Chennai: Director Samjad PS’s upcoming Malayalam film Half has made history by becoming the first Malayalam film to be screened in the prestigious Midnight Madness section of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
The film’s screening received an enthusiastic response from the international audience, with viewers applauding several moments during the packed screening and continuing the engagement during the post-screening question-and-answer session.
Strong response at TIFF screening
Produced by Anne Sajeev and P K Sajeev under the banner of Fragrant Nature Film Creations, Half was presented to TIFF audiences as an intense and immersive cinematic experience.
The film’s distinctive visual treatment and raw presentation drew attention from viewers, while its performances, action sequences, music and sound design became key topics during the interaction that followed the screening.
Director Samjad PS, producers Anne Sajeev and P K Sajeev, lead actors Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj, music composer Mithun Mukundan and sound designer Vishnu Govind participated in the post-screening Q&A.
The team discussed the film’s central theme, filmmaking process, visual language, music, sound design and performances.
Performances and action sequences draw attention
Ranjith Sajeev and Aiswarya Raj’s performances were among the subjects discussed during the session. Audience members asked the actors about their respective characters and their approach to the roles.
The film’s action sequences also emerged as a major talking point. Fight choreography by Very Tri Yulisman received particular attention from viewers.
Music by Mithun Mukundan and sound design by Vishnu Govind were also appreciated for their contribution to the film’s tense and immersive atmosphere.
Strong technical team behind ‘Half’
Half features a prominent technical crew. Cinematographer Pappinu has handled the camera work, while Mahesh Bhuvanend is responsible for the editing.
Vishnu Govind has handled the sound design, adding to the film’s atmospheric treatment.
The TIFF screening marks an important milestone in the film’s international journey, placing a Malayalam production in one of the festival’s well-known sections dedicated to genre cinema and midnight screenings.
Global release partnerships
The film’s international reach has also been strengthened through partnerships with companies involved in its distribution and sales.
Excel Entertainment and AA Films are presenting and distributing Half across North India, while international sales rights have been acquired by Best Friend Forever (BFF).
With its selection at TIFF and the response to its Midnight Madness screening, Half has drawn international attention ahead of its wider release.