The first Malayalam film, "Balan," was released in 1938, marking the beginning of a new era in Kerala's entertainment industry. The early days of Malayalam cinema were influenced by the social and cultural movements of the time, with films often focusing on social issues, mythology, and folklore. The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of notable filmmakers like G.R. Rao and P.A. Thomas, who made significant contributions to the growth of the industry.