The Malayalam film industry is abuzz with discussions surrounding megastar Mammootty's latest and arguably most daring cinematic choice. His portrayal of a chilling villain in the crime drama 'Kalamkaval' has not only left audiences stunned but has also drawn high praise from fellow actors across industries. The film, which continues its strong run in theatres, is being celebrated for its narrative boldness and the veteran actor's fearless performance.
Dhruv Vikram's Heartfelt Admiration for Mammootty
Adding a significant voice to the chorus of appreciation is young Tamil actor Dhruv Vikram. Speaking at The Hollywood Reporter India roundtable, Vikram revealed that 'Kalamkaval' was the last film he watched in a theatre, and he was thoroughly impressed. He expressed his amazement at Mammootty's commanding screen presence, stating that the veteran actor single-handedly carries the entire film on his shoulders.
Dhruv emphasized the rarity and excitement of seeing a superstar of Mammootty's stature willingly embrace such a dark and complex character. "It is not a role many actors would be ready to do," he remarked, highlighting the unconventional nature of the part. He further praised Mammootty's courage in making tough career decisions, noting that it is fascinating to watch a top star accept a risky character and commit to it fully. According to Dhruv Vikram, it is these bold choices that truly set Mammootty apart from his contemporaries.
Director Basil Joseph Reveals the Behind-the-Scenes Decision
Director Basil Joseph, who was part of the same discussion, unveiled a crucial behind-the-scenes detail that makes Mammootty's choice even more remarkable. Joseph disclosed that in the initial story narration, the character played by Mammootty was presented as the hero's role. However, in a surprising twist, Mammootty himself chose to play the negative character—a psychopathic serial killer.
Basil Joseph confirmed that actor Vinayakan plays the hero in the film. He explained why Mammootty's role has become a major talking point and a shock to many fans. The director stated that the idea of a beloved superstar like Mammootty playing a serial killer who commits extremely brutal murders is something audiences would never expect. "This character does not turn positive at the end. He is completely negative," Joseph clarified, underscoring the uncompromising darkness of the role.
Strong Box Office Performance Amidst Praise
The film's compelling narrative and Mammootty's powerhouse performance are translating into solid commercial success. 'Kalamkaval' is performing decently at the box office, maintaining a steady collection even in its third week. According to a report from the Sacnilk website, the Mammootty-starrer collected an estimated Rs 54 lakhs on its 13th day, demonstrating strong audience pull and sustained interest.
The combination of critical acclaim, peer admiration, and commercial viability proves that Mammootty's risky gamble has paid off. 'Kalamkaval' stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where stars are increasingly willing to subvert their heroic images for the sake of powerful storytelling and character-driven narratives.
