Malayalam superstar Mammootty and his role in Kalamkaval were among the focus of discussions at The Hollywood Reporter India’s 2025 Actors Roundtable, which featured a host of new-generation actors. The talk was initiated by Dhruv Vikram, son of Tamil superstar Vikram and recently hailed for his performance in Bison Kaalamaadan. Other participants included Ishaan Khatter, Kriti Sanon, Rukmini Vasanth, Vicky Kaushal, Kalyani Priyadarshan, and Basil Joseph.

When asked which film they had most recently watched in theatres, Dhruv Vikram answered Kalamkaval starring Mammootty. He spoke at length about the superstar, noting that it was remarkable how someone of Mammootty’s stature could take on a serial killer role—a type of character most actors would hesitate to portray. Dhruv added that it was fascinating to see Mammootty make such bold creative choices.

Kalyani Priyadarshan also referenced Mammootty’s advice that writers should not base stories on him personally. Basil Joseph recalled that playing the negative role in the film was Mammootty’s idea, and revealed that it was the megastar himself who suggested someone else could play the lead.

Meanwhile, Ishaan Khatter asked Rukmini Vasanth whether she now felt confident taking on negative roles. Rukmini had previously spoken about her apprehension over portraying a negative character in Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1, which prompted Ishaan’s question. She replied firmly, “That’s Mammootty sir. I am Rukmini.”

The discussion highlighted the impact of Mammootty’s daring choices on the new generation of actors, sparking a lively exchange on taking risks and exploring unconventional roles in Indian cinema.