In a major boost to one of Malayalam cinema's most anticipated releases, a well-known production banner has confirmed a substantial investment of Rs 100 crore in the upcoming Mohanlal-led 'Drishyam 3'.
The backing comes as the film gears up for its new release date following an earlier postponement.
Pen Studios, a prominent player in the Indian entertainment industry, announced on Friday that it would invest the sum in Aashirvad Cinemas, the banner behind the third instalment of director Jeethu Joseph's highly rated thriller franchise. The studio made the announcement through its social media handles, stating: "Pen Studios backs one of India's most iconic thrillers. ₹100 Cr investment. #Drishyam3 in Cinemas 21st May."
A motion poster accompanying the message read: "Pen Studios to invest Rs 100 crore in Aashirvad Cinemas through Panorama Studios for the film 'Drishyam 3', starring Mohanlal."
Release shift and production updates
Originally slated to hit cinemas on 2 April, 'Drishyam 3' was pushed to 21 May due to escalating tensions in the Gulf region. Mohanlal wrapped his portions for the film in December, marking the moment by cutting a cake with the crew, a clip that quickly gained traction online. The actor began work on the project just before receiving the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award last year.
The official launch of the film took place in September, with a traditional puja ceremony at a law college near Kochi, signalling the start of the next chapter in the widely acclaimed franchise.
Director hints at Georgekutty's next phase
Speaking at the time of the launch, director Jeethu Joseph revealed that the narrative would continue the saga of Georgekutty, Mohanlal's iconic character. "The film focuses on what happens in Georgekutty's life after four-and-a-half years. That is the crux of the story," Joseph had said, hinting at a deeper exploration of the protagonist's evolving life.
Franchise strength and production journey
Producer Antony Perumbavoor, a long-standing collaborator of Mohanlal and a pivotal figure behind the 'Drishyam' series, said the decision to greenlight the third chapter emerged from extensive conversations. "The phenomenal response to the first two parts convinced us that Georgekutty's journey had more to tell. Only after detailed talks with Jeethu did we finalise this new version," he had noted.
The production covered several locations, including Thodupuzha, Vagamon and Ernakulam, where the final five-day schedule concluded.
A landmark franchise in Indian cinema
Since its debut in 2013, the 'Drishyam' franchise has earned cult status for its gripping narrative structure, intricate suspense and Mohanlal's lauded performance. The second instalment, which arrived in 2021, strengthened its legacy, recording unprecedented box office numbers and digital viewership.
(IANS)