Entertainment Desk
Last Updated: 09 Apr 2026, 10:07 am IST
Ahead of the release of ‘Patriot’, Mammootty talks about choosing stories that challenge industry norms.
Mammootty
Mollywood legend Mammootty has shed new light on why he chose to produce his recent crime thriller ‘Kalamkaval’ through his banner, revealing that the film’s unconventional character and narrative demanded a level of risk few producers were willing to take. The film, which marked the directorial debut of Jithin K Jose, has earned strong critical praise and emerged as a commercial winner.
In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, the actor-producer explained that taking on the role of a psychopath, a stark departure from mainstream casting norms, required him to take matters into his own hands. “I started my production company to make films that I like, and which no one else are ready to make. No other producer will agree to cast me in such a role, so I produced it myself,” he said, noting his desire to constantly pursue distinct challenges as a performer.
Mammootty on pushing boundaries
Reflecting on his creative choices, the 74-year-old star emphasised the need for reinvention. “At the end of the day, I am an actor. You cannot perform the same kinds of roles a hundred times, it has to be different. Our society has 1.5 billion people… in Kerala, everybody is a character. I want to do them all, but it’s not possible.,” he added.
‘Kalamkaval’ features key performances from Vinayakan, Rajisha Vijayan, Gibin Gopinath and others. The film is backed by Mammootty Kampany, with music by Mujeeb Majeed.
Released on 5 December 2025 and later distributed to OTT (SonyLIV) after its Kerala theatrical run via Wayfarer Films, the thriller follows Stanley Das, a serial killer who targets women, and the police investigation that attempts to decode his motivations. Loosely inspired by the Cyanide Mohan case, the film blends psychological drama with procedural tension.
‘Patriot’ gears up for release
Mammootty is now preparing for the release of ‘Patriot’, directed by Mahesh Narayanan. Initially slated to arrive in cinemas on 23 April, the film has been rescheduled for a 1 May release.
The film features an ensemble of top Malayalam actors, including Mohanlal, Fahadh Faasil, Nayanthara, Kunchacko Boban, Rajiv Menon, Revathy and Darshana Rajendran. It also marks the return of Mammootty and Mohanlal on screen together after an 18-year gap.
In discussing the upcoming release, Mammootty stressed that the film’s strength lies in its story rather than its star power. “The film actually is driven by its content, you can pinpoint certain elements, but still it has a story and it has a plot. We want people to be prepared to watch this movie. We have very strong and bold female characters. This is not a film made on formula, it will be a formula-making film,” he said.
Malayalam cinema is going global
Reflecting on the evolution of the industry, Mammootty said Malayalam cinema is well-positioned to reach a worldwide audience as linguistic barriers continue to diminish. “Now that the language barrier is gone, I hope Malayalam cinema becomes international and reaches as many people as possible,” he said.
The actor recently appeared in a cameo in ‘Chatha Pacha’, with ‘Kalamkaval’ being his most recent lead role before the release of ‘Patriot’.
Published: 09 Apr 2026, 10:06 am IST
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