rani Padmini
25 ODUKKAM TUHDAKKAM Manjilas Films Malayatoor Ramakrishnan 1982 Ratheesh, Kalaranjini, Rajkumar, Nanditha Bose, KP Ummer
26 EENAM Manjilas Films Bharathan 1983 Venu Nagavally, Shanthi Krishna, Unni Mary

Awards

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Joseph was recognized for his ‘outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Malayalam films’ by K. Karunakaran, Chief Minister of Kerala in 1985.[citation needed] In 1996, he was again awarded for ‘outstanding contribution to Malayalam cinema’ by the Government of Kerala.[citation needed] Some of the other notable awards that he has received include:

Film fare Awards South

Death

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Joseph died on the 8th of January 2016 at his home in San Thomas, Chennai.[11]

References

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  1. ^ "Mollywood Producer Manjilas Joseph Biography, News, Photos, Videos". nettv4u. Retrieved 28 May 2023.
  2. ^ "List of Malayalam movies under the banner Manjilas". Malayalam Movie and Music Database.
  3. ^ The Times of India Directory and Year Book Including Who's who. 1971.
  4. ^ "M.O Joseph Biography". Veethi: The face of India.
  5. ^ Kumar, P.J. Ajith (10 January 2016). "He was no ordinary producer". The Hindu. Retrieved 28 October 2018.
  6. ^ Shivpprasadh, S. (11 July 2013). "TE Vasudevan: Cinema is his world". The Hindu.
  7. ^ "Legendary producer M O Joseph passes away". Times of India. 9 January 2016. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
  8. ^ "Manjilas Banner List of movies". Malayalam Music and Movie Encyclopedia.
  9. ^ "Collections". 1991.
  10. ^ "The Times of India Directory and Year Book Including Who's who". 1971.
  11. ^ "Film producer Manjilas Joseph passes away". Mathrubhumi.
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