'Puzhu': Mammootty starrer heads for direct OTT release
What's the story
In an unexpected move, makers of Mammootty's upcoming film Puzhu have announced that the film is heading for a direct digital release on the OTT platform SonyLIV. The release date of the film, co-starring Parvathy Thiruvothu, is expected to be announced soon. This announcement came a day after Mammootty's son and Malayalam star Dulquer Salmaan's Salute hit the same OTT platform, ditching theatrical release.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The news about Puzhu's OTT premiere comes just days after the Film Exhibitors United Organization of Kerala (FEUOK) announced a ban on films starring Salmaan and those produced under his Wayfarer Films banner after Salute went the OTT way. And, Puzhu is backed by Wayfarer Films, too. So, the decision to head for a direct-to-digital release is indeed a bold move by its makers.
Facts
Here's what we know of the film
Mammootty announced Puzhu's direct OTT release on social media and also shared his new poster from the film. Directed by Ratheena, it is touted to be a psychological thriller and it is likely the movie will see Mammootty playing a negative role. Going by the teaser released by the makers a few months back, the film will show Mammukka in a never-before-seen avatar.
Teaser
What does the teaser show?
The teaser showed Mammootty speaking to a child, named Kichu, in a chilling voice with a violin playing in the background. "When we share the things we have with others, it is good. That's how we become good human beings. But there's no need to accept things they give us in return. Kichu doesn't need it, does he?" he says ominously in the clip.
Updates
These are the other upcoming projects of Mammootty
Mammukka was last seen in Bheeshma Parvam. He next has the fifth installment of the investigation thriller CBI—directed by K Madhu—in the making. Meanwhile, Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam will see his maiden collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery. He'll also be seen playing the main antagonist in the Telugu film, Agent, starring Akhil Akkineni. Amal Neerad's Bilal rounds up his lineup of upcoming films.