In a stunning display of talent, Prithviraj Sukumaran has clinched the Best Actor award at the 54th Kerala State Film Awards for his powerful portrayal in Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life). The ceremony, held on April 16, 2025, saw the actor triumph over esteemed competitors, including Mammootty, who was considered a strong contender for his role in Kaathal: The Core. This latest win marks Prithviraj's third accolade in the Best Actor category, following his previous victories for Vaasthavam in 2006 and Celluloid in 2013.
Prithviraj's role in Aadujeevitham was not just a performance but a journey that required immense physical and emotional transformation. He reportedly lost over 30 kilos to authentically depict Najeeb, a Malayali migrant ensnared in modern slavery in the Gulf. Critics have lauded his portrayal as "haunting and physically demanding," highlighting the lengths he went to embody the character. The film, directed by Blessy and based on Benyamin's acclaimed novel, also dominated the awards night, taking home a total of nine awards, including Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay for Blessy.
The jury, led by renowned filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, praised Prithviraj's performance as a "masterclass in immersive acting," while Blessy was recognized for his "aesthetic authenticity and directorial audacity." Despite Mammootty's loss in the Best Actor category, his film Kaathal: The Core was awarded Best Film, a testament to its emotional depth and innovative storytelling.
In addition to the accolades for Prithviraj and Blessy, the Best Actress award was jointly awarded to Urvashi for her role in Ullozhukku and Beena R Chandran for Thadavu. This recognition underscores the diverse talent present in Malayalam cinema and the rich narratives being brought to the forefront.
Meanwhile, the buzz around Prithviraj continues with the release of his latest film, L2: Empuraan, which hit theaters on March 27, 2025. This political action thriller, featuring the legendary Mohanlal, has quickly become the highest-grossing Malayalam film of the year, crossing the 250 crore mark globally. However, despite its initial box office success, the film has faced mixed reviews and some controversy regarding its depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots, leading to some scenes being muted or edited after its release.
As anticipation builds, L2: Empuraan is set to premiere on Jio Hotstar on April 24, 2025, just under a month after its theatrical debut, marking a surprisingly swift transition for a film of its scale. Fans are eager to see whether the streaming version will feature the original cut or the revised edition that followed public backlash.
Industry insiders suggest that the streaming version will likely adhere to the post-release censored cut, a move aimed at avoiding further controversy. Nevertheless, this digital release offers a chance for the film to reach a broader audience, potentially revitalizing interest in its narrative and themes.
The film, a sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer, explores the tumultuous political landscape of Kerala, focusing on power struggles and corruption. It follows Jathin Ramdas, portrayed by Tovino Thomas, who grapples with the consequences of his greed and mismanagement, leading to chaos in the state. Mohanlal reprises his iconic role as Khureshi Ab’raam, delivering a compelling performance that adds depth to the unfolding drama.
As the film gears up for its OTT debut, the excitement is palpable among fans and critics alike. With its gripping narrative and intense action sequences, L2: Empuraan has already captivated audiences, and its streaming release is expected to further enhance its popularity.
In a related note, following the film's release, the Income Tax Department issued a notice to Prithviraj Sukumaran concerning discrepancies in the financial details associated with the film. This development adds another layer of intrigue to the film's already eventful journey.
As the Malayalam film industry continues to flourish, the recognition of talent such as Prithviraj Sukumaran and the success of films like Aadujeevitham and L2: Empuraan highlight the vibrant storytelling and artistry present in the region. With awards celebrating outstanding performances and films making waves at the box office, the future looks bright for Malayalam cinema.
