Watch Lal Salam

Lal Salam is a 1990 Malayalam-language political drama film starring Mohanlal, Kollam Ajith, and Lalu Alex. Directed by Venu Nagavalli and written by M. T. Vasudevan Nair, the film tells the story of the rise of a communist leader named Venu (Mohanlal) and his struggles to gain support from the working class and establish a fair and just society.

The movie is set against the backdrop of the political turmoil in Kerala during the 1970s and 1980s, when communism was at its peak and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) was waging a battle against the ruling Congress government. The film portrays the impact of communist ideology on the people of Kerala and the sacrifices made by party members in their struggle for social justice.

The story begins with Venu, a young and idealistic man who joins the communist movement and rises through the ranks to become a leader. He is supported by a group of loyal comrades, including Kunjan (Kollam Ajith) and Dasan (Lalu Alex), who share his vision for a better society. Venu is a charismatic and persuasive speaker who wins the hearts and minds of the people with his impassioned speeches and unwavering commitment to the cause.

However, Venu's journey towards revolution is not an easy one. He faces opposition from the ruling party and the police force, who see him as a threat to their authority. The film depicts the violence and brutality that characterizes the political landscape of Kerala during this period, with scenes of police brutality, riots, and mass protests.

As Venu's popularity grows, he becomes a target for the ruling party, who try to assassinate him. However, he survives and goes into hiding, continuing to lead the revolution from the shadows. With the help of his faithful comrades, Venu leads a mass rally in the capital city of Trivandrum, which is met with brutal force by the police. The climax of the film sees Venu and his comrades facing a brutal crackdown by the state police, which leads to the death of many innocent people.

Throughout the film, Lal Salam explores the themes of political oppression, class struggle, and the importance of unity in the face of adversity. It portrays the sacrifices made by communist leaders and their followers in their struggle for equality, freedom, and justice.

Mohanlal's performance as Venu is outstanding, capturing the character's intensity and passion for the cause. Kollam Ajith and Lalu Alex also deliver strong performances as Venu's comrades-in-arms. The film's direction by Venu Nagavalli is excellent, capturing the political and social milieu of Kerala during the 1970s and 1980s with authenticity and realism.

In conclusion, Lal Salam is a powerful and moving film that portrays the struggle of the communist movement in Kerala during the 1970s and 1980s. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Indian politics and history, and for those who wish to learn about the sacrifices made by the communist leaders and their followers in their quest for social justice.