Brisbane: Ghost Paradise-a film that touched audiences with both humour and emotion-has become a sensation in Queensland theatres and is now expanding to additional screens. Even before its release, Ghost Paradise had attracted attention for two reasons: it is the first Malayalam movie to be produced and screened in Queensland, and it features 26 newcomers trained and introduced through the film.
The first screening was held at Event Cinemas in Garden City, Brisbane, to a packed audience. Despite bad weather, Malayalis from Brisbane and other cities across Queensland came to watch the film. The presence of numerous newcomers on screen was met with warm applause and appreciative whistles from the audience. Although all 26 actors were debutantes, viewers praised each of their performances as noteworthy. Director and producer Joy K. Mathew attended the premiere along with his family.
A well-known presence in the Australian film industry, Joy K. Mathew, has written the story and screenplay for the film-and also plays the lead role.The 26 newcomers in the movie were all trained under him. Malayalis from various Australian cities with a passion for cinema and the arts were selected and trained for this project.
The storyline revolves around how the peaceful life of a family is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of a stranger, the family’s attempts to get rid of him, and the complexities that follow. With humorous, unique life experiences and touching moments, Ghost Paradise offers audiences an emotionally rich cinematic experience.
As a heartwarming film, Ghost Paradise has won the hearts of Malayalis in Queensland right from the first screening. On December 2, the film received another full-house screening in Gold Coast. The film will be released in more theatres in the coming days, said producer Joy K. Mathew. The film has been released under Joy K. Mathew’s Global Malayalam Cinema banner, in collaboration with the Australian Malayalam Film Industry. Filmed across Kerala and Queensland, the movie features-alongside Joy K. Mathew-popular Malayalam actors Kailash, Shivaji Guruvayoor, Sohan Seenulal, Saju Kodiyan, Molly Kannamaly, Leelakrishnan, Ambika Mohan, Pauly Valsan, Kulappulli Leela, as well as Australian actors Tasso and Alena.
At the premiere event held at Event Cinemas, several dignitaries delivered speeches, including Hollywood film director Alan; actress Alena; Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy, founding member of Queensland’s first Malayali association and Vicar of St. Stephen’s Catholic Church; Fr. Abraham Nadukunnel, Vicar of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Brisbane; Preethi Suraj, President of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland; Fr. Robin Daniel, Assistant Vicar of St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, Brisbane; Reji Chacko, Vice President of Brisbane Malayalee Association; Sreejith Pillai, President of Samskrithi Brisbane; actor and President of Gold Coast Malayalee Association Saju C.P.; Neethu Bijo, President of Malayalee Association of Queensland; Anoop Varghese, Secretary of Sunshine Coast Malayalee Association; Jijo Kumbickal George, Secretary of Kairali Brisbane; Dileep Pattayath, Representative of Navarasa Sunshine Coast; Prajil Thomas, President of Sunshine Coast Kerala Association; Adv. Shamon, representative of the 26 newcomers and actor; Shaji Thekkanath, actor and Chairman of World Malayali Council Brisbane Chapter; Jijo, Secretary of the same chapter; Jimmy Arickad, National Coordinator of World Malayali Federation; Abin Philip, Secretary of CSI Church; Binoy Thomas, President of Men’s Group Gold Coast; filmmaker Ranjith John of Swargam; and Philip Mani, Executive Member of North Brisbane Malayalee Association.
Reviews & Reflections:
I had the privilege of witnessing exceptional craftsmanship and extraordinary passion for cinema at the premiere of “Ghost Paradise” in Brisbane. It is truly inspiring to see how one individual, who has dedicated his entire life to the film industry, has achieved this remarkable milestone through sheer hard work and determination. Hats off to Mr. Joy K. Mathew — he has created history. I believe this is just the beginning, and I wish him the very best in all his future endeavours. Levin Joboy Navarasa Sunshine Coast – Australia’s renowned Malayalam drama group Drama Actor, Writer & Director
It was my privilege to watch “Ghost Paradise”, the first Malayalam movie produced in Queensland by Mr. Joy K. Mathew, at Event Cinemas, Upper Mount Gravatt, Brisbane. I truly loved the story. My heartfelt appreciation goes to our local team for creating such a beautiful film. This collaboration has enriched our community and showcased the remarkable talents among us. The local artists shone brilliantly, and the guidance of an experienced producer like Mr. Joy K. Mathew brought the story to life with strength and authenticity. His generosity in sharing his expertise has uplifted the entire project. Together, you have created something inspiring and memorable. I congratulate the entire team for your dedication. With best wishes, Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, Pittsworth,Qld.
Ghost Paradise is a Malayalam movie directed by Joy K. Mathew, an Australian Malayalam filmmaker. With its unique blend of humour, human experiences and thought-provoking themes, the film beautifully showcases Joy K. Mathew’s storytelling skills. As the first Malayalam film made in Queensland, Ghost Paradise marks a significant milestone in the Australian Malayalam film industry. Overall, it is a promising work that highlights the growing presence of Malayalam cinema in Australia. I extend my best wishes for the film’s success. Fr. Abraham Nadukunnel, Parish Priest, St Thomas the Apostle Syro-Malabar Forane Church, Brisbane South
Ghost Paradise, directed by Joy K. Mathew, is a heartfelt and grounded drama that marks a historic milestone in Australian Malayalam cinema. Featuring 26 newcomers from Australia alongside established Malayalam film artists, the movie blends sincere storytelling, subtle performances and emotional depth to create a touching and memorable experience. Its authentic portrayal of human relationships and cross-cultural narratives makes it more than just a film – it is a celebration of new beginnings in international Malayalam filmmaking. Fr. Robin Daniel Mulanjanamattathil Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, Brisbane
I proudly acknowledge the premiere screening of Ghost Paradise-the first Malayalam movie produced in Queensland-held at 17:45 on 27 November 2025 at Event Cinemas, Upper Mount Gravatt. This landmark achievement showcases the creative talents of our local Indian Australian community and positions Queensland as an emerging hub for multicultural cinema. Ghost Paradise not only marks a milestone for Malayalam film enthusiasts but also reflects the growing contribution of South Asian arts to Australia’s cultural landscape. I congratulate the entire production team, cast, and supporters for bringing this visionary project to life and for creating history in Queensland’s film industry. Preethi Suraj, President, The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ)
What an exciting milestone for the Malayalee community of Queensland – Ghost Paradise! This movie is truly a remarkable achievement, reflecting the talent and dedication of the Queensland Malayalee community. Joy K. Mathew’s vision and leadership have brought together 26 newcomers, creating a unique opportunity for aspiring filmmakers to shine. Only he could successfully helm a film featuring 26 beginners. It is wonderful to see such strong community support for local filmmaking. Congratulations to the entire team, and best wishes for the movie’s continued success! Shaji Theckanath, Chairman, World Malayalee Council, Brisbane Chapter
A bold and courageous vision, brought to life with dedication and perseverance – Mr. Joy K. Mathew has done an outstanding job in bringing Malayalee movie enthusiasts in Queensland to the world of cinema! Creating the first-ever Malayalam movie made in Queensland is an achievement the entire team can be truly proud of. Dileep Pattayath Navarasa Sunshine Coast – Australia’s renowned Malayalam drama group Drama Actor, Writer & Director.
