More than four decades after its release, My Dear Kuttichathan continues to be remembered as one of the most technically ambitious films in Indian cinema. Released in 1984, Jijo Punnoose’s Malayalam film became the first Indian movie filmed in 3D.
The film recently returned to the spotlight after actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran named it when asked which Malayalam movie he would want every Indian to watch.
Speaking at the 16th edition of Expresso, Prithviraj described himself as a fan of cinema nostalgia and highlighted the film’s pioneering achievement. He also noted that many people may not realise that Malayalam cinema produced India’s first 3D film.
Directed by Jijo Punnoose and produced by Navodaya Studio, My Dear Kuttichathan was designed as a fantasy adventure aimed largely at younger audiences. Its cast included Master Arvind, Master Mukesh, Master Suresh and Kumari Sonia.
The production reportedly cost around Rs 40 lakh at the time, a significant investment for a children's fantasy film. Its technical ambition extended beyond stereoscopic photography, with specially designed production techniques and rotating sets used to create an immersive 3D experience.
The film went on to become a landmark in Indian cinema history and demonstrated that ambitious visual experimentation was possible within the country's regional film industries.
Prithviraj’s recent recommendation has once again drawn attention to the film’s technological innovation and its place in the history of Malayalam cinema.
