Ajith to Join Kamal - Lokesh LCU ? Dad Vijay Record Sale and Son title Out/ Lal- Major Ravi Clash

 

Latest buzz of Loki- Ajith combo is that there is a possibility of Kamal Haasan joining the group and be part of the LCU . A track from Vikram to start with Ajith new film. We know that Rajiinikanth backed out of film with Kamal to be directed by Lokesh and instead plumped for film with C Sundar  and later a film with Nelson. However a almost confirmed line of Ajith future setup is as follows : Lokesh has narrated 2 scripts to Thala. One was the negative role film that was narrated to Superstar. Another is a subtle yet violent action film written purely for Thala. Thala loved the second script and asked Lokesh to work on that. That would be the immediate project for both Thala and Lokesh following AK64 (for Thala) and DC (for Lokesh)

Kaidhi 2 is reportedly delayed and Karthi is concentrating in HIT 4, Sardar 2, Marshall part 1 and part 2 and another project with Sundar C. So Kaidhi 2 is delayed again. It won't happen in the near future. The pre production itself would take time.

Thala after Lokesh project will do another film with Adhik Ravichandran (AK66) and will do a film with Marco director Haseef Adini (AK67) and a film with FIR and Mr. X director Manu Anand (AK68).

Jana Nayagan’s Business Once Agan Proves The Stardom Of Vijay

Prime Video has purchased the film’s digital rights for 110 Cr, while Phars Films has acquired the overseas rights for 75 Cr. Tamil Nadu rights are bought by Romeo Pictures for 100 Cr, and Kerala rights are also bought by the same team for 15 Cr. With audio rights, the pre-business of the film already crosses 300 Cr, and if we add the Karnataka rights, satellite rights, and North India and Telugu states theatrical business, Jana Nayagan will easily do around 400 Cr overall business.

Jason Sanjay, son of Thalapathy Vijay, makes his directorial debut under Lyca Productions. Today, the makers revealed the film’s title with Sundeep Kishan leading the cast.

The movie is titled Sigma, and the first-look poster shows Sundeep in full action mode, seated on a pile of cash, clearly hinting at an action-driven storyline. Thaman is composing the music, and the shoot is underway. The film will release in both Tamil and Telugu, with the rest of the cast expected to be announced soon.

Director Major Ravi’s new announcement – Pahalgam: Op. Sindoor. He hasn’t named Mohanlal in the cast, but that didn’t stop social media from blowing up. The moment the project was revealed, fans began urging Mohanlal to stay away from it.

Their argument is simple: Major Ravi’s recent work hasn’t landed well, and they don’t want Lalettan slipping into another poorly received collaboration. Some even pointed out the director’s off-screen controversies as another reason to be cautious.

Right now, everything depends on Mohanlal. Will he pick the film despite the backlash? Or will he take his fans’ warning seriously and move on to something else? For the moment, everyone’s just waiting to see which way he goes.

 

 

 

Mammootty Speech Irks Marxists as Lal - Kamal Escape

 Mega Star Mammootty speech at Kerala’s India’s First Extreme Poverty-Free State event has not gone down well with hardcore Marxist supporters. They feel that he made a dig at CPM Government by saying that highways and other developments cannot be an achievement without eradicating poverty itself. In short he debunked the claim that freeing 64,000 families from extreme poverty was not such a great feat, From what we know Kamal Haasan was very much in Chennai and had no public function and Mohanlal too was in Chennai shooting for BB Malayalam in Vel Film City on October 31. Whether he left for Dubai in wee jours of November 1 st is not known. These Two celebs did not turn up at Thiruvanthapuram to be part of the Kerala State Government prrogramme to mark India’s First Extreme Poverty-Free State: It was left to Mammootty who after a stint in Hyderabad and UK to come to Thiruvanthapuram to make the event special. On sidelines, Actor Prem Kumar who was acting Chairman of Chalachithra Academy was replaced by Resul Pookutty Oscar winner and reason was that ASHA workers protest got a support from Kumar. A Look at Controversey behind Mammootty Speech

Mammootty's speech at an event declaring Kerala "extreme poverty-free" on November 1, 2025, was not inherently controversial itself. Instead, the controversy stemmed from the opposition and ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers boycotting the government's entire event and its core claim, arguing that the state was not truly free from poverty and that using film stars was a political gimmick. 

Mammootty's Statements

Key Points of Mammootty's Speech

• "Only extreme poverty has been eradicated; poverty still remains": This was the central point of his speech. He noted that while the state had achieved the significant milestone of eliminating extreme poverty, the larger problem of general poverty had yet to be fully addressed, placing a greater responsibility on the Chief Minister and the government.
• True development is not just infrastructure: Mammootty stressed that development is not merely about constructing "highways and large buildings" but about improving social life and eradicating poverty completely. He stated that "any amount of dazzling developments will have no value before a starving stomach".
• Call for collective effort: He called for the public to stand "shoulder-to-shoulder" with the government to continue the fight against poverty, emphasizing mutual love, trust, and brotherhood as Kerala's true social wealth. 
• Nuanced Remark: In this highly charged political environment, Mammootty's statement distinguishing between "extreme poverty" and "poverty" was interpreted by some as a subtle acknowledgement of the opposition's arguments or a non-partisan stance that avoided fully endorsing the government's celebratory claims without directly criticising them. 

Overall, Mammootty's speech was widely reported as a thoughtful, responsible, and largely apolitical take on a politically contentious event, rather than a controversy caused by an inflammatory statement. 

•  

Context of the Controversy

 

The controversy was related to the event itself and the state government's declaration: 

• Opposition Boycott: The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) boycotted the event and a special Assembly session, calling the government's claim a "pure fraud" and a "publicity stunt" ahead of elections.
• ASHA Workers' Protests: ASHA workers, who were involved in identifying the impoverished families, held protests and wrote an open letter to the invited actors (Mammootty, Mohanlal, and Kamal Haasan), urging them not to attend. They argued that many ASHA workers themselves live in extreme poverty on meager daily wages (₹233) and that the state could not be called "extreme poverty-free" while they suffered.
• Expert Skepticism: Developmental economists also reportedly brushed aside the government's claims, noting a lack of a proper study to support the conclusion. 

His speech acknowledged the limitations of the declaration, which was seen by some as a subtle recognition of the protestors' concerns. In a personal note, Mammootty mentioned that he has not been active in public forums or his hometown... "But looking now, I see that in this period, a lot of astonishing development has taken place,"

The ceremony concluded with Mammootty formally receiving the extreme poverty eradication project report.

 

 

Mohanlal Daughter launch - Old Pals Missing / Balakrishna Daughter Brand Ambassador

 The release  of the film Dies Irae  starring Pranav Mohanlal and the debut project of Vismaya Mohanlal, titled Thudakkam, coincided as a "double delight" for the Mohanlal family. Dies Irae, a Malayalam psychological horror film directed by Rahul Sadasivan and starring Pranav Mohanlal (Vismaya's brother), was released on October 31, 2025, with paid premieres starting on October 30, 2025. The pooja ceremony (inauguration) for Vismaya Mohanlal's acting debut film, Thudakkam (meaning 'Beginning'), was held on October 30, 2025. The joint timing of these two events made it an auspicious and special day for the family and the Malayalam film industry. Vismaya's father, the legendary actor Mohanlal, expressed his joy and noted the synchronicity of the events, describing the sequence of events in his life as a "vismayam" (wonder). 

For one the function was devoid of the guys who helped Lal take his baby steps in filmdom like Suresh Kumar who sounded the first clap and to first film Producer onwards. Most of them or rather  all of them absent ,come from Thiruvanthapuram the home town of Lal. Due to this ,nostalgia was kept minimal in speeches. Most of the guys who came on stage ranged from family Doctor to some old war horses. It looked more like a family function of Lal and his Man Friday Antony. Family Doctor to many such family friends spoke at the function. This resulted in nobody going overboard and praising Vismaya as God’s Gift to Indian cinema. What mom Suchithra spoke was straight from the heart. From what I heard Antony heads a section of a Kerala filmdom and those not well disposed to him did not turn up. The surprise was Joshiy the veteran Director to light the inaugural lamp. Joshy and Mammootty had a better bond than with Lal.

Jude has visualized an action film with Vismaya who took a course in martial arts in Thai. Now best part is that Pranav’s Dies Irae has opened to rave reviews. It is called Mollywood answer to Hollywood in horror genre. Yet another Lokah in the making at box office

Natasimham Nandamuri Balakrishna continues to mesmerize audiences not just on the big screen but even through his ad appearances. Now, his daughter M. Tejaswini Nandamuri has made a graceful and powerful debut as the brand ambassador for Siddhartha Fine Jewellers. Tejaswini, wife of Vizag MP Mathukumilli Sree Bharat, has already been an integral part of the production team for Balakrishna’s recent films. In this ad, she shines with stunning elegance, poised screen presence, and captivating dance moves, leaving a strong impression. The ad features music by S. Thaman and is directed by Yamuna Kishore. The brand’s creative directors Nagini Prasad Vemuri, Sreemani Mathukumilli, and Sreedurga Katragadda made a perfect choice in selecting Tejaswini to represent their premium label. Carrying forward the legacy of her legendary grandfather, Natasarvabhouma Nandamuri Taraka Ramarao, Tejaswini proved she can dazzle in front of the camera just as effortlessly as she manages things behind the scenes.

Rajini- Kamal Kids on Dad combo/Drishyam 3 Hindi v/s Malayalam/ Shobana Threat to Producer

Soundarya Rajinikanth said, “Appa (Rajini) is going to act in a film produced by Kamal uncle’s banner. What is that film about? All those details are currently work in progress. They will be revealed at the right time by Thalaivar himself.” Shruti Hassan who shared the dais along with Soundarya Rajinikanth said, “We have also dreamt of seeing them together. We are waiting like everyone for that one film. Among Rajini sir’s movies, my all time favourite is Padayappa (Narasimha). I enjoyed working with him.” Two biggest stalwarts of Tamil cinema, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are set to star in a film very soon. Though it isn’t known who will direct this mega multi-starrer, the hype is already skyhigh. During an award function, Rajini’s daughter Soundarya Rajinikanth opened about this prestigious project. Highlights from their appearance: • A joint appearance: The duo was present at the award ceremony to represent their respective film families. • Confirmation of a project: Soundarya confirmed that her father, Rajinikanth, will indeed be acting in a film produced by Kamal Haasan's banner, Raaj Kamal Films International. • Eager anticipation: Shruti expressed that, like the fans, she and Soundarya are also eagerly waiting to see their fathers collaborate on-screen again. • Details pending: Soundarya stated that further details, such as the director and plot, are still "a work in progress" and will be revealed by Rajinikanth himself at the appropriate time. • Mutual respect: The two star kids also spoke about the long-standing bond and mutual respect between their families.

Drishyam 3 the Hindi film starring Ajay devgan is coming out as scheduled on October 2 2026. There was reports that Paresh Rawal close friend of Director Priyadarshan has signed thhe third sequel. Th Malayalamfilm third part makers have got issues with the Hindi version. Paresh Rawal said that he read the script and it was excellent but somehow it did not excite him as far his role was concerned. Meanwhile, on the Malayalam side, Drishyam 3 is already in motion. Mohanlal began shooting for the crime drama on September 22, with the official announcement following shortly after. In contrast, Ajay Devgn’s Hindi adaptation—helmed by Abhishek Pathak—is expected to go on floors only in December. After Mohanlal’s update, the Hindi team quickly announced an October 2, 2026 release date for their version. According to insiders, this sudden date reveal did not sit well with the Malayalam producers, prompting them to enforce the adaptation clause. Adding another layer to the friction is the directorial choice. Originally, the vision was to have all three versions—Malayalam, Hindi, and Telugu (with Venkatesh)—directed by Jeethu Joseph, with a simultaneous global release planned for October 2, 2026. But with the blockbuster success of Abhishek Pathak’s Drishyam 2 (2022), producer Kumar Mangat reportedly pushed for his son to direct the Hindi threequel, breaking away from the earlier plan. This decision is believed to have created creative differences, leading Antony and Jeethu to focus on ensuring the Malayalam film hits the screens before its Hindi counterpart.

It has come to light that Shobana’s threatened that if she did not dub for Jridyapoorvam would lead to her boycotting all promotions of the film. This led to the film release delay as the entire portions already dubbed by voice artist Bhagyalaksshmi had to be removed. Shobana dubbed in her own voice for Hridyapoorvam as she was playing a Tamilan lady. Shobana who has spend her childhood and schooling in Chennai is well conversant with Tamil and she insisted on dubbing it herself. Everything is fine but only that dubbing voice artist Bhagyalakshmi a veteran and a regular for Shobana had already dubbed for her. The voice artist revealed that without asking her, her voice was removed and actress voice used. In fact Bhagyalakshmi had pointed out that Shobana is fluent in Tamil but Director Tharun Moorthy insisted on her dubbing. The climax portions where the character yells and rants was Bhagyalakshmi vouce as only seasoned voice artist can do it, At least Shobana could have the courtesy to tell me.T. She said that she saw in interviews of Moorthy that Shobana had given her own voice as a plus for the film. In case of Manichithrathazhu ( Chandramukhi in Tamil)the Fazil film starring Lal and Shobana, the Tamil dialogues said was credited to Bhagyalakshmi. Later Fazil cleared the air by saying that the Tamil dialogues was dubbed by voice artist Durga based in Chennai. Surga wife of Director- Actor R Sunderajan is a prominent dubbing artist who has lent her voice to numerous leading actresses in Tamil films, including Nadia Moidu and Shobana. She has also worked in the Telugu and Malayalam film industries. Durga is second wife Sunderajan. His first wife Saraswathi is still alive and one of their son Deepak is a Film Director.

Mohanlal Re- Release Scares New Releases

Mohanlal rerelease film Ravanaprabhu broke the recorf set by his earlier re- release film Spadikam. Lalettan fans feel that a promo put out by Actor Sharafudheen for the film Pet Detective produced by him and also plays the lead is everty way right. In the promo, the actor calls Producer Antony of Ashiwaad Cinemas and in turn he passes it on to Lalettan. Sharafudheen, tells that he has invested all his money in a film 'Pet Detective' on the 10th, and requests Lal to withdraw Ravanaprabhu re- release pm the same date. He says that he cannot tackle a Mohanlal film on same date. Lal replies with a dialogue from the film- "This is a game I am playing only to win and abruptly cuts the call with the line "Okay mone, line cut line cut" ( he uses to break up a conversation in BiggBoss Malaylam that he hosts). The promo ends with Sharafudheen asking to change the release date of 'Pet Detective' to October 16. Now Mohanlal starrer Vrusshabha is scheduled to be released on 6 November 2025. Though Nivin Pauly is lead in Premam, Sharaf U Dheen's biggest hit is widely considered to be the 2015 blockbuster, Premam, where his role as Girirajan Kozhi earned him widespread recognition. While Premam was his breakthrough, other commercially successful and critically acclaimed films also stand out in his career: • Anjaam Pathiraa (2020): This crime thriller was a major commercial and critical success. • Varathan (2018): Sharaf U Dheen received significant acclaim and an award for his performance in a negative role in this film. • Happy Wedding (2016): A commercially successful comedy where his comic performance was particularly noted.

Ravanaprabhu re-release earned around 1.9 lakh. On the opening day, it opened at 71 lakh, followed by an estimated 73 lakh. On day 3, it jumped again and earned an estimated 80 lakh. Overall, the film earned around 2.26 crore gross at the Kerala box office in the opening weekend. With 2.26 crore gross in the kitty, Ravanaprabhu re-release surpassed the 3-day gross of Spadikam in Kerala. For those who don’t know, Spadikam re-release earned an estimated 1.46 crore gross during the first three days. So, if a comparison is made, Mohanlal‘s latest re-release has earned 18.14% higher collection than Spadikam. Vasuundhara Das the singer turned actress was to quit films after doing Citizen with Ajith. Director Ranjith offered her a role of a bold girl in Rvanaprabhu and on first day gave her a shorts- T Shirt and backpack and told her to run for the song Pottukuthedi’ shot for 4 days. It felt like I had reached a place where people consciously thought about bringing their artistic talents to the film,' said Vasundhara

Post Empuran Mohanal Award a Shocker to Kerala BJP

 I had expected Dharmendra to get the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Reason being son Sunny Deol ex BJP MP from Gurudaspur. They threw a google that bowled me out. BJP in Kerala might claim credit for Giving Mohanlal the Dadasaheb Phalke Award but rank and file and those not committed to any politics, it has come as a shocker. Mohanlal starrer Empuran also produced by him was attacked severely by BJP and seen as a anti Hindutva film. In fact , Lal apologized for hurting the sentiments. Even his BJP friends like Major Ravi took potshots against him. The birthday of PM Modi saw Lal among the few from Kerala filmdom sending greetings. The award had seen people like Mithun Chakraborty who joined BJP and next getting this honour. Actors like Asha Parekh, Waheeda Rahman, Shashi Kapoor and Manoj Kumar who are single dimensional actors getting this honour was seen amusing to film buffs.

Shift to giving this honour  reserved for people who are retired- semi retired and definitely not a contender at box office. Started with Rajinikanth who has openly stated that he was never aiming for artistic excellence in short awards but box office appeal getting the Dadasaheb Phalke was seen purely as a gift from political bosses. BJP that controls the Information Ministry has for second time in its history repeated it by giving  Mohanlal the Dadasaheb Phalke Award  , whose box office rating is currently  is the Rs 200 crore club. Here however we are not talking behind the back like in case of Rajinikanth about his BJP links .  He has on many time got the national award and many times he missed it by a whisker. He had invested in films like Vanaprasatham.

The film premiered at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival on 21 May 1999, where it was selected in the Un Certain Regard section, and was theatrically released in France on 13 October 1999 and in India in January 2000. The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the American Film Institute's 1999 AFI Fest (Los Angeles International Film Festival). It won the Special Prize of the Jury at the Istanbul International Film Festival and the FIPRESCI prize at the Mumbai International Film Festival. The film won three awards at the 47th National Film Awards —Best Feature Film, Best Actor (Mohanlal), and Best Editing (A. Sreekar Prasad), and six awards at the 1999 Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Director and Best Actor (Mohanlal). In 2014, Vanaprastham was screened retrospective at the 45th International Film Festival of India in the Celebrating Dance in Indian cinema section.

Adoor Gopalkrishnan the first from Kerala to enter the hall of fame and now Mohanlal. We hear voices like Why Madhu was over looked ? Is Madhu as multi dimensional as Lal ? Anyway as Lal says about Empuran attack by BJP , lets talk about present amd not about past or future. Quite right to put Emiran in the back burner. However Mammooty with only a Padma Shri and a string of national award cannot be in BJP wishlist as he is a a CPM man.

Naslen- Kalyani Leads over Mohanlal / Only one says Pradeep / Mirna Menon with Lokesh

 Coming to the first superheroine movie, Lokah, it opens with blockbuster WOM and reviews. With such huge positive talk alongside the advantage of being a franchise film, Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Lokah surpasses Mohanlal’s movie.

Hridayapooravam is a family genre, and Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra took a very big lead from the evening shows on the first day. 

With Mohanlal’s stardom, Hridayapooravam opens bigger than Lokah on the first day, but today, which is the second day of both films, Lokah takes a clear lead, and it is trending over double of Mohanlal’s film.

The same trend is likely to continue in the coming days, which means Hridayapooravam might emerge as a decent success, whereas Lokah will be heading for a massive blockbuster run. Dulquer Salmaan is being appreciated for producing this female centric superhero film. Many have praised Kalyani Priyadarshan for her performance, calling it stunning and powerful, adding to the film’s growing reputation among Malayalam and pan-Indian audiences. Trade experts believe Lokah is a true pan-Indian film from Malayalam cinema, even without big stars. If the film performs well at the box office, it could inspire other industries to shape small-budget pan-Indian movies with strong storytelling. Though Lokah did not open big, the positive word of mouth is now driving ticket bookings upward. All eyes are on how it performs in the coming days and whether it sets new records in collections across India.

Director Lokesh Kanagaraj is all set to make his debut as a lead hero with a film directed by Arun Matheswaran. The latest news is that he pairs up with Mirna Menon.

The film’s pre-production work is going on currently, and it is being said that the team is discussing with Mirna Menon to pair up against Lokesh Kanagaraj in this action drama. She was previously seen in Jailer as Rajinikanth’s daughter-in-law.

Produced by Sun Pictures, this film will go on floors this year-end, and the Kaithi director also took part in some training to play a lead hero. 

As said above, it is an action film, and Lokesh will be excited to show up on screen as a lead hero and enthrall his fans, who are disappointed with his recent directorial, Coolie, starring Rajinikanth.

Pradeep Ranganathan’s upcoming two films, LIK and Dude, have been announced for Diwali release, and there was a report that both films will arrive on the same day. But Pradeep Ranganathan confirms that only one film will be released this Diwali.

A few days ago, both films’ teams started promotions with the festival release tag. Lately the LIK (Love Insurance Kompany) team released a teaser, and Dude released its first single.

With this, audiences expected that they would witness a surprise clash on Diwali, as both films feature the same hero. But Pradeep Ranganathan officially confirms that only one film will arrive this Diwali. LIK, as per the plan, has to release first, but due to some financial issues, the movie’s progress was delayed. Now, if they are able to sort the issues, then it will be the only film that is likely to arrive for Diwali, or else Dude will be released in its place.

there were huge expectations on Sai Abhyankkar  young music director, and his 1st single is out now, i.e., Pradeep Ranganathan’s Dude in both Telugu and Tamil. But the song failed to reach the expectations, as the listeners did not like it and felt that the music, visuals, lyrics, and vocals were completely out of sync. The majority opinion is that the song is a big mess. 

Mohanlal gets snubbed by Aryan In BiggBoss Malayalam - Show gets TOXIC

 Three weeks down, Bigg Boss 7 Malayalam has hit a new low. The host Mohanlal has been royally snubbed by a contestant Aryan Kathuria. Aryan Kathuria is  actor and model known for his  roles in movies like "1983," "Ormakalil," and "Falimy," and for being part  in over 50 national advertisements. A Punjabi from Malappuram, Aryan  yesterday at the weekly interaction with host Mohanlal given a hat to wear as part of the game and a punishment He made a dig at Lal by asking a tongue in cheek comment- Should I wear it while taking a bath ?. Lal was quick to notice it and retorted Are you trying to pull my leg ? , Aryan continued with- Should I it  be worn while sleeping ?.  He has been directly nominated for eviction but he seems to be at his toxic best. He has openly termed Lal as being partial and stated that if he were to go, it would do him no harm. He has claimed that his family owns resorts in Kerala.

Aryan who was Captain of the House in last week is part of the majority of cpntrdtants who give scant regard to Bigg Boss dictates and have a free run in the house. The start of disregard has now reached the show hosted by Mahanlal. The most toxic elements in the House at the weekend with Host turn timid. In earlier seasons, Lal was a soft Host compared to counterparts Kamal Haasan- Vijaysethupathi- Nagarjuna- Kiccha Sudeep. However this season, promos promised a tough Lal and clas in the attire from Thudarum. The promo even took a dig at the soft Lal along with other contestants who use tricks to stay on in the show. The only difference is that Lal does some tough talking but the other end – contestants seem to have no fear of it. Om a Tamil BB OTT edition hosted by STR, a contestant got into a tiff with him and in following weeks, she got badly mauled by STR fans oon social media. In fact she later realised that what it would be outside, apoligized and STR had to promise that she would face no wrath. Another errant housemate is Gizel Thakural= a Malayalali with mixed parentage and an actress – model in Bollywood. She is a constant offender who disobeys BB dictates. She gets several last warnings but is not shown the door as she is only one with curves inside.

Why Coolie Poster used IMAX Logo ? BENZ Laleetan Conforms BIGGBOSS Malayalam 7

 

Coolie makers have got nod to screen the non IMAX version in IMAX screen   in Chennai -two screens offered in Phoenix and Nexus Malls IMAX in chennai are digital IMAX not true IMAX. Coimbatore IMAX too is on the list. Apart from this Coolie will not screen in any IMAX screens across India and that includes Prasad Multiplexes IMAX. As Coolie is not Filmed for IMAX’ it cannot advertise so and only say watch it in IMAX. In contrast WAR 2 releasing along with Coolie is filmed in IMAX amd will carry on posters Experience in IMAX.

This explanation comes after a section of media went to town about Coolie makers having violated IMAX conditions and putting in on the poster featuring Aamir the lone watch it on IMAX and along with it other formats D-Box and 4DX that will screened. WAR2 IMAX only posters will feature that the film has been shot it is shot in IMAX.

Aa per reports in Bollywood Hungama, “It is common knowledge that War 2 and Coolie are releasing on the same day, August 14, and the former has inked an exclusive deal with IMAX. As per this deal, no other Indian film will be played in the IMAX version in India and key properties across the world during that period. Hence, the IMAX mention is shocking because Coolie’s IMAX release hasn’t been approved by the IMAX Corporation. And yet, they have gone ahead and prominently displayed the IMAX logo on the posters.”

Colie was at first to be shot in IMAX and read our story quting the cameraman. https://southfilmy.blogspot.com/2023/10/lokesh-rajini-film-on-imax-camera-leo.html

After much anticipation, the makers of television's much-loved reality TV show Bigg Boss 7 have finally announced the return of Malayalam superstar Mohanlal as host. The makers have just dropped a power-packed teaser and confirmed that the Thudarum star will be returning to the show as host for BB 7. Interestingly, Bigg Boss 7's casting is officially underway.

The short teaser opens with Mohanlal riding a bike into a rugged garage setting — a combination that has fans cheering already. The bike's number plate boldly reads BB 7, with his wristwatch also displaying the same. Dressed in his signature black shirt and mundu, Mohanlal channels pure charisma and intensity. Mohanlal, donning his signature swag and dressed to kill in a standout ‘benz’ costume

Drishyam 3 same acript in all Languages says Director/ Kerala Censor revenge for Empuran fiasco

 

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Drishyam 3 director Jeethu Joseph confirms that the Hindi, Malayalam, and Telugu versions will follow the same script, with adaptations for cultural context. Ajay Devgn, Mohanlal and Venkatesh return to lead their respective versions. A simultaneous release in 2026 is being discussed.

In an interview with ETimes, the director said, "The script of the third film is nearing completion. There have been reports that the Hindi version will have a different story, but that's not true. The Hindi film will also be based on my story. Once I complete my script, it will be shared with the Hindi team, who will then adapt it to suit their setting and make suitable cultural changes."

There’s also growing interest in whether the Malayalam, Hindi, and Telugu versions will be filmed simultaneously. While the director said that it's too early to confirm parallel shoots due to actors' availability, with Mohanlal, Ajay Devgn, and Venkatesh leading the Malayalam, Hindi, and Telugu versions, respectively. The team is seriously considering a simultaneous release.

Joseph added, "There was a request from their side for a simultaneous release. So, we have been discussing the prospect of releasing the films simultaneously, not just the Malayalam and Hindi versions, but the Telugu one as well. In this OTT age, they feel that releasing on different dates might reduce the film’s impact in the other languages."

'Drishyam (2013) showed how Mohanlal’s character Georgekutty tried to protect his family after an accidental death in self-defence. In the second part, which came out on OTT in 2021, trouble increases when a new witness comes forward. The story of the third part is still being kept a secret

Kerala CBFC has done it again. After goofing with L 2 Empuran, the board that gave a +13 certoficate to Janaki v.s Kerala State and with Union Minister Suresh Gopi in the lead has now withdrawn the certificate and that too with days to go for release. Read on.

According to Onmanorama, the film passed CBFC certification without a single cut and was even praised, at least according to that report.

Although the CBFC had no issues with the content of the film, it raised one major concern. The CBFC has prevented the release of the film due to its title and the name of its titular character, Janaki.

The General Secretary of the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA), B. Unnikrishnan, confirmed that the directive was delivered orally. He mentioned that the request was too strange to be put into writing as an official order. According to him, the exact reason the CBFC objects to the name “Janaki” is that the character is portrayed as an abuse victim, and Janaki is an alternative name for Goddess Sita. He communicated this to Onmanorama.

One of the lead roles in the film is played by Union Minister Suresh Gopi. According to Kerala Kaumudi, he directly intervened in the matter, but his efforts did not bear any fruit. In 96 places, Suresh Gopi says Janaki in the film and CBFC wants it removed along with it the title changed. Why did CBFC take a late reaction and that too after release date fixed ? Was it to embrass Suresh Gopi and show that guidelines are so stupid and does not spare a Union Minister ? A revenge for Regional Officer being in the dock over L 2 Empiran ?

Ajith Kumar post GBU Hit in Belgium Race / Empuran end India race as Loser

A week after the release of his Tamil film Good Bad Ugly, actor Ajith Kumar has reached the Circuit De Spa in Belgium. He is gearing up for the GT4 series and will be preparing to intensify his preparations for the upcoming races, that are bound to test the endurance levels of drivers. On Wednesday, the actor’s racing team, Ajith Kumar Racing, took to its X timeline to post a video clip of the actor on the trackside, watching race cars zoom past and wrote, “Ajith Kumar, trackside today at Circuit de Spa, Belgium. Soaking in the atmosphere, gearing up for the endurance challenge ahead.”

The GT4 series is a premier sports car championship featuring GT4-spec vehicles competing across Europe's renowned circuits. The series emphasizes cost-effective racing and serves as a platform for amateur drivers. It includes multiple classes, such as Silver, Pro-Am, and Am, to accommodate varying driver experience levels.

Ajith has a long list of racing events this year. The actor is to participate in the race in Zandvoort circuit, which is to be held between May 16-18. The actor will again be seen in action between June 26 and 29 at the Spa circuit and between July 18 and 20 at the Misano circuit. In August this year, Ajith is to race at the Nurburgring circuit before finally rounding off the season at Barcelona, the race at which is to be held between October 10 and 12.

About Ajith Kumar's racing team

Ajith’s racing team has done the country proud ever since the actor announced its formation. Earlier this year, the team emerged third in the 991 category of the 24H Dubai 2025 event. It followed it up with another third place in the intensely contested 12H Mugello car racing event in Italy.

For the uninitiated, Ajith is not only racing but is also the owner of the team Ajith Kumar Racing. Ajith's other teammates who participate with him in races are Mathieu Detry, Fabian Duffieux and Cameron McLeod. Ajith’s team has roped in Bas Koeten Racing as its technical and logistical partner.

Overall, L2: Empuraan earned 105.11 crore net at the Indian box office, as per Sacnilk. This collection is a blockbuster sum for a Malayalam film, but considering the film’s exorbitant price tag, it’s not up to the mark. Reportedly, L2: Empuraan was made on a massive budget of 180 crores. Against this cost, 105.11 crores have been collected. So, the biggie has recovered 58.39% of the total cost and still needs to earn 74.89 crores to enter the safe zone. . In India, after the 1st weekend, the film did not see big numbers. Everyone expected it would be the 1st 100 Cr grosser for Kerala, and even they thought it would open the 150 Cr club and many more milestones, but L2 Empuraan did not match the expectations that was created by Empuran team.

 

Jason Sanjay hero film bombs / Suriya - Lal clash in Kerala / March 7th OTT clash of Blockbusters

Jason Sanjay’s first directorial film’s hero Sundeep Kishan film Mazaka in Telugu flopped badly. After the flop of “Mazaka,” Sundeep Kishan will struggle to land more movies. He is acting in two web series, though. He will play a key role in “The Family Man 3” (Amazon Prime) and “Subbu” (Netflix).

After 10 years, Mohanlal and Suriya will clash at the Kerala box office. Lal’s Thudarum is set for May1 release and so is Retro of Suriya. After Vijay, Suriya has most fans in Kerala. In 2014, Lal’s Peruchazhi and Suriya’s Anjaan clashed but it was Prithviraj Saptamashri Thaskara that released along with it that won. Lal and Suriya together worked in Kappan but it did only average box office in Kerala.

March 7 OTT clash of Blockbusters and April Box office Fire Kudumbasthan On Zee 5 With Good Night and Lover, Manikandan created his mark for Telugu audiences as well. His films are working pretty well on OTTs. His latest film, Kudumbasthan, is a family entertainer and his biggest blockbuster at the Box office, collecting more than 25 Cr gross in Tamil Nadu. Thandel On Netflix Thandel is the biggest blockbuster in Naga Chaitanya’s career and will be up for streaming from 7th March in all languages. Co-starring Sai Pallavi, the film performed exceptionally well in Telugu. While it couldn’t replicate the same success in other language Rekha Chithram On Sony Liv There is a huge demand for Malayalam thrillers on OTT platforms, and the audience will soon get to experience another epic thriller. Asif Ali’s Rekha Chirthram is being lauded as one of the best investigation thrillers in recent times, and it emerged as a sensational blockbuster at the box office by collecting around 60 Cr gross worldwide. Laila, Vishwak Sen’s latest film, was released on this Valentine’s Day, and it ended up as a big failure, The film is set to stream on 7th March on Aha. Chhaava OTT streaming details are out, as the sensational blockbuster is arriving on Netflix on 11th April in all languages. Dragon will be Streaming from March 28th in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam & Kannada on Netflix. The sensational blockbuster is still going strong in theatres and has collected around 120 Cr till now. Akhil in the lead role and the film and with Mammootty , directed by Surender Reddy, is arriving on OTT. The film will be available for streaming from 14th March, according to the official announcement of Sony Liv.

KOLLYWOOD SUMMER 2025 WILL BE ON FIRE April 10 - Good Bad Ugly and Idly Kadai ( AK and Dhanush) April 21 - Gangers (Sundar C - Vadivelu) May 1 – Retro ( Suriya- Subburaj) May 16 - DD Next Level ( Santhanam) June 5 - Thug Life (Kamal Haasan- Mani) June 20 – Kubera (Dhanush)

Keerthy Suresh gets dragged into Dad's v/s Mohanlal Producer war / Vidamuyurchi Netflix date out

Keerthy Suresh has been dragged into the war between her Dad Suresh Kumar and Producer Antony Perumbavoor over the budget leak about forthcoming film Empuran The Malayalam film starring Mohanlal and directed by Prithviraj. Suresh who is vice president of Kerala Producers association had stated that among many things, increasing renumeration of actors as a reason for production costs increasing and films failing to make the box office cut. As a counter right from Vinakayan Jailor villain to TV star turned supporting actor Jayan Cherthala has pointed that Suresh should rein in his daughter who is taking crores for a film. Keerthy has acted in few Malayalam films and the last was Vaashi opposite Tovino that was produced by her father. The film though a dud at theatre release made a profit by OTT rights as Keerthy and Tovino post Minnal Murali were known outside Kerala and hence got a good price. Even in Tamil – Telugu and in Bollywood ( Baby John ) , she never got paid in crores for a film , even it it was opposite big names like Thalapathy Vijay and Sivakarthikeyan .

With Antony the Producer of Empuran going full blast at Suresh for revealing the budget , latest controversy is that in an interview to Kaumudi Movies, Keerthy’s Dad mentioned that he avoids shooting in Kochi locales as the `culture’ does not suit him. Many on Reddit have slammed him for this. Suresh declined to elaborate on this Kochi culture. Kerala Producers Association has stood by Suresh while Actors body AMMA has backed Antony Petumbavoor. Mohanlal and Suresh are Thiruvanthapuram based and were schoolmates. Suresh was Mohanlal’s first Producer.Both maintain cordial relationship but this time they are on opposite sides. Many have asked Keerthy to rein in her Dad who like a bull in a China shop is raging every day. Mohanlal shared Antony’s FB post criticizing Suresh and commented Lets us be with Cinema. Film Exhibitors Federation chairman and producer Liberty Basheer denounced the unilateral decision by the producers' association to not screen films from June 1

Ajith Kumar's Vidaamuyarchi hit the big screens on February 5. Vidaamuyarchi is expected to debut on Netflix on March 7, 2025 ..

Mohanlal Directorial debut faces BIG Threat / Next with Blessy /

 Mohanlal first Directorial venture Barroz which is a fantasy animation film in 3D faces stiff opposition from heavy duty action films Marcos of Unni Mukundan and Ashiq Abu's Rifle Club. In fact Marcos is the biggest threat as it was released yesterday and box office numbers are jumping every day and that too in crores. Marcos is the fourth-best opening of the year 2024 after Aadujeevitham, Turbo, and Malaikottai Vaaliban. It has surpassed Prithviraj Sukumaran’s Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil and Fahadh Faasil‘s Aavesham at the box office. Barroz releases on December 25th and by then Marcos fever would have gripped the Kerala box office. As Lal ettan is not playing any character that is star material, except for his fans, the opening would be average. Lal said that when he teamed with Santosh Sivan - Iruvar, Kalapani and Vanaparasatham, Sivan got awards. He failed to mention that all these films were flops. Read what Santosh Sian has to say about Barroz - https://southfilmy.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-minus-of-barroz-is-hawa-hawai-song.html. The Hindi dubbed is releasing on December 27th.

We hear that Lal has signed a film with Director Blessy, It will start in 2026 only. Based on writer Iran Muhamed the film has screenplay by Shankar Ramakrishnan. Previous outings from the combo were Thanmatra , Brahmaram, Pranayam. Ashirwaad and Fragrant Nature Films are producers.

While we are on the Malayalam films , The highest-grossing Malayalam film of 2024 was Manjummel Boys, with a collection of 241.56 crore worldwide. The survival drama earned a total of 142 crore in India.

Malayalam Film Industry in 2024, a blockbuster with Manjummel Boys and three superhits with Premalu, Vaazha: Biopic of a Billion Boys, and Kishkindha Kaandam. There were four hits with Abraham Ozler, Thalavan, Ajayante Randam Moshanam, and Sookshmadarshini. A lot of films recovered their budgets and were successful. These included Anweshippin Kandethum, Bramayugam, Aadujeevitham, Varshangallku Shesham, Aavesham, Guruavayoor Ambalanadayil, and Pani.

Here are the most profitable Malayalam Films Of 2024. 

1. Premalu: 745.5%
2. Manjummel Boys: 610%
3. Kishkindha Kaandam: 493.5%
4. Vaazha: 369.2%
5. Sookshmadarshini: 179.2%
6. Thalavan: 135%
7. ARM: 113.33%
8. Abraham Ozler: 110%