Biography

Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval is a celebrated Indian film director and screenwriter known for his eccentric storytelling, sharp satire, and inventive cinematic style in Malayalam cinema.

Born and raised in Kerala, Ratheesh completed his formal education before stepping into the world of advertising and production design. He initially built a successful career in the creative side of the advertising industry, where his passion for visual storytelling and character detailing was sharpened. This experience laid a strong foundation for his future in cinema, where he would go on to create stories with striking visual and emotional impact.

His journey into filmmaking began behind the scenes, but it wasn't long before his distinctive voice took center stage. In 2019, Ratheesh made a remarkable directorial debut with Android Kunjappan Version 5.25, a heartwarming science fiction drama that gained both critical acclaim and box office success. The film stood out for its emotional depth, humor, and the unique treatment of a father-son relationship set against a backdrop of technology.

He followed it up with Kanakam Kaamini Kalaham (2021), a satirical take on marital chaos and egos, which further established his flair for blending humor with relatable human conflicts. In 2022, he directed Nna Thaan Case Kodu, a genre-bending courtroom comedy that became a surprise hit for its clever writing, witty political undertones, and bold narrative style.

In 2024, Ratheesh released Sureshanteyum Sumalathayudeyum Hrudhayahariyaya Pranayakatha, a film that diverged from his earlier works in tone but retained his signature storytelling-balancing charm, depth, and originality. The film further cemented his position as one of the most distinctive storytellers in Malayalam cinema.

Known for carving his own path and staying away from cinematic conventions, Ratheesh's works often combine hyperlocal settings with universal emotions. He draws inspiration from everyday life, crafting narratives filled with idiosyncratic characters, satire, and unexpected tenderness.

Today, Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval is considered one of the most exciting voices in new-age Malayalam cinema, a director who continues to challenge norms and captivate audiences with every project.

- IMDb mini biography by: Official Representative