Lijo Jose Pellissery
Biography
Lijo Jose Pellissery is an Indian filmmaker and actor who works predominantly in Malayalam cinema. Born on 18 September 1978 in Chalakudy, Kerala, he is the son of veteran actor Jose Pellissery. He entered filmmaking after working as an assistant to advertising filmmaker Manoj Pillai and making short films.
Pellissery made his feature-film directorial debut with Nayakan (2010), followed by City of God (2011) and Amen (2013). He later directed the experimental Double Barrel (2015) and gained widespread recognition with Angamaly Diaries (2017). His other acclaimed films include _Ee. Ma.Yau. (2018), Jallikattu (2019), Churuli (2021), Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam (2022) and Malaikottai Vaaliban (2024).
Known for unconventional storytelling, long takes, nonlinear narratives and distinctive visual styles, Pellissery has developed a reputation as one of the most innovative filmmakers in contemporary Malayalam cinema. His films frequently explore human behaviour, community life, violence and social relationships through unconventional narrative techniques.
He has received major recognition for his work, including Kerala State Film Awards for Best Director and Silver Peacock Awards for Best Director at the International Film Festival of India for Ee.Ma.Yau. and Jallikattu.
Filmography as Director
- Nayakan — 2010
- City of God — 2011
- Amen — 2013
- Double Barrel — 2015
- Angamaly Diaries — 2017
- Ee.Ma.Yau. — 2018
- Jallikattu — 2019
- Churuli — 2021
- Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam — 2022
- Malaikottai Vaaliban — 2024
