The cinematic retelling of Kerala’s tragic floods in 2018 has taken the global film community by storm. Aptly titled 2018, alternatively known as 2018: Everyone is a Hero, the film is a testament to Malayalam cinema’s ability to tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. Crafted under the masterful direction of Jude Anthany Joseph with Akhil P. Dharmajan wielding the pen, the movie boasts stellar performances from powerhouses like Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, and Vineeth Sreenivasan.
Beginning its journey from a mere idea in October 2018, 2018 saw the first light of camera action in May 2022. Filmed across pristine Kerala locations and the urban locales of Tirunelveli and Hyderabad, the crew wrapped up by November 2022. Its May 2023 release left an indelible mark, collecting a staggering ₹2 billion and etching its name as Malayalam cinema’s top earner and one of 2023’s high-grossing Indian films.
????????????????❤️ #2018Movie – India’s Official entry to Oscars! pic.twitter.com/WTnBfWRhPv
— Tovino Thomas (@ttovino) September 27, 2023
Yet, the pinnacle of its success was its nomination as India’s contender for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 96th Academy Awards. Chosen by a committee spearheaded by the iconic Girish Kasaravalli, 2018 stood tall among 22 brilliant Indian films. The movie’s portrayal of the 2018 floods and underlying messages on climate change and societal progress won it unanimous appreciation.
With eyes now set on the international accolade, the world eagerly awaits to be captivated by the soulful narrative of 2018 and the tale of Kerala’s spirit and resilience.
