The first Malayalam film, "Balan," was released in 1938, marking the beginning of a new era in Kerala's cinematic history. The film, directed by S. Nottanandan, was a mythological drama that showcased the region's rich cultural heritage. In the early years, Malayalam cinema was heavily influenced by Indian mythology, folklore, and literature. The films were often adaptations of classic works like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which resonated with the audience.