While veteran cinematographer Shaji Kumar is no longer with us, his remarkable visual legacy lives on through the unforgettable moments he captured on screen. Many of his celebrated cinematic moments featured Mohanlal. Whenever Shaji Kumar captured the legendary actor on screen, fans celebrated those moments with immense love and enthusiasm. Some scenes even went on to develop a fan base of their own, including Mohanlal’s iconic jump in Thudarum.
Directed by Tharun Moorthy, Thudarum (To Be Continued) tells the story of a former stuntman who now leads a quiet life as a taxi driver with his family. However, unexpected events turn his peaceful life upside down. Portraying a character with immense emotional depth, Shaji Kumar beautifully captures every moment, mannerism, and subtle emotional shift on Mohanlal’s face. His cinematography adds further depth to the character, making each scene more impactful and memorable.
Not every memorable moment is an emotional one. Shaji Kumar also knows how to elevate a heroic sequence by capturing it from the perfect angle. The fight sequence at the police station and Mohanlal’s iconic jump are prime examples. The cinematographer brilliantly captured the mass moments, leaving the audience with goosebumps.
Even years after its release, the song ‘Velmuruga’ continues to trend among the younger generation. Festivals and celebrations in Kerala often feel incomplete without this song. Its appeal lies not only in MG Sreekumar’s mesmerising voice and Mohanlal’s energetic dance moves but also in the stunning visuals that beautifully capture the landscapes of Kerala.
The entire film is a visual treat. Shaji Kumar beautifully captures the beauty of nature, the innocence of village life, and the heroism of Mohanlal. The climax, in particular, deserves special appreciation. Gripping, thrilling, and deeply emotional, the sequence showcases his ability to bring out the intensity of a scene through his cinematography. Once again, Shaji Kumar proves why he remains one of the most remarkable cinematographers in the industry.
The Shaji Kumar–Mohanlal collaboration would be incomplete without mentioning Pulimurugan, the first Malayalam film to cross the ₹100-crore mark at the box office. Set against the backdrop of a tribal village and directed by hitmaker Vysakh, the action thriller is best known for its spectacular fight sequences. Mohanlal’s action scenes, particularly his encounters with the tiger and the goons, were among the most appreciated moments in the film. Shaji Kumar’s cinematography played a significant role in capturing the intensity and scale of these sequences, making them a visual treat for the audience.
Directed by VA Shrikumar, Odiyan is supernatural fantasy drama starring Mohanlal, Manju Warrier, and Prakash Raj in the lead roles. Even the film wasn't a commercial hit in the theatre, the action sequences and cinematography of the movie received wide appreciation from the audiences.
In Odiyan, cinematographer Shaji Kumar beautifully captured Mohanlal in some memorable frames, adding visual magic to the film’s narrative. Following the legendary cinematographer’s demise, these iconic moments have been revisited by fans, celebrating his remarkable visual craft and the magic he created on screen.