'Climax Got Reshot And Censored': Screenwriter SN Swamy On Mohanlal’s Moonnam Mura

Sivaram Narayan Swamy, commonly known as SN Swamy, is hailed as one of Malayalam cinema’s most-talented screenwriters. In his illustrious career, the 1988 film Moonnam Mura stands out as one of the highest-grossing and critically acclaimed ventures, despite facing significant challenges from the certification commission.

During a recent interview on the YouTube entertainment channel, Saina South Plus, SN Swamy shared a pivotal incident related to the climax of Moonnam Mura. The veteran screenwriter disclosed that the climax presented in the final cut of the movie was an alternative version, replacing an earlier version that had faced disapproval from the certification board.

Moonnam Mura, directed by K Madhu, marked the third collaboration between SN Swamy and the filmmaker. The film boasted an ensemble cast, including Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Lalu Alex, Revathi and Mukesh, in key roles.

Swamy revealed that the initial climax, where everyone is saved and the news appears in the newspaper without mentioning the protagonist’s name, had faced objections from the certification board. The committee insisted that the police should not be portrayed negatively. With limited time and unable to approach the revising committee, the makers had to reshoot an alternative climax to secure certification.

In the revised climax, the police receive accolades, a departure from the original version. SN Swamy recounted an interesting anecdote during the interview, mentioning that Mohanlal’s mother, who attended the preview before the censoring process, vehemently opposed any attempts to change the climax. She asserted that she would never have allowed alterations that portrayed the police negatively.

Moonnam Mura narrated the story of a group of high-ranking political officials whose bus is hijacked by terrorists during a trip. The terrorists demand the release of their imprisoned colleagues, leading to a tense negotiation. The plot takes a significant turn when ex-cop Ali Imran, played by Mohanlal, becomes involved in the negotiation.

This revelation by SN Swamy provides a fascinating insight into the challenges and creative decisions involved in the filmmaking process, particularly when dealing with censorship issues.