The 1990s and 2000s are often referred to as the Golden Age of Malayalam cinema. This period saw the emergence of some of the most iconic filmmakers, such as Adoor Gopalakrishnan, A. K. Gopan, and I. V. Sasi. Films like "Swayamvaram" (1972), "Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu" (1984), and "Guru" (1997) are still widely acclaimed for their storytelling, direction, and performances.