In a cinematic extravaganza that unfolded on Republic Day 2023, the highly anticipated Malayalam film “Malaikottai Vaaliban,” starring the legendary Mohanlal, hit theaters with a resounding bang. Directed by the visionary Lijo Jose Pellissery, the film soared to new heights, earning a remarkable ₹5.5 crore nett on its opening day, setting the stage for what promises to be a blockbuster run.
According to Sacnilk.com’s report, “Malaikottai Vaaliban” boasted an impressive overall Malayalam occupancy rate of 51.23 percent on Thursday. The morning shows kicked off with a bang at 59.81 percent occupancy, maintaining a strong presence throughout the day with 37.09 percent for afternoon shows, 48.62 percent for evening shows, and a dazzling 59.41 percent for night shows. The stronghold of the film’s success was felt most in Kochi, where it recorded a staggering 67.5 percent overall occupancy.
Notably, “Malaikottai Vaaliban” isn’t confined to the boundaries of Malayalam cinema alone. The film boasts dubbed versions in Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu, ensuring a broader audience base for its epic tale.
The film’s narrative unfolds in an alternate world, with Mohanlal portraying the titular character, Malaikottai Vaaliban, an undisputed warrior whose journey transcends time and boundaries, challenging every opponent in his path. Sonalee Kulkarni takes on the role of Rangapattinam Rangarani, alongside Hareesh Peradi as Ayyanar and Danish Sait as Chamathakan.
In a review by Hindustan Times, Mohanlal’s stellar performance takes center stage, particularly in the breathtaking fight scenes. The review notes, “Mohanlal fans would have a lot of expectations from this film, but one must remember that it is a Lijo Jose Pellissery film. Called a fantasy entertainer, there are elements that work in Malaikottai Vaaliban and elements that clearly don’t. Expect the unexpected.”
As the audience braces for the unexpected, “Malaikottai Vaaliban” stands poised to make a lasting impact on the box office, with Mohanlal’s masterful portrayal and Lijo Jose Pellissery’s visionary direction leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of moviegoers. The film’s journey has just begun, promising a rollercoaster of emotions and a visual spectacle that transcends the boundaries of conventional cinema.
