Crime thriller 'Ben Johnson', released in 2005, is self explanatory of Anil C Menon's prowess as a powerful director. Also known for his adept use of technology in film making, Anil presented Malayalam Cinema with 'Raashtram' (2006), and 'Collector' (2011), with superstar Suresh Gopi in the lead role. Both Suresh Gopi starrers were open windows to the contemporary political issues faced by the state and the people and an eye opener on various socially relevant issues. Even though, both 'Raashtram' and 'Collector' were accepted very well in the box office, Ben Johnson remains his all time favorite to the masses, where he presented comedy actor Kalabhavan Mani as an action Hero. His first movie as an independent director was 'Malsaram' released in 2004, which was another Kalabhavan Mani starrer.