White Nights

Velutha Rathrikal (White Nights) is an independent cinematic adaptation of the eponymous novel by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Manu is an artist in search of a new sky, from his troubled past, in a forest settlement. He meets Chelly, a tribal girl from a nearby settlement who bears the burnt from her own share of life. As she awaits the return of her beloved friend Jyothi, Manu gets closer to her. Despite their diverse upbringings, Manu and Chelly strike a serene and beautiful chord with each other. Their brief but intense encounter during the five nights makes the plot of the film set against the deep woods of Attappadi and surroundings.

Directed by Razi Muhammed, White Nights leans on a strong ensemble — Disney James, Smitha Ambu, Saritha Cukku — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2016.