2018(promoted as 2018: Everyone is a Hero) is a captivating Malayalam-language survival thriller film directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Akhil P. Dharmajan. The movie features an ensemble cast including Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Narain, Asif Ali, Vineeth Sreenivasan, and Lal. Based on the events during the 2018 Kerala floods, the film takes viewers on a gripping journey of courage and resilience.
Originally slated for release on April 21, 2023, the film was later postponed to May 5, 2023.
"2018: Everyone is a Hero" proved to be a box office sensation, grossing 100 crores within 11 days of its release. It also achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first Malayalam film to surpass 200 crores at the box office. With this accomplishment, it currently stands as the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time and the eighth-highest grossing Indian film in 2023.
Plot:
The film follows the lives of various individuals during the catastrophic 2018 Kerala floods. Noora, a TV reporter, is covering the issue of water scarcity in Pondicherry when her car is hit by a truck driven by Sethupathi, who is transporting explosives to Kerala.
Anoop, a former military man, works as an assistant in a shop owned by Bhasi, a blind man. Anoop falls in love with Manju, a teacher who recently moved to the area. Two fishermen, Mathachan and his son Winston, rescue three stranded fishermen during a thunderstorm.
Rameshan, an IT specialist in Abu Dhabi, returns to Kerala to be with his ailing wife and hospitalized mother. Meanwhile, the Home Secretary, Shaji Punnoose, broadcasts warnings about the impending flood. He invites Anoop and Manju to his housewarming party.
Nixon, Mathachan's younger son, dreams of becoming a model but faces opposition from his parents. He is also in love with Chandy's daughter, whose father disapproves of her involvement in the flood relief camp. Koshy, a taxi driver, takes tourists to Kuttanadu to witness the boat race, but it gets canceled. The tourists seek refuge in Anoop's house, suspecting Koshy of cheating them.
As the floods intensify, the lives of these individuals intertwine in remarkable ways. Acts of heroism and selflessness emerge amidst the chaos. They face immense challenges, including dangerous rescue missions, emotional turmoil, and heartbreaking losses. Through their bravery, they showcase the true spirit of heroism and unity in the face of adversity.
About:
- Genre: Thriller, Action, Drama
- Director: Jude Anthany Joseph
- Writers: Akhil P. DharmajanJude, Anthany Joseph
- Cast: Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali
- Release date: May 5, 2023
Production:
The film was officially announced in September 2018 under the initial title "2403 Ft.: The Story Of Unexpected Heroes," which was later changed to "2018: Everyone is a Hero." Principal photography commenced on May 27, 2022, with filming taking place in various locations across Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Idukki, and Kollam districts. Additional shooting occurred in Tirunelveli and Hyderabad. A 15-acre film set in Vaikom played a significant role in the production. The flood sequences were captured using practical effects, adding to the film's authenticity.
"2018: Everyone is a Hero" beautifully portrays the resilience and courage displayed by ordinary people during a time of crisis, serving as an inspirational tribute to the heroes who emerged during the devastating 2018 Kerala floods.