In the 1970s and 1980s, Malayalam cinema was characterized by the rise of Masala videos. These low-budget films, often with simplistic storylines, were designed to appeal to a broad audience. Typically featuring a mix of action, comedy, romance, and drama, Masala videos were criticized for their lack of artistic merit and emphasis on commercial success. Despite this, some notable directors, such as P. K. Joseph and A. B. Raj, managed to create engaging films within this format. Movies like "Apoorva Raagangal" (1977) and "Sakkalakali" (1979) showcased the potential of Masala videos to balance entertainment with social commentary.