Long before the first film was projected, Kerala's visual culture was shaped by traditional art forms like Tholpavakkuthu (shadow puppetry) and classical dances such as Kathakali and Koodiyattom . These forms introduced early audiences to complex narrative structures and visual storytelling techniques like close-ups and dramatic imagery.

Conversely, cinema influences culture:

The 1980s and 1990s witnessed a significant shift in Malayalam cinema, with the emergence of a new wave of filmmakers who experimented with innovative themes, narratives, and styles. Directors like A. K. Gopan, K. S. Sethumadhavan, and I. V. Sasi introduced a fresh perspective to Malayalam cinema, exploring complex social issues, human relationships, and existential crises. Films like Udyanapalakan (1981), Nishiddha (1982), and Amukam (1986) exemplified this new wave, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and cinematic expression.