Jimshi Khalid
Jimshi Khalid might not be a household name outside Kerala yet, but if you’re even a bit into Malayalam cinema, you’ve probably caught his work without even realizing it. Born and raised in Kerala (as most legends from Mollywood seem to be), Jimshi’s got his fingerprints on some of the coolest films to come out in the last few years. Thallumaala (2022) is the wild ride everyone keeps talking about—a movie that basically threw the rulebook out the window and slapped us with a blend of chaos, color, and pure unfiltered energy. And guess what? Jimshi’s visuals are a big part of what makes it tick. His camera doesn’t just follow the story, it practically dances with the characters—sometimes literally.
Then there’s Thundu (2024), which kind of flips the tone. Here, Jimshi dials it back, going for subtlety over spectacle. The way he captures the little moments—awkward silences, nervous glances, that kind of stuff—makes the whole thing feel super real. You get drawn in without even noticing. Alappuzha Gymkhana (2025) is his next biggie, and, honestly, people are hyped. Word is, it’ll be another visual treat, maybe with even more experimental shots. Jimshi’s not just another cinematographer ticking boxes; he’s out here playing with light and shadow like they’re his personal playground. If you’re the type who actually notices cinematography instead of just the story, you’ll spot his signature moves a mile away. The guy’s style is fresh, playful, and sometimes a little bit in-your-face—and honestly, Malayalam cinema’s better for it.