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Last Updated: April 05, 2025, 09:43 IST
“Empuraan” Emerges as Highest-Grossing Malayalam Film
The film “Empuraan,” helmed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and featuring Mohanlal, has officially set a new benchmark in the Malayalam film industry. By Day 9 of its release, the movie has amassed over Rs 91 crore in India and has grossed Rs 250 crore worldwide.
This remarkable success is not just due to widespread anticipation; “Empuraan” is also breaking box office records amidst various discussions and controversies. Prithviraj Sukumaran’s directorial has quickly become the highest-grossing film in its category, as reported by the trade website Sacnilk. The film generated an estimated Rs 3 crore in its second Friday, bringing its cumulative total in India to Rs 91.25 crore.
“Empuraan” had an explosive opening of Rs 21 crore upon its release on March 27 and completed its first week with an impressive Rs 88.25 crore. Although daily earnings saw a decline in the subsequent week, expectations remain high for a potential uptick in collections as the weekend approaches.
The movie, serving as the much-anticipated sequel to the 2019 blockbuster “Lucifer,” has been dominating box office charts since its debut. It not only surpassed Vicky Kaushal’s “Chhaava” during its opening weekend but has also rewritten industry records, becoming the first Malayalam film to achieve a Rs 100 crore milestone in global share. With total worldwide collections exceeding Rs 250 crore, it has outpaced “Manjummel Boys” to secure the top spot as the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time.
However, the film is not without its controversies. It presents a fictional narrative that revolves around the Gujarat riots of 2002, which has drawn criticism from various groups labeling it as “anti-national.” In response to the backlash, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) intervened, recommending the removal of several scenes. Consequently, the filmmakers agreed to make significant cuts, trimming a total of 24 scenes and modifying sequences related to the riots. Following these edits, which amounted to a reduction of 2 minutes and 8 seconds from the original, the film was granted a fresh certification.
In “Empuraan,” Mohanlal resumes his iconic role as Stephen Nedumpally, also known as Khureshi Ab’raam. Joined by Zayed, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran, he returns from abroad with a mission to confront Chief Minister Jathin Ramdas, portrayed by Tovino Thomas, and re-establish his authority.
Critics have generally praised “Empuraan” for its engaging storytelling. A review from News18 Showsha elaborated that despite the film’s complex plot, it stands well on its own. While it is intrinsically connected to “Lucifer,” the narrative expands into new territory where stakes are significantly higher. The film cleverly intertwines two parallel storylines: one addressing local issues in Kerala that precipitate Stephen’s return, and the other depicting an international power struggle between rival crime syndicates. Although the merging of these narratives may feel somewhat contrived, the direction and writing have successfully managed to captivate audiences.
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www.news18.com