The much-awaited trailer of Prithviraj Sukumaran’s "Khalifa" has arrived, offering a closer look at the scale, action and revenge-driven world of Vysakh’s upcoming Malayalam film. Positioned as one of the major Onam releases, the trailer further raises expectations around what promises to be an ambitious action thriller.
Prithviraj plays Mambarakkal Aamir Ali, a character who appears to be deeply connected to a powerful criminal legacy. The story revolves around gold smuggling, family and revenge, with the trailer giving glimpses of a world where power is inherited and violence becomes a means of settling scores. The film has been described as a story involving a sprawling gold-smuggling operation extending from the Middle East to India.
The trailer primarily puts Prithviraj at the centre of the action, showcasing Aamir Ali as a stylish yet dangerous figure. There are glimpses of large-scale action blocks, confrontations and a world dominated by gangsters and rivalries.
Vysakh, known for mounting commercial entertainers on a large canvas, appears to be going all out with "Khalifa", while Jinu V. Abraham’s script seems to combine the action elements with a story centred on legacy and revenge.
One of the biggest talking points of the trailer is the presence of Mohanlal. The superstar plays Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, Aamir Ali’s grandfather, and his character is an important part of the larger Mambarakkal family saga. The film is planned as "Khalifa: Part 1", with Mohanlal’s character expected to have a more significant role in the subsequent chapter. Prithviraj during a promotional programme had said that Mohanlal’s character will surely make an impact, but it's a small role.
The ensemble cast includes Neil Nitin Mukesh, making his Malayalam debut, along with Malavika Sharma, Krithi Shetty, Indrans, Renji Panicker, Shammi Thilakan and others.
Stylish action entertainer
Visually, Khalifa promises a larger-than-life treatment, with the film travelling across locations including the Middle East and India. Jakes Bejoy’s music and background score are also expected to play a major role in enhancing the action-heavy mood, while the film’s promotional material has already established a stylish visual identity.
Khalifa has already generated considerable curiosity as it marks the reunion of Prithviraj and Vysakh, who previously worked together on Pokkiri Raja. The film is written by Jinu V. Abraham, with Jomon T. John is associated with the cinematography and Jakes Bejoy handling the music. With Khalifa scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on August 20, the film has also received a UA 16+ certification ahead of its theatrical release.
Coming during the Onam season, "Khalifa" is expected to be one of the major crowd-pullers of the festival period. With Prithviraj in a commanding lead role, Vysakh handling the action canvas and Mohanlal’s presence adding another layer of anticipation, the film now has the responsibility of delivering the kind of theatrical experience its promotional material promises.
