Malayalam filmmaker Fazil Razak has earned international recognition after his sophomore feature Moham (Desire) won the prestigious Best Film honour at the 48th Moscow International Film Festival, held from April 16 to 23, becoming the first Malayalam film to achieve the feat. The psychological drama was screened in the festival’s Main Competition section. Its lead actor Amrutha Krishnakumar also received the Best Actress award for her portrayal of Amala.
The official synopsis of Moham reads, "In a bid to escape the grip of law and punishment, Shanu, a man with secret schemes, ensnares Amala, a woman grappling with psychological struggles. Together on a stolen bike, they embark on a journey where some desires are abandoned, while others reach completion."
The film marks Razak’s follow-up to his acclaimed debut feature Thadavu, which won major honours at the 28th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK)Mohan, including Rajatha Chakoram awards for Best Film and Best Director.
Amrutha co-wrote Moham with Fazil, alongside Ishak Musafir and the film's cinematographer Mridul S Vinayak. The cast also includes Beena R Chandran, Gauthami Gopan, Vineeth Vasudevan, Jeo Baby and Jibin Gopinath, among others.