About 2018 : Everyone is a Hero
2018 : Everyone is a Hero is a 2023 Indian Malayalam-language epic survival drama film about the catastrophic 2018 Kerala Floods that devastated Kerala. It is directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, who wrote the screenplay with Akhil P. Dharmajan, produced by Venu Kunnappilly under his production house Kavya Film Company.
The film comprises of popular Indian actors such as Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, Narain, Lal, Aparna Balamurali, and Tanvi Ram and an ensemble of supporting actors.
The movie released on 5 May 2023. It grossed over ₹2 billion (US$25 million) at the box office, to emerge as the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all-time and one of the highest grossing Indian film of 2023. On 27 September 2023, the film was chosen by the Film Federation of India as India’s Official Entry for the 96th Academy Awards.
The movie has already won numerous awards across the globe including the prestigious Septimius Award for Best Asian Actor won by one of the lead actor Tovino Thomas. Now, the movie soared to the highest level of recognition across the globe, by becoming the official nominee for the Oscar Awards 2023 from India in the category of Best International Feature Film. The announcement which marked the first step in making history in Indian Cinema, was made by renowned filmmaker Girish Kasaravalli, who is also the chairman of the Film Federation of India’s (FFI) selection committee. In his official address, Mr Girish Kasaravalli pointed out that the movie touches upon crucial sociopolitical and environmental matters such as the impact of climate change, and how people from all walks of life can come together in times of distress, irrespective of their religion, caste and political inclinations.
The film showcased hard-hitting memories of a devastating deluge that razed through Kerala, leaving chaos and destruction. Seeking refuge in the 1,500 relief camps, nearly 500 lives were lost in the flooding tragedy that left lakhs of residents homeless and caused property damage worth over 300 crores. The survival drama ‘2018: Everyone is a Hero‘ stunningly captures the horror that the people of Kerala endured due to the unprecedented rains, along with the bravery and camaraderie they displayed in the face of adversity.
Actor Tovino Thomas, Director Jude Anthany Joseph and Director of Photography Akhil George being the victims of the massive floods lost their houses and cars, while Tovino Thomas stood as a real hero by being active in the flood relief camps. Despite having 5 million victims in these floods, the people of Kerala joined hands and stayed united in overcoming this disaster and rebuilding the state at the quickest of times. Exhibiting great unity and humanity, the Keralites have been an inspiration for the whole nation. Having witnessed all these, Director Jude Anthany Joseph succeeded in recreating the Kerala floods, giving those wow moments to the audience and spreading the noble message to the world. The art department and production team played a key role in making this happen. ‘2018 Everyone Is A Hero’, made with stunning production values despite having a limited budget.
Plot
Anoop, a former military officer who withdrew from service due to the trauma of witnessing soldiers’ deaths in combat, is currently employed at a small store owned by the visually impaired Bhasi. Anoop’s affection is directed towards Manju, a teacher who recently joined the local government school. The two are contemplating marriage. Anoop aspires to travel to Dubai and enlists the help of his friend Rameshan to secure a visa. The story also follows the trajectory of Shaji, a government officer overseeing disaster management, who grapples with missing fishermen following a severe storm at sea.
Mathachan, a fisherman, and his family play a significant role, in rescuing lost fishermen and engaging in family conflicts. Nixon, Mathachan’s son, defies his family’s fishing heritage and pursues a modeling career, leading to complications in his romantic relationship with Jiji, the daughter of a businessman named Chandy. However, Nixon retured to help his family when the floods hit, overcoming his differences with his father. Anoop’s plans for his impending wedding are disrupted by the onset of heavy rainfall and floods.
The floods devastate the region, causing widespread chaos. Various characters, including Shaji, and Anoop, become involved in rescue efforts. Mathachan and his son Winston employ their boats to aid stranded villagers, while Anoop constructs a makeshift boat to contribute to the relief efforts. Tragedy strikes when Mathachan loses his life during a rescue operation.
Koshy, a taxi driver assigned to show a Polish couple around the city, finds himself trapped by the floods. He and the Polish couple seek refuge in Anoop’s house.
Anoop’s heroic acts extend to aiding Air Force officers in saving a pregnant woman and attempting to rescue a distressed family. He also saves the blind shopkeeper Bhasi, who was stuck at his house. Anoop calls out to Bhasi and manages to save him. Unfortunately, Anoop’s own life is claimed by the floodwaters while saving others, leaving a legacy of selflessness. As the floodwaters recede, the community honors Anoop’s sacrifices by erecting a monument in his memory. The narrative concludes with a poignant scene involving Bhasi, the blind shopkeeper, the pregnant woman, and her daughter, highlighting the enduring impact of Anoop’s actions.
