‘Manorathangal’ review: MT Vasudevan Nair is the star of a show based on his stories

After appearing as a child actor in Tamil films in the 1960s, Kamal Haasan’s first leading role was in the Malayalam-language Kanyakumari in 1974. Kanyakumari was written by MT Vasudevan Nair, the author and filmmaker who is revered in Kerala and beyond.

It’s fitting, then, that Haasan should introduce Manorathangal (Mindscapes), an anthology series based on Nair’s works. Previously intended for Netflix, Manorathangal has instead been scooped by ZEE5. The nine-episode series, an unusual addition to ZEE5’s typical programming, is available in Malayalam with subtitles as well as a Hindu dub.

Several prominent filmmakers and actors have worked in the short story adaptations, from Mammootty to Mohanlal, Fahadh Faasil to Asif Ali, Nadiya Moidu to Parvathy Thiruvothu. Many of the actors have previously appeared in films written by Nair.

However, the star performer is the litterateur, whose ideas provide a steadying force to the uneven quality of adaptation on display. Nair has written all the episodes, ensuring that his distinctive voice – curious, humanistic, poetic – resounds across the series.

Each chapter begins with Kamal Haasan in a library surrounded by Nair’s writings, delivering commentary at times, context at others, and effusiveness always. It’s a pity that Haasan didn’t direct or act in of the stories.

Priyadarshan is Manorathangal’s showrunner, while also helming two episodes. Priyadarshan has...

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