Last updated: 8 May 2026


Malayalam · Drama
1h 50m · 30 Aug 2013
DOP: Shamdat Sainudeen | Writer: Shyamaprasad
Ratings
Our Rating
3
Artist is a Malayalam drama that explores the life of a passionate painter and the complexities of his relationships. The narrative delves into the struggles of artistic expression, personal sacrifices, and emotional turmoil, set against the backdrop of contemporary Kerala. The story unfolds as the protagonist grapples with his inner demons and the expectations of society, leading to a poignant climax that questions the price of creativity.
Artist is a visually rich and emotionally intense film that offers a deep dive into the psyche of an artist. The content is mature and reflective, focusing on themes of love, loss, and artistic passion. The screenplay is tightly woven, balancing introspective moments with dramatic tension. The pacing is deliberate, with the first half setting up the emotional stakes and character motivations effectively, while the second half intensifies the conflicts and delivers a powerful resolution.
The film's music and background score complement the narrative subtly, enhancing the mood without overpowering the scenes. Although there are no traditional songs, the background score by Shamdat Sainudeen's cinematography adds a lyrical quality to the visual storytelling, making the viewing experience immersive. The film's technical finesse, especially in framing and lighting, supports the narrative's contemplative tone.
Overall, Artist stands out for its artistic ambition and strong performances, though its slow pace and heavy themes may not appeal to all viewers. It is a film that demands patience and attention, rewarding the audience with a thoughtful exploration of creativity and human emotion.
Fahadh Faasil: Nuanced and compelling portrayal of a conflicted painter, delivering emotional depth and subtlety.
Ann Augustine: Graceful and heartfelt, providing a strong emotional anchor to the story.
Sidhartha Siva: Supportive role with credible and restrained acting.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Shyamaprasad's direction is meticulous and sensitive, focusing on character-driven storytelling with an emphasis on visual poetry. His writing captures the nuances of artistic struggle and emotional complexity, delivering a film that is both intimate and profound.
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Our Rating
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| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 60% |
| Neutral | 30% |
| Negative | 10% |
Critics praised Artist for its artistic ambition, strong performances, and visual storytelling. The film was noted for its mature themes and emotional depth, though some reviews pointed out its slow pacing and niche appeal. Overall, it was appreciated as a serious cinematic work that stands out in Malayalam cinema.
Final Box-Office Result
Artist released on 30 August 2013 (2013).
Artist is declared a ABOVE AVERAGE at the box office.
Artist OTT release date not announced yet.
Artist directed by Shyamaprasad.
Artist stars Fahadh Faasil, Ann Augustine, Sidhartha Siva, Sreeram Ramachandran, Krishnachandran.
Tollybo rates Artist 3/5. Verdict: ABOVE AVERAGE.
Artist — Genre: Drama, Runtime: 110 minutes, Language: Malayalam.