Lal (actor)

M. Lal, often credited simply as Lal, is an Indian actor, screenwriter, film director, producer and distributor who primarily works in Malayalam cinema. He has also appeared in Tamil and Telugu films.

Lal began his career in Malayalam cinema as a mimicry artist and stage performer. He gained prominence as a screenwriter and director alongside Siddique under the name Siddique-Lal, creating several commercially successful and critically acclaimed comedy films in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Notable films from this period include Ramji Rao Speaking, In Harihar Nagar, Godfather, and Vietnam Colony.

Following the split of the Siddique-Lal duo, Lal continued his career as a director, screenwriter, and later as an actor. He has acted in a wide range of roles, from comedic to serious, establishing himself as a versatile character actor. Some of his notable acting performances include roles in films such as Thenmavin Kombath, Oru Naal Varum, Zachariayude Garbhinikal, Ezra, Driving Licence, and Tsunami.

Lal has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Malayalam cinema, recognizing his work both behind and in front of the camera. He continues to be an active and influential figure in the South Indian film industry.