Anees Nadodi

Anees Nadodi – Biography (Production Designer)

Anees Nadodi is an acclaimed Indian Art director and Production designer, hailing from Chelari, Malappuram, Kerala. He completed his M.A. in Mass Communication and Journalism from the SAFI Institute of Advanced Study (SAFI IAS), University of Calicut, where his deep interest in the world of visual arts started taking shape.

During his early college days, Anees was intensely passionate about art, design, and craft. Even though he initially struggled to find direct opportunities in cinema, he continued to stay rooted in his passion. Before entering the film industry, he worked for two years as an Assistant Lecturer in Journalism, which helped him sharpen his creative and communication skills.

A major turning point came when he received an opportunity to assist in art direction for Tiyan movie and then Tamil film Nimir and the Malayalam film Adam Joan. His dedication and talent soon paved the way for his first independent art direction in the Malayalam film Sudani from Nigeria (2018). The film became a massive success, and Anees Nadodi’s realistic and soulful production design received widespread appreciation.

Following this breakthrough, he worked on several highly noted films such as Varathan, Luca, and Kappela. His work in Kappela (2020) earned him the National Film Award for Best Production Design, marking him as one of the most promising art directors of his generation.

Sustainable production design in cinema is becoming a powerful creative movement, and Production Designer Anees Nadodi stands at the forefront of this shift. He practices a deeply responsible approach, where upcycling philosophy shapes the entire set’s value—from concept to construction. By reusing materials, reducing landfill waste, and prioritizing eco-friendly choices, Anees not only brings visual authenticity to his films but also significantly reduces the overall budget. His work proves that mindful design can be both aesthetically rich and environmentally conscious. For Anees Nadodi, sustainability isn’t an add-on—it is the core of his production design ethos, making cinema greener one frame at a time.

Over the years, Anees Nadodi has completed around 20 films as an art director and production designer. His unique vision, meticulous detailing, and ability to bring authenticity to every frame have made him one of the most sought-after artisans in the industry.