In a major collaboration for Malayalam cinema, Mohanlal is teaming up with director Dileesh Pothan for the first time, bringing together one of the industry’s biggest stars with one of its most acclaimed contemporary filmmakers. The film, scripted by Syam Pushkaran and produced by Antony Perumbavoor under Aashirvad Cinemas, is expected to go on floors by mid-2026. Industry sources describe it as an action–fantasy drama, with an official reveal anticipated soon.

The project marks a new chapter in Pothan’s career. Known for his realistic storytelling in films such as Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum and Joji, the director will be helming a full-fledged superstar film for the first time — a collaboration fans have waited for over a decade.

Mohanlal, meanwhile, has been juggling a packed slate. He recently completed cameo appearances in Kathanar and Khalifa before travelling to Sydney for a private visit. Upon his return, he will step into director Tharun Murthy’s upcoming film, which begins shooting on January 23 in Thodupuzha. Meera Jasmine plays the female lead, marking another notable onscreen pairing this year. The cast also features Bhama, Binu Pappu and Ishad.

The team behind Murthy’s film held a script pooja at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple on Friday. The film is produced by Ashiq Usman under the Ashiq Usman Productions banner, written by Ratheesh Ravi and shot by cinematographer Shaji Kumar.

With two major projects moving in parallel and the long-awaited Pothan–Pushkaran–Mohanlal collaboration finally materialising, 2024 is shaping up to be a significant year for Malayalam cinema.