'Amma Ariyan', a cult Malayalam film directed by John Abraham, received a triumphant screening at the Cannes Film Festival, where it was presented in a restored 4K version. This screening, part of the Cannes Classics section, was particularly emotional as the film had never been commercially released since its creation in 1986. The event attracted a full house, culminating in a standing ovation, nearly four decades after its original production. The restoration was supported by the Film Heritage Foundation, which has been dedicated to showcasing restored films at Cannes for five years. The film, set against the politically charged backdrop of 1970s Kerala, follows Purushan, a man on a journey to inform a mother of her son's death, intertwining personal and political narratives. The Odessa Collective, co-founded by Abraham, produced 'Amma Ariyan' with a focus on alternative filmmaking and grassroots funding through street performances and community engagement. The screening was introduced by Cannes director Thierry Fremaux, with notable attendees including actor Joy Mathew and editor Bina Paul, who reflected on the film's legacy and the impact of Abraham's work.