Introduction
M. P. Michael (born 2 December 1958), better known by his stage name Lal, is an Indian actor, screenwriter, film director, producer, and distributor, who predominantly works in Malayalam cinema and has also appeared in Tamil and Telugu films. Lal has won one National Film Award – Special Mention for acting (in 2012), two Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor (in 2008 and 2013) and a Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Malayalam (in 2008).
Early life
Lal was born as Michael to late M. A. Paul and late Philomina, as their eldest son. He is a devout member of the Roman Catholic Latin RiteArchdiocese of Verapoly, Ernakulam. His father M. A. Paul was a famous tabla player. His brother Alex Paul is a famous music composer in the Malayalam film industry and his son Jean is a movie director in the same industry.
Career
He started his career as a mimicry artist in Kalabhavan, along with his childhood friend Siddique, who would later team up as Siddique-Lal to make many films. Lal and Siddique began their film career working as assistant directors to Fazil in Nokkethadhoorathu Kannum Nattu.
After that, both decided to part ways as a director pair and Lal turned producer with the Siddique-directed Mammootty-starrer Hitler. Lal debuted in acting with a villain role as Paniyan in Suresh Gopi-starrer Kaliyattam, directed by Jayaraj. Kaliyattam was a new take on Othello, where Lal played Paniyan, the character standing for Iago. He runs a film post-production company named as Lal Media Arts, Kochi. For his performance in the 2012 film Ozhimuri, he won the National Film Award – Special Mention.
Personal life
Lal is married to Nancy and they have two children—Jean Paul Lal and Monica Lal. Jean Paul is a film director.
Awards
- National Film Awards
- 2012: Special Mention for Acting – Ozhimuri
- Kerala State Film Awards
- 1991: Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value - Godfather
- 2008: Best Actor – Thalappavu
- 2013: Best Actor – Ayaal, Zachariayude Garbhinikal
- Filmfare Awards South
- 2008: Best Actor – Malayalam - Thalappavu
- Asianet Film Awards
- 2010: Best Director – In Ghost House Inn