Legendary actor Mohanlal’s journey to stardom almost didn’t happen, as director Sibi Malayil, who later helmed his award-winning films, initially gave him a surprisingly low score at his very first audition.
An Unlikely Start to a Legendary Career
Mohanlal is now celebrated as one of India’s finest actors, but his debut in cinema hung by a thread. During his audition for ‘Manjil Virinja Pookkal’, one panelist, Sibi Malayil, then an associate director, shockingly scored him just two out of 100.
Had another panel member given him similar low marks, his path might have been entirely different. Fortunately, the film’s director Fazil and Jijo Punnoose of Navodaya Studios saw his potential, giving him high scores and securing his role as the antagonist in the blockbuster film.
The Infamous Audition Score
Decades later, both Mohanlal and Sibi Malayil fondly recalled this pivotal moment. During an event celebrating Sibi’s 40th anniversary in direction, Mohanlal revealed the irony.
“During my very first audition, Sibi was part of the panel,” Mohanlal recounted. “Later, I came to know that he was the one who gave me the lowest marks, just two out of 100. But that number two later became a turning point.”
A Partnership Forged in Talent
Despite that initial assessment, Sibi Malayil went on to become a celebrated director, crafting numerous memorable films, many of them starring Mohanlal. Their collaboration proved to be highly successful, bringing some of Malayalam cinema’s most iconic works to life.
Mohanlal himself confirmed the incredible twist of fate: “I went on to win two National Awards through his films,” highlighting the profound impact Sibi had on his career.
Award-Winning Collaborations
Sibi Malayil’s direction was instrumental in Mohanlal’s national recognition. Mohanlal first received a National Film Award – Special Mention for his role in Sibi’s 1989 film, ‘Kireedam’.
Later, he secured his first National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in ‘Bharatham’ (1991), another critically acclaimed film directed by Sibi. Their films also played a significant role in reviving Malayalam film music, with hits like ‘His Highness Abdullah’ and ‘Kamaladalam’.
Beyond Expectations: Trusting the Vision
Mohanlal shared an anecdote about ‘Kamaladalam’, where he played a dance teacher. He expressed initial doubts, questioning how he could portray such a role convincingly. Sibi, however, had unwavering faith in him.
Even when Mohanlal mentioned conflicting schedules and a long beard from another film, Sibi simply told him to keep the beard, confident it would suit the character. This highlights the trust and collaborative spirit that grew between them, allowing Mohanlal to push his boundaries.
Sibi Malayil’s Enduring Pride
Reflecting on their journey, Sibi Malayil admitted his initial misjudgment. “Before Lal even started acting in films, I was the one who tried to push him out,” he said. “I gave him two marks, thinking, ‘he doesn’t belong here’. I was trying to let him go politely.”
He expressed immense joy at having contributed to the career of such an extraordinary talent. Sibi celebrated Mohanlal’s enduring legacy, recognizing him as a towering figure in not just Malayalam cinema, but across Indian and world cinema for over 45 years.
- Mohanlal scored just 2 out of 100 in his first film audition from future frequent collaborator, Sibi Malayil.
- Despite the low score, Mohanlal landed the role thanks to other panelists’ high marks.
- Mohanlal won his first National Film Award for Best Actor through Sibi Malayil’s film ‘Bharatham’.
- Their partnership also helped revive film music in Malayalam cinema.
This enduring partnership exemplifies how initial perceptions can pave the way for a remarkable and successful creative journey.
