Prithviraj Sukumaran Calls Mass Films the ‘Toughest Genre’ Reveals How Mohanlal’s Role in Khalifa Became Bigger Than Planned

Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has made a striking statement about mainstream cinema, calling mass entertainers the most difficult kind of films to pull off — a genre often underestimated despite its massive box-office appeal.

The Varanasi actor, who is currently busy with his upcoming projects Khalifa and I, Nobody, recently shared rare insights into his filmmaking philosophy and the ambitious expansion of Khalifa into a much larger cinematic universe.

Speaking in a recent interaction, Prithviraj explained why commercial films demand exceptional craftsmanship.

“To me, it is the toughest kind of film to make because you are making it to elicit a reaction,” he said.

According to the actor, creating a successful mass entertainer is not just about action or larger-than-life moments — it’s about understanding audience emotions and delivering moments that stay with them long after they leave the theatre.

Prithviraj also credited iconic directors like Manmohan Desai and IV Sasi, calling them masters of the genre.

“It requires incredible skill, which is why I hold these filmmakers in high regard,” he added.

The actor’s remarks have reignited conversations around the craft behind commercial cinema, especially at a time when content-driven films and mass entertainers continue to battle for dominance at the box office.

But the bigger revelation came when Prithviraj spoke about Khalifa.

The action entertainer, directed by Vysakh, was initially designed as a standalone story. However, during its early writing stages, the team had already planted seeds for something much bigger — particularly through the mysterious character of Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali.

Prithviraj revealed that writer Jinu Abraham had envisioned a deep backstory for the character from the very beginning.

“In the first narration itself, we knew there was a story behind the grandfather’s character,” he shared.

At first, the makers planned to explore that arc in a possible sequel or prequel — only if the original film succeeded.

But things changed after the first production schedule in London.

What they shot during that phase gave the team enough confidence to fully commit to building the character’s legacy into the film’s narrative.

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That decision turned Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali from a shadowy mention into a concrete, on-screen presence.

And that’s where superstar Mohanlal entered the picture.

In one of the most amusing moments from the production journey, Prithviraj recalled how he personally called Mohanlal to pitch the role.

“I told him, ‘You have played my father. How about playing my grandfather?’” Prithviraj said, laughing.

Mohanlal reportedly agreed instantly, replying warmly, “Of course, pinnentha mone!”

The cameo has now become one of the biggest talking points around Khalifa, which is set for an Onam 2026 release and is expected to be a high-octane entertainer.

Meanwhile, Prithviraj is also gearing up for the release of I, Nobody, a gripping heist thriller directed by Nissam Basheer.

The film, which also stars Parvathy Thiruvothu, is slated to hit theatres worldwide on July 9, 2026.

With two ambitious projects lined up and a bold vision for storytelling, Prithviraj Sukumaran continues to prove why he remains one of the most dynamic forces in Indian cinema today.