Now, Learn Driving Lessons From Mohanlal
KOCHI: Moviegoers will soon be able to learn a few tips on ‘safe driving’ from none other than Mohanlal. Similar to the ‘no smoking’ advertisements shown in theatres before the actual movie begins, ten different short-films on ‘road safety,’ produced by the Home Department, will be shown in cinema halls across the State.
The government took up the initiative after the short films which were launched on social media last month, under the multi-faceted ‘Subhayatra’ programme, failed to attract audience. The theatre campaign is expected to help the campaign meet its desired goal, by creating awareness among the public on traffic rules.
“In phase-I, the short films of around two minutes duration each will be shown in around 100 theatres, including multiplexes. Soon, the screening will be extended to all theatres in the State. We hope to start screening of the films next week,” said Tony Chittettukalam, director of the short films. In addition to Mohanlal, who has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the campaign by the government, many budding artists have acted in the films, including ‘Jamnapyari’-fame Gayathri Suresh and Anwar who acted in ‘Salala Mobiles.’ Mobile phone use while driving, seatbelt, zebra crossing, helmet, over-speeding, lane traffic and drunken driving are the themes of the short films.
“Interestingly, the director has rarely used the traditional shots involving busy roads. We have added value to the quality of the films by using popular actors in them. It will definitely be an eye-opener for the public,” said Thiruvananthapuram Range Inspector General of Police Manoj Abraham, who is heading the Traffic Department.
The Department also plans to screen the short films at public spaces like railway station, bus stand and educational institutions.