Malayalam film icons Mohanlal and Mammootty are set to reunite after an 18-year hiatus in their forthcoming spy thriller, titled “Patriot.” The two actors, who have maintained a close friendship for over 40 years and collaborated on more than 50 films, recently discussed their reunion during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India.
When asked about the experience of working with Mohanlal again after nearly two decades, Mammootty remarked that the shoot felt quite ordinary. “The first shot was filmed in Sri Lanka, and we quickly found our rhythm. We have never let stardom dictate our relationship; we are simply friends, almost like family,” he explained. “There’s no sense of rivalry or competition between us.”
Mammootty also shared that their friendship extends to a practical level, as they occasionally swap managers based on their respective needs. He noted, “On my first day, I was accompanied by Mohanlal’s manager because mine was busy assisting him in Sri Lanka. This sort of exchange is quite normal for us.”
In discussing their differing approaches to acting, Mammootty highlighted Mohanlal’s spontaneous style. “He is very much an actor of the moment,” he stated. “For me, acting is a more deliberate process. While there’s no specific methodology to it, I don’t adhere to a particular technique. Each actor has their own approach. Personally, I find that the pressure of the camera elevates my heart rate; it’s part of the experience.”
During a separate interview in 2024 with Mohanlal, Suhasini Maniratnam recounted an incident that illustrated the strength of their bond. She recalled how her husband, filmmaker Maniratnam, was taken aback when he witnessed Mammootty treating Mohanlal’s son, Pranav, with such affection. “When Mani visited Mammootty’s home in Chennai, he saw Mammootty chase a boy away with a stick. When he inquired, Mammootty replied, ‘That’s Pranav, Mohanlal’s son,’ which left Mani astonished at the warmth Mammootty showed towards him,” she shared.
Noteworthy collaborations between Mammootty and Mohanlal include films such as “Harikrishnans,” “Twenty:20,” “Narasimham,” “Athirathram,” and “Padayottam,” among others. Their early projects also featured joint appearances in “Oothikachiya Ponnu” and “Ahimsa,” both released in 1981.
“Patriot” marks the long-awaited return of Mammootty and Mohanlal to the big screen together after nearly two decades. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, this spy action drama unfolds against a backdrop of a high-stakes intelligence operation.
The plot follows a retired JAG officer, portrayed by Mammootty, who finds himself falsely accused of espionage. In an effort to clear his name and safeguard national security, he must embark on a covert mission, with Mohanlal’s character joining him on this treacherous journey.
The film also features a talented cast, including Nayanthara, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Rajeev Menon, and Revathi, with music and score provided by Sushin Shyam.
Originally slated for release on April 23, “Patriot” will now hit theaters worldwide on May 1.
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