Showing posts with label Mohanlal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mohanlal. Show all posts
Mohanlal misses Australia show after visa delay, apologizes to fans
10:12 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (August 10, 2026)
Actor-filmmaker Mohanlal had to cancel his show in Sydney on Saturday night after failing to secure his Australian visa in time.
In a video message posted by the organisers on Saturday, the actor expressed regret over missing the show, saying he did not know how to explain the situation. Speaking in Malayalam, he said, “I don’t know how to express my grief. I am in a very sad situation. It has been almost 50 years since I entered the film industry. Perhaps, I am the actor from India who has performed in the most number of shows.”
The 66-year-old added that he was unaware of what had caused the delay in the visa process. “For the first time in my life, I did not get my visa. I don’t know how it happened. It could be a technical or clerical mistake or an AI-generated issue. I am taking all the blame on myself. I am telling you that it is my fault. I am very sorry about it,” he said.
Kayal Events, the organizers, also posted a note on Instagram announcing that the event had been postponed. They clarified that Mohanlal’s visa had not been rejected and remained under consideration by the relevant authorities.
They added, “All other artists are already in Sydney but the event cannot proceed without the main artist. Further details, including the new event details and ticket holder options, will be updated.”
Priyadarshan on musical drama with Mohanlal: "He has sung before, but I won’t make him sing"
10:08 AM
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 18, 2026)
Priyadarshan is nearing a career milestone few filmmakers do — his 100th film. Now that Bhooth Bangla has released and Haiwaan is in post-production, it’s time for the director to focus on the project that will team him up with his long-time friend and frequent collaborator Mohanlal. What will the duo give us this time around? A musical drama revolving around a father and his son, Priyadarshan revealed to mid-day.
“I will start my film with Mohanlal sir in November. It’s a complicated film because it’s a musical and will take me a lot of time to put together,” the director said.
A clash of egos and conflicting ideologies on music between the father and son, both renowned Carnatic singers, will form the backbone of the Malayalam movie.
Revealing that Mohanlal will portray the son, Priyadarshan added, “It’s a commercial entertainer with action, 12 songs, and a family drama at its heart. Both are Carnatic singers, and I would want the father to be a newcomer, an elderly person with a background in Carnatic and Hindustani music, and Kathakali. Usually Kathakali performers are actors and singers. It’s a challenge to cast the father. If S P Balasubrahmanyam was alive, I would have requested him to play the father’s role. Mohanlal sir sings very well. He has sung for movies before, but I won’t make him sing in this film as it involves classical singing on a high [octave].”
Priyadarshan to release his memoir with his 100th film, which reunites him with Mohanlal
3:15 PM
Currently writing his memoir, Priyadarshan plans to coincide its release with his 100th movie that will reunite him with his first hero, Mohanlal
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; January 24, 2026)
We suspect Priyadarshan has 30 hours in a day. In 2025, the filmmaker wrapped up two movies, Bhooth Bangla and Haiwaan. Now, he has revealed to mid-day that he also squeezed in the time to write his autobiography. The filmmaker plans to release his memoir in 2027, coinciding with a career landmark.
“I am writing, shooting, and writing again. I have completed my 97th movie, Haiwaan, starring Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar. The 98th will be with Pankaj Tripathi, Annu Kapoor, and Saurabh Shukla. I want to complete my memoir by 2027 as I should wrap up my 100th film by then,” he told us over a call.
The star of the yet-untitled autobiography will obviously be Priyadarshan and his rich career spanning over four decades. That said, another superstar, Mohanlal, will take pride of place in the book. After all, the Malayalam actor had fronted his directorial debut, Poochakkoru Mookkuthi (1984), and in a serendipitous turn of events, he will lead the director’s 100th outing too. The decades in between have seen the two friends collaborate multiple times.
Priyadarshan elaborated, “Mohanlal was the hero of my first film. I want to end my book with the last chapter on him. I think it’s the first time in the history of Indian cinema that an actor, who did a director’s first film, is also the hero of his 100th.”
Looking back at his life, the memoir will span his childhood, his entry into films as a screenwriter, and his rise as a director with three National Film Awards and multiple hits to credit. “I started my career at 19; I wrote my first Malayalam movie Kuyiline Thedi [1983]. Before that, I was a ghost writer for a couple of films,” he recalled.
“The book will also cover everyone I have worked with or met — from R D Burman to Rajesh Khanna, from Dev Anand to Akshay Kumar and Rajinikanth. I have met so many legends in the last 40 years.”
71st National Awards: Mohanlal’s ‘magical moment’, Shah Rukh Khan shares his first with Vikrant Massey
9:58 AM
Rani Dedicates Honour To Mothers At 71st Nat’l Film Awards
THE TIMES OF INDIA (September 24, 2025)
New Delhi: It was a night of star power and cinematic pride at Vigyan Bhawan on Tuesday as President Droupadi Murmu honoured stalwarts of Indian cinema at the 71st National Film Awards.
The spotlight, however, belonged to Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, who received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, while Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji and Vikrant Massey walked away with top honours in acting categories.
Mohanlal, already decorated with the Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019), was visibly moved as he accepted Indian cinema’s highest recognition. “I am deeply humbled to be the youngest recipient and only the second ever from Kerala. This moment is not mine alone, it belongs to the entire Malayalam film fraternity,” he said. Sharing the honour with colleagues, he added: “I never dared to dream of this moment. It feels magical, it feels sacred.”
President Murmu presented the award to Mohanlal amid a thunderous standing ovation. Fellow superstar Mammootty called him “a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema,” while Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised him as someone who “epitomizes excellence and versatility.”
In perhaps the most Bollywood-dominated edition of the awards, Shah Rukh Khan won his first National Award for Best Actor in over two decades for his blockbuster ‘Jawan’. “This award is a blessing. ‘Jawan’ was a film made from the heart, and I dedicate this to every fan who has stood by me through the years,” Shah Rukh said.
Actor Vikrant Massey, who shared the Best Actor award with Shah Rukh for ‘12th Fail’, credited director Vidhu Vinod Chopra for his journey. Rani Mukerji was honoured as Best Actress for ‘Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway’. “This film was about the power of a mother’s fight. This recognition belongs to every woman who has faced injustice and refused to give up,” Rani told mediapersons.
The Evening reflected cinema’s diversity: ‘Kathal—A Jackfruit Mystery’ was named Best Hindi Film, Sudipto Sen won Best Director for ‘The Kerala Story’, while Shilpa Rao took home Best Female Playback Singer for Chaleya from ‘Jawan’.
Jeethu Joseph halts early shoot of Hindi Drishyam 3, says legal action was considered
9:19 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (July 23, 2025)
The much-anticipated third instalment of the Drishyam franchise is officially underway, but only in spirit for now. While Drishyam 3, starring Mohanlal and directed by Jeethu Joseph, has yet to go on floors, the filmmaker has confirmed that the Malayalam version will take precedence over its Hindi counterpart featuring Ajay Devgn.
In a recent interview with Mathrubhumi, Jeethu addressed speculation that the Hindi version was gearing up to begin production first. Clarifying the situation, he revealed that he had to firmly intervene to maintain the chronology of releases. “There were discussions about shooting both the Malayalam and Hindi versions simultaneously, but we haven’t taken a final call on that. Initially, there were plans to begin the Hindi version first, but after a legal warning was hinted at, those plans were dropped,” he said.
Jeethu also confirmed that he is still working on the screenplay, and that the Malayalam film will only go on floors in October this year. The Hindi adaptation is expected to begin production only after that.
Speaking at a recent event, the director shared an update on the writing process, saying, “I finished writing the climax of Drishyam 3 last night. I’ve been under immense pressure for a long time.”
Launched in 2013 with Mohanlal in the lead, Drishyam became a cult thriller and was later remade in multiple languages, including Hindi.
Chandra Barot, original ‘Don’ director, passes away at 86
10:07 AM
Vijay Singh (THE TIMES OF INDIA; July 21, 2025)
Mumbai: Film director Chandra Barot, best known for the blockbuster classic, Don (1978), which prompted multiple remakes in southern languages and spawned a series of sequels decades later, passed away due to medical complications at Guru Nanak Hospital in Bandra (east) on Sunday. He was 86.
“My husband was suffering from pulmonary fibrosis for the past seven years. He died due to a cardiac arrest at 6.30 am,'' his wife Deepa Barot told TOI.
Barot also directed the Bengali superhit, ‘Ashrita’ (1990), starring Mithu Mukherjee. Barot's family lived in Tanzania, but was forced to come back to India following racial conflicts in the East African country in the 1960s. His sister, Kamal Barot, was a playback singer in Bollywood. He assisted Bollywood biggie Manoj Kumar in films such as 'Purab Aur Pachhim', 'Shor' and 'Roti Kapada Aur Makaan'.
The making of the original ‘Don’ is a legendary Bollywood tale. Barot's cinematographer-producer friend, Nariman Irani, was reeling under a debt of nearly Rs 12 lakh after his first film as producer, 'Zindagi Zindagi', had flopped. Barot offered to help. He was friendly with Amitabh Bachchan and Zeenat Aman having worked with them in 'Roti Kapada Aur Makaan'. They all decided to work in ‘Don’ to help Irani. Tragically, Irani passed away in 1977, before Don could hit the screen. Amitabh Bachchan, who won the Best Actor Filmfare award, dedicated the award to Irani and his wife.
In the 1970s, 'Don' was an unusual title for Hindi films. Barot's mentor, Manoj Kumar, had asked him with a quizzical tone if he was making some film called "Down''! Barot explained that it was a Spanish word 'Don' which actually meant 'gentleman'. Kumar understood and suggested that the pacy second-half needed a song. The advice led to the birth of the chartbuster, ‘Khai ke paan Benaraswala.’
Don, which celebrated platinum jubilee, was remade in Tamil as Billa (1980) with Rajinikanth as hero. A year earlier, N T Rama Rao was the lead in Yugandhar, the film’s Telugu version. In Malayalam, the film was remade as Shobharaj (1986) with Mohanlal in lead. Later director Farhan Akhtar reinterpreted the movie in Don: The Chase Begins Again (2006) and Don 2: The Chase Continues.
Several Bollywood personalities such as Farhan and Kunal Kohli mourned his passing on social media. “Saddened to learn that the director of the OG Don is no more. RIP Chandra Barot-ji. Deepest condolences to the family,'' posted Farhan.
On a rainy Sunday, Barot's last rites were carried out at the Kherwadi based Hindu crematorium in Bandra (east). It was a low-key affair attended by his family members and some relatives. As the final rites took place, one could not help but recall a Barot remark he made years ago: "I will be remembered as the man who made Don".
Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 to be made in Hindi and Malayalam
8:24 AM
Sources say Mohanlal’s Drishyam 3 to be made in Malayalam and Hindi, which can be disadvantageous to Ajay Devgn’s Bollywood adaptation of the crime thriller
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 16, 2025)
A howdunnit’s biggest trick is its mystery reveal. But the success of the Drishyam franchise defied that notion. Even as each of the Hindi adaptations, led by Ajay Devgn, came almost two years after the release of Mohanlal’s Drishyam (2013) and Drishyam 2 (2021), leaving enough time for the audience to know the plot, it found wide success at the box office. But things may not be the same with the third instalment.
mid-day has exclusively learnt that Mohanlal and director Jeethu Joseph are keen to make Drishyam 3 a bilingual offering to be released in Malayalam and Hindi. With the original’s makers targeting the Hindi audience, among other sections, it may pose a problem for Devgn’s adaptation.
From what we’ve heard, Joseph and Mohanlal are working towards taking Drishyam 3 on floors by May-end.
A source says, “Buoyed by the past two editions’ success, Jeethu, Mohanlal and producer Antony Perumbavoor are keen to make the third outing a pan-India offering. This can become an issue for Ajay’s movie, as his Drishyam 3’s script is still being worked upon. One of the reasons why Ajay’s Drishyam has been successful so far is because the Malayalam original didn’t tap into the Hindi-speaking audience. But if Mohanlal’s movie releases much earlier than Ajay’s, that too in Hindi, it can be disadvantageous to the latter since they both always share story and plot points.”
Meanwhile, the unit is setting the stage for the crime thriller’s shoot, which will see Mohanlal reprise his role of Georgekutty, who has successfully evaded the police despite committing a murder. Thodupuzha in Kerala, where the first movie was also shot, will be the filming location. A set was constructed in Kudayathoor for Drishyam 2, which may also be used.
Another source adds, “Ajay’s Drishyam 3 can roll only by October as he will wrap up Dhamaal 4 and Ranger before beginning the Abhishek Pathak-directed remake. Kumar Mangat Pathak, who has produced the Hindi adaptations so far, is in talks with the makers of the original to see whether both versions can have a simultaneous release.”
Joseph, Mohanlal and Perumbavoor remained unavailable for comment.
Prithviraj being made a scapegot; Mohanlal knew every shot of L2 Empuraan-Mallika Sukumaran
9:33 AM
Following the row around L2 Empuraan, Prithviraj Sukumaran’s mum says he did not ‘mislead’ anyone
HINDUSTAN TIMES (April 1, 2025)
Director Prithviraj Sukumaran has become the centre of controversy after the release of his film L2 Empuraan.
While the film undergoes 17 new cuts to remove ‘offensive’ scenes about the 2002 Gujarat riots, Prithviraj’s mother has come to his defence, claiming some people want to make him a “scapegoat”.
On Sunday, Malayalam actor Mallika Sukumaran took to Facebook to share her disappointment over the criticism her son has been facing. She also addressed the claims that Prithviraj had “misled” the film’s lead, actor Mohanlal and its producers.
“This is a mother’s pain. There is no point in someone making fun of me for speaking openly about it. Neither Mohanlal nor the producers have said that Prithviraj cheated them. I don’t think they will ever say that,” she wrote.
“Mohanlal is like my younger brother. I have known Lal since childhood. But it is very sad that some people are trying to make my son a scapegoat without the knowledge of Lal or the producers,” she added.
Mallika also clarified that neither the tone nor the narrative were withheld from the team: “If you feel that there is any problem with the film, then [the entire team] is responsible for it. They all read the script together. They all saw the scenes being shot and everyone agreed... how can Prithviraj be solely responsible?”
The 70-year-old also noted that despite reports that they were “blindsided” by the final version, Mohanlal and the producers were “aware of every shot” of the film. “I want to make it clear that there is nothing in this film that Mohanlal does not know. Neither (him or the producers) would say that they were unaware of anything,” she ended.
Mohanlal apologizes
Acknowledging the row in a Facebook post on Sunday, Mohanlal wrote in Malayalam, “I have come to know that some of the political and social themes in the film Empuraan, have caused great distress to my loved ones. As an artiste, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films harbours hatred towards any political movement, ideology or sect.”
He added, “The team and I are deeply sorry... and with the realization that the responsibility lies with all of us behind the film, we have decided together to remove such subjects (sic).”
What is the controversy?
The film’s depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots, as well as the trajectory of the antagonist Baba Bajrangi (Abhimanyu Singh) from rioter to politician have sparked outrage. Right-wing groups have since slammed the film for ‘distorting facts’, while the Congress party has praised it. Soon after, the production team announced that the film would undergo revisions. As per reports, 17 scenes, including those featuring riots and violence against women will be edited out.
Mohanlal expresses regret as L2 Empuraan sparks political storm
10:12 AM
THE TIMES OF INDIA (March 31, 2025)
Kochi/Thiruvananthapuram: Malayalam superstar Mohanlal expressed regret Sunday over distress caused by political & social themes in his movie L2 Empuraan, sequel to Lucifer. His statement follows backlash over the film’s alleged portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots, leading Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to mandate 17 changes.
“As an artist, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films harbours animosity towards any political movement, ideology, or religious group,” Mohanlal wrote in a Facebook post. “I have come to understand that certain themes introduced in Empuraan have caused distress among many who care for me… We have collectively decided to remove such themes from the movie.”
However, CM Pinarayi Vijayan of CPM and opposition leader VD Satheesan of Congress defended Empuraan, condemning alleged efforts by Sangh Parivar to pressure changes to the film.
Vijayan, who watched the film Sunday, posted on social media: “I watched it amidst widespread hate campaigns unleashed by the Sangh Parivar and communal forces against the film, its actors, and its crew.”
The film, which released worldwide on March 27 and grossed over Rs 100 crore at the box office, has drawn sharp criticism from BJP and RSS members in Kerala. RSS-affiliated publication Organiser claiming some scenes were “purposefully designed to reinforce the image of Hindus as the primary aggressors during the 2002 riots”.
BJP’s Kerala unit president Rajeev Chandrasekhar said he would no longer watch the movie. “I had said I would watch Empuraan when I heard it was a sequel to Lucifer. But now I have come to know that the makers of the movie themselves have made 17 amendments and that the movie is undergoing re-censorship. I understand there were topics in the movie that disturbed Mohanlal fans and other viewers,” he wrote on Facebook.
“A movie should be watched as a movie. It can’t be seen as history. Also, any movie that tries to build a story by distorting the truth is doomed to fail. So, will I watch this sequel to Lucifer? No. Am I disappointed by this type of moviemaking? Yes.”
The CM accused Sangh linked groups of attempting to suppress the film for depicting historical realities. “The film references one of the most brutal genocides the country has seen... functionaries of BJP and RSS are issuing open threats. It is not a tribute to democracy when communalists can destroy a work of art and viciously attack artistes for taking a stand against communalism and depicting its horrors.”
Congress’s Satheesan accused RSS of attempting to distort history. “They believe that freedom of expression means the freedom to create narratives that favour them,” he said. “It is a sign of utter failure and cowardice. No matter how much one tries to cover it up, historical truths will always stand clear.”
CBFC seeks 17 cuts as Mohanlal starrer L2 Empuraan stirs Kerala storm
3:34 PM
Nijeesh Narayanan (THE TIMES OF INDIA; March 30, 2025)
Kochi: Central Board of Film Certification has ordered 17 changes to Malayalam movie "L2 Empuraan" starring superstar Mohanlal following backlash over its alleged portrayal of 2002 Gujarat riots.
The movie was released on March 27 and the filmmakers claimed it quickly crossed Rs 100 crore at box office. However, criticism from BJP and RSS members in Kerala erupted soon after its release.
RSS-affiliated publication Organiser accused the film of pushing a divisive narrative, alleging it was "purposefully designed to reinforce image of Hindus as primary aggressors during the 2002 riots".
The article also criticised Mohanlal, claiming that his participation in the project "betrays his loyal fan base".
CBFC's office in Kerala reviewed the film following intervention from central govt, according to sources. The board suggested edits and if the revised version is submitted by Monday, it is expected to be approved for screening in the following days.
The film's producers have agreed to the modifications. Producer Gokulam Gopalan said Saturday he had instructed director Prithviraj Sukumaran to make changes "if any scenes or dialogues in the movie had hurt anyone".
The controversy has sparked political reactions across party lines. Congress praised "Empuraan" for what they described as its depiction of the "reality behind Gujarat riots". Kerala unit of Congress wrote on X: "Like Grok, Empuraan has demolished the Sangh Varsity!"
While BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar initially wished success for the film on social media, several BJP and RSS functionaries later condemned it.
Sangh-linked organisations like Hindu Aikyavedi and Bharatiya Yuvamorcha criticised the Mohanlal-starrer. But BJP state secretary P Sudheer denied reports that the party's core committee discussed the controversy. Senior BJP politician M T Ramesh said: "Movies can be treated as films and there is no need for the party to oppose a movie".
30% of L2: Empuraan is in Hindi; will retain that in all five versions-Prithviraj Sukumaran
8:31 AM
Readying the ambitious L2: Empuraan for release, director Prithviraj Sukumaran says he prioritises the film’s story over its scale and megastar Mohanlal
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 4, 2025)
There is a term Prithviraj Sukumaran uses for himself—“a part-time director”. He may juggle his directorial ventures with his acting career, but there is no denying that he has created one of Malayalam cinema’s biggest franchise films, Lucifer. The sequel, L2: Empuraan, is set to release in March in five languages—Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi.
“The fact that it’s a big film is not a result of me chasing one. Its scale and canvas are purely based on what is written on paper. This is an honest pursuit of the narrative progression from part one. Having said that, the story has organically become [pan-India]. It will now resonate better with people from other parts of the country and maybe even across the world. About 30 per cent of the film is in Hindi, and I will retain that in all five versions,” starts Sukumaran.
Led by Mohanlal, the ambitious action thriller comes at a time when Malayalam cinema is having its moment in the sun. As a leading actor-filmmaker in the Kerala film industry, what does Sukumaran think separates Malayalam movies from those of other languages? He points to their ability to make a powerful story palatable for the masses.
“Massy isn’t a negative term. The idea is to realize that a massy film can also be great. I have a problem with this idea that mainstream films are inferior to content-driven ones. Massy films are also content-driven. That’s why Manmohan Desai films remain great, or why Salim-Javed were the biggest superstars of the ’70s and ’80s in Bollywood. With L2, I don’t want to give you a rehashed version of Lucifer with clap-trap moments. I’ve honestly pursued the narrative progression of the franchise, and within that, given unpredictable character arcs. It’s intricately plot-driven. As a filmmaker, I need to be aware that the expectation born out of part one’s success cannot dictate how I make part two. I should stay true to my original vision. This film wasn’t born out of part one’s success. This was already envisioned. We already know what the third part will be like,” he smiles.
If a powerful story is Sukumaran’s foundation for the franchise, one of its biggest pillars is leading man Mohanlal. The superstar has known Sukumaran since the latter was a boy, but on set, it was purely an actor-director relationship.
“When I was about to do Lucifer, I told myself that I’ll do the film that I’ve envisioned. I’m going to make sure that I get what I want from my actors, even if it is at the cost of pissing them off. Thankfully, because I’m also an actor, I understand what actors look for from directors. I share a wonderful relationship with Mohanlal. He trusts me as a maker. So, when I tell him, ‘I’d like you to do this,’ he understands it and very seldom does he ask me why. It has been an absolute privilege to direct him in three movies.”
World's best attack helicopter replica for Mohanlal’s entry in L2: Empuraan
8:17 AM
For Mohanlal’s entry sequence, L2: Empuraan’s makers build a replica of AH-64 Apache helicopter with the aid of engineers; chopper to be used in the threequel as well
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; January 29, 2025)
Almost six years since Lucifer’s (2019) release, Mohanlal and director Prithviraj Sukumaran are ready with the sequel, L2: Empuraan. On January 26, the makers unveiled the teaser. One of the teaser’s standout elements is Mohanlal’s entry sequence that involves an AH-64 Apache, considered among the world’s best attack helicopters. Interestingly, the chopper wasn’t rented or digitally created for the actioner. Since Apache helicopters weren’t available in India, the makers decided to have a replica constructed from scratch with the aid of engineers.
Almost six years since Lucifer’s (2019) release, Mohanlal and director Prithviraj Sukumaran are ready with the sequel, L2: Empuraan. On January 26, the makers unveiled the teaser. One of the teaser’s standout elements is Mohanlal’s entry sequence that involves an AH-64 Apache, considered among the world’s best attack helicopters. Interestingly, the chopper wasn’t rented or digitally created for the actioner. Since Apache helicopters weren’t available in India, the makers decided to have a replica constructed from scratch with the aid of engineers.
The team used lightweight materials like aluminium and fibreglass for the helicopter’s frame as that ensured easy manoeuvring during the shoot. Advanced 3D printing technology was employed to craft intricate parts, such as the missile pods and cockpit controls. To ensure that the chopper managed certain functions, the team engineered moving parts, such as the rotor blades, and installed LED screens in the cockpit to simulate real-time aviation controls.
A supervisor elaborated on the post-production work, saying, “While the physical replica handled close-up shots, CGI enhancements was used to depict flight and combat.”
Excessive camera movements in 3D film and tilting could cause nausea to the viewer-Mohanlal
8:23 AM
Mohanlal says his directorial debut, a children’s film that is being dubbed as a visual spectacle, was crafted with the intention of adding “moments of wonder” in the lives of those addicted to screens
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 30, 2024)
What inspires one of the country’s biggest superstars to direct a children’s movie? That is where we begin our conversation with Mohanlal, as his new drama, Barroz, hits theatres across the country.
“Children are increasingly drawn to screens, be it to participate in games, watch videos, or scroll through social media content. [This consumption] comes at the cost of the outdoor activities that were once a staple part of people’s childhood. Children would climb trees, play in the fields, tell stories, and explore their creativity in ways that shaped their understanding of the world. Today, those moments of wonder and connection are becoming rare. So, I thought we should do something for children,” he says of his directorial debut that is being widely dubbed as a visual spectacle.
Actors who’ve turned attention to direction will agree that helming even a regular production comes with a host of challenges. The obstacles in Mohanlal’s way were multifold, given that Barroz is a technologically advanced 3D offering that demanded the use of contemporary filmmaking methods. Direction, he says, required him to be uncomfortable with the unknown.
“You need special cameras and [an understanding of] colours, costumes, and makeup. Everything is different from the normal filmmaking process. I have done this [been part of films] for 47 years, and here is something new. We created animated characters and underwater sequences. We have a fully animated underwater song sequence starring the main characters,” he says, asserting that he also had to exercise restraint while employing technology to ensure it did not hamper the storytelling.
“Too many complicated shots could affect the storyline. Excessive camera movements and tilting could cause nausea or disorientation for the viewer. So, I had to think from the perspective of the audience. I have to credit Santosh Sivan for his groundwork. The 3D glasses [he chose] reduce screen brightness [and enhance] colour perception, especially in the shots for which we had to compensate during the shoot. The visual effects too needed to be rendered with the depth, which could be computationally intensive and expensive.”
Mohanlal may have put his prowess as an actor on display for several years, but taking on a new role enabled him to showcase his artistry in a different way. “To direct a film, one must be patient and committed. Your passion and integrity must be [evident]. This is a requirement for every film, but a movie like this one needs you to be stronger because each day is complicated. Post-production is the most difficult part of making it.”
Rubbishing claims that superstars are not given the freedom to experiment, he says he has taken the decision to be part of all kinds of cinema ever since he began his journey. “As an actor, I developed myself inside that aura. You have to approach cinema with passion. There has been a beautiful flow in my life for 47 years. I never stop feeding the excited kid in me.”
We can’t part ways with the actor without asking him about the Drishyam franchise that has been fronted by him since 2015, and whose Hindi remake—led by Ajay Devgn—gained unwavering attention from Bollywood fans.
Would the third edition of the franchise be underway soon? “We are trying [to create it],” he confirms. “But it’s not that easy. To make the sequel, it took us six years. So, when we create another edition, we must be careful. We should not ridicule the appreciation we have received from the audience.”
Mohanlal’s resignation is disappointing; Mammootty’s silence is also very sad-Sajitha Madathil
8:33 AM
Sajitha Madathil, actor and one of the founding members of the Women in Cinema Collective, criticises the lack of accountability of key figures in the Malayalam film industry
Mugdha Kapoor (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 31, 2024)
In the wake of the Hema Committee report’s explosive revelations on August 19, which uncovered a disturbing prevalence of sexual misconduct, casting couch practices and wage disparities, the Malayalam film industry has been grappling with significant issues of harassment and exploitation.
In response, the entire 17-member executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) that was elected only this June, including president, actor Mohanlal, resigned on August 27.
To understand the broader implications and reactions, we spoke with Sajitha Madathil, actor and founding member of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), who reflects, “Mohanlal’s resignation is disappointing. It appears to be a move to avoid further scrutiny and responsibility. Instead of stepping away, they should have stayed and worked to address these issues.”
‘DISHEARTENING TO SEE INFLUENTIAL FIGURES NOT TAKING A PROACTIVE ROLE’
They are powerful people. Mohanlal is a respectable person in the industry. He should have taken the initiative to clear the situation. We were expecting that. Mammootty never spoke anything about it (Hema Committee report). B Unnikrishnan, actor-director and FEFKA leader, he too never talked about it, just issued a press release. Mammootty’s silence is also very sad.
IMPACT OF MALE-DOMINATED LEADERSHIP
Their actions and statements often reflect a lack of understanding and support for these issues. While some individuals are sensitive, the overall leadership frequently neglects women’s concerns. The dismissive attitudes and public performances against WCC reveal an unwillingness to engage constructively.
While she finds the silence of several veteran actors including Mammootty and B Unnikrishnan disappointing, the actor feels the fallout of the report has led to positive developments in the industry: “In 2017 [when WCC was formed] women didn’t even have the space to discuss these issues. Initially, when we raised concerns about sexual harassment in the industry and sought support for Bhavana (Menon), AMMA and the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) dismissed these claims. But now, these issues can’t be ignored.”
She goes on to note that the male-dominated leadership within such bodies “reflects a lack of understanding” on issues such as sexual misconduct and gender equality.
“The shows AMMA does and the statements its members have made in the past, are all very misogynistic. While there are individuals who are sensitive to these issues, the overall leadership often does not prioritize concerns raised by women,” she shares, referring to the lack of accountability and continued silence from veteran actors such as Mohanlal and Mammootty.
As the industry continues to reckon with the rampant abuse artistes face, Madathil tells us that the Hema Committee report has had a significant cultural shift across regional cinema. “Each region has its own pace. While we are making progress, it’s gradual. The reality is that speaking out can sometimes lead to personal repercussions for those involved. Most female artistes who raised their voices are out of the industry now, while the men continue working. It’s challenging, but the important thing is to keep pushing for change. The exposure and discussion are crucial,” she asserts.
What measures should be taken to prevent further harassment? “In 2022, WCC advocated for the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) for all film production units. While these committees have not been functioning effectively, proper redressal mechanisms are important. The government and industry insiders must sit together to chart out ways to bring about change,” she replies.
I don’t think Mohanlal should have stepped down as President-Shanthi Priya
8:16 AM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 30, 2024)
Amid mounting furore over the findings of the Hema Committee report, actor Shanthi Priya has questioned the effectiveness of actor Mohanlal’s resignation as Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) president. “There was no point. Mohanlal shouldn’t have resigned — he could have actually supported the victims, been there and said, ‘Yes, we are there, please raise your voice and come to speak to us,’ this should have been the approach,” reasons the 54-year-old, who has worked in over 50 films across South cinema.
Mohanlal’s resignation, tendered on Tuesday, August 27, followed the disbanding of AMMA’s executive committee, elected only in June. The decision came after serious allegations of sexual assault and misbehaviour were raised against some of the committee’s members, including office-bearers.
The actor goes on to add that sexual harassment is pervasive, and that instead of singling out industries, instilling the fear of punishment is needed. “Even men are harassed, and across industries. I am a pan-India actor and these things happen in all the industries... Two years later, someone from the Telugu industry can come up and say something,” she says, adding, “Everybody has raised their voice but the question that now arises is — how strong will the action that’s taken be, and how long will it take to get to the point where our future generations don’t need to worry. There should be fear among potential perpetrators. At the moment, it is missing.”
Samantha lauds Women in Cinema Collective
Actor Samantha is the latest major star to openly express support for the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), which played a crucial role in the formation of the Hema Committee. “For years, I’ve followed the incredible work of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) in Kerala. Their journey has been anything but easy. Now, as the serious implications of the Hema Committee report come to light, we owe a debt of gratitude to WCC,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories on Wednesday.
Cowardly, a cop-out: Parvathy on AMMA’s collective resignation
Actor Parvathy, a founding member of the WCC, who quit AMMA in 2020, came down heavily on the body’s executive committee’s decision to step down. “The first reaction I had when I heard the news about this collective resignation was, ‘how cowardly.’ How cowardly of them to step away from a position where they are accountable to speak to the media. That’s an immediate cop-out. With this, the onus has again fallen on women to take the conversations and debates forward. When are the men going to call themselves and each other out in front of the community clearly they are a part of?” she told Mojo Story.
Mohanlal, AMMA team resign post sexual misconduct allegations against its members
10:09 AM
The Hema Committee report’s revelations of pervasive sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry has triggered a wave of criticism and calls for a change directed at the association representing Malayalam actors
BOMBAY TIMES (August 28, 2024)
Following the several sexual harassment allegations that have been raised after the publishing of the Hema Committee report, the executive committee members of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), including its president and veteran actor Mohanlal, have resigned.
The statement, which was released by AMMA on Tuesday afternoon, announcing the resignations, said, “Following the release of the Hema Committee report, and in light of the sexual allegations that were raised in various media against some committee members, the executive committee is facing up to its moral responsibility and resigning. A new committee will be formed following a general body meeting in two months.”
The statement added that AMMA’s charity work will continue and the current executive committee will continue on a temporary basis. “Our hope is that a new committee that is capable of rebuilding and strengthening AMMA will take charge,” concluded the statement.
----------------------------------------
Can’t undo what I have done, but I apologize, says Sajin Baabu
Sajin Baabu, director of Biriyaani, was accused of alleged sexual misconduct by two women after he put up an online post lauding the Hema Committee Report. In response to the allegations, Sajin says, “I can’t undo what I’ve done. I apologize and ensure that over the past several years I have not and will not repeat this behaviour.”
Calling the second incident “untrue”, the director adds, “The first incident took place around 2013-14, and I had apologized several times to the woman and we had established that the matter had been resolved. In 2017, I was made known the untrue facts surrounding the second incident reported to the members of the WCC (Women in Cinema Collective) members. When I spoke about this to the WCC, I also tried to contact her (the second woman), but she was not willing to come to a meeting. So, I did not provoke her and just said I’ve made mistakes, because I, too, want to put this behind me and get on with my projects.” — Anna Mathews
The entire crew fainted as the oxygen levels were very low. But Mohanlal never collapsed-Major Ravi
8:45 AM
Yashika Mathur (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 26, 2024)
Filmmaker Major Ravi, SM (Retd), served the Indian Army before entering the world of films and directing several projects, including the 2008 film Kurukshetra. The only southern-Indian language film with the India-Pakistan Kargil War at its core, it starred Mohanlal as Colonel Mahadevan.
Unlike most films about the war, Kurukshetra was shot in Dras, Kargil. A huge unit was taken from Kerala to shoot in tough weather conditions and low oxygen levels but the film’s hero Mohanlal didn’t show signs of any weakness, recalls Ravi.
“Many junior artistes had come from Kerala to play soldiers. The entire crew fainted at a few places because the oxygen levels were very low. But Mohanlal never collapsed — he was, in fact, the first one to run during action scenes, amongst other soldiers. He would overtake everyone, he had that stamina. We were both commandos as well as artistes in and out,” says Ravi, who has directed the actor in several films such as Keerthi Chakra (2006) and Kandahar (2010).
For Ravi, who was also posted near the Line of Control from 1988 to 1992, the understanding of the area came in handy at several places. He shot in real locations to give viewers a feel of what the Kargil War was for the soldiers. As part of his two-year posting in Kargil, he served as an undercover intelligence officer.
“I knew the place like the back of my hand, like, kahan khade hone se the Pakistanis could see us and from where they could not. This place from where we were shooting, I could see Tiger Hill and even the Kargil artillery firing range. It was off Kargil, off the airfield, where we could fire weapons. I knew that we could shoot scenes there. So, it was very easy to shoot for me,” he says.
‘Would do very well on OTT’
Ravi remembers a scene in Kurukshetra (2008) that got a roaring response from the audience: “During every war be it 1971 or anything, the government used to give an order that after the war, you retreat to wherever we were posted as status quo. But that changed during the Kargil War. I have put a scene in my film where the Prime Minister says, ‘Colonel sahab, main Bharat ka Pradhanmantri bol raha hoon. Jahan aap khade hain, wo aapki zameen hai. Wahin pe gaad do jhanda.’ The kind of roar that was there in the theatre when this dialogue came on was tremendous!” He feels that the film, which is only in Malayalam, was restricted to a much smaller audience then, and “would do very well on OTT”.
I called my wife and said, ‘I am the least qualified person on Malaikottai Vaaliban's set’-Danish Sait
8:42 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 12, 2024)
Danish Sait took a gamble when he played the anti-hero in his Malayalam film debut, Malaikottai Vaaliban. While the film didn’t create many waves commercially, it got the actor-comedian noticed.
Happy with the response, the 35-year-old says, “Malayalam was a brand new language [for me]. During those three months, while I was shooting in Pokhran, Rajasthan, with my head half-shaved, I never did anything on the internet, no Instagram video or branded content. I devoted myself to this one film. Looking back, I’m glad I did that.”
His dedication caught the attention of Mohanlal, a veteran actor in the Malayalam industry, who also played the lead in the film. “Mr Mohanlal gave me compliment [on my work in the film],” he says, adding, ”It was quite an accomplished film set and I was intimidated. I remember calling my wife (Anya Rangaswami) and saying, ‘I am the least qualified person on set’. There were people who had National Awards, State Awards; someone’s film went to the Oscars, and more. But, everyone was very sweet to me.”
Sait is active in the stand-up comedy space and has previously worked in films such as Humble Politician Nograj (2018) and 777 Charlie (2022).
It’s intimidating to have an icon like Mohanlal around you-Danish Sait
3:39 PM
Initially nervous about working with Mohanlal on Malaikottai Vaaliban, actor-comic Danish on how the Malayalam superstar supported and guided him
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; January 21, 2024)
When Danish Sait first watched a Mohanlal film 16 years ago, he would’ve laughed had someone told him that he would share screen space with the Malayalam superstar some day. Today, the actor-comic is gearing up for the release of Malaikottai Vaaliban, a Lijo Jose Pellissery-directed period drama led by Mohanlal. The movie marks many firsts for Sait—it not only is his maiden Malayalam film, but also sees him explore a space far removed from comedy, which is his forte.
“I am excited to play characters that are far from me, so that I can push myself to get to them. There are so many wonderful filmmakers I’d love to collaborate with. I am not in a hurry. It’s not the money that drives me to pursue acting; it’s my love for the art,” he says.
The cherry on the cake was obviously the opportunity to work with Mohanlal. Shooting alongside an icon can be nerve-wracking. But Sait praises the Malayalam superstar for creating a comfortable space for him.
“It’s intimidating to have such an icon around you. No matter what I did, I looked up to him for approval. At the same time, there were certain things I did that he pointed out, saying, ‘I like what you did there.’ I was nervous in some shots. There are big set-pieces, the director is handling hundreds of extras, sir was present—in such cases, you want to give your best take, and not inconvenience anyone. In a scene, I did a few retakes and sir said, ‘Just relax and do it so-and-so way. It will be easier.’ That’s exactly what happened.”
I am a 48-year-old independent woman, still at the top of her game and not slowing down anytime soon-Malaika Arora
4:46 PM
Anna Mathews (KOCHI TIMES; June 26, 2023)
Kerala received its daughter with warmth, with young fashion influencers shouting, ‘I love you’ to Malaika Arora, who was in her home state for a salon inauguration. “I’m a good mix of north and south,” said the actress, who owes her Malayali roots to her mother; her father is Punjabi.
Malaika said that she used to speak a smattering of Malayalam at home in her childhood, but has lost touch now, though she still understands it well. “My mother’s side is from Alappuzha, so I’ve been here quite a few times. We still have family here,” she said, adding that she loved the local cuisine, like the puttu and kadala, which she’d had earlier that day.
ON BEING A BEAUTY BRAND AMBASSADOR AT 48
I think it says a lot about me. If you can look a certain way at a certain age, that speaks volumes for the way one goes about their life. I am very proud that I am a 48-year-old independent woman, still at the top of her game and not slowing down anytime soon.
MALAYALAM FILM FAN
It was a family ritual to watch Malayalam films together and I’ve grown up watching Mammootty and Mohanlal movies. To date, I feel some of the finest films, in terms of content, talent and technicians, come from here. That’s why you probably have so many remakes of Malayalam films.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)