When word first broke that Mohanlal and Mammootty would reunite on screen under director Mahesh Narayanan’s banner, fans everywhere erupted in excitement. The project—initially codenamed “MMMN”—has now been officially christened Patriot, and it promises to be one of the most ambitious films in recent memory. In a candid interview with Sri Lankan media, Mohanlal revealed that the film’s scale goes far beyond its star power: “We are doing a very big film. Big film in the sense of the star cast. The name of the movie is called Patriot.”
Joining the legendary duo is an ensemble that reads like a who’s who of South Indian cinema. Fahadh Faasil brings his trademark intensity, Kunchacko Boban delivers his effortless charm, and Nayanthara—fresh off a slew of blockbusters—anchors the film’s female lead. Veteran actress Revathi lends her gravitas, while Darshana Rajendran, Zarin Shihab and Grace Antony round out a cast brimming with talent and versatility.
Patriot has already wrapped its second Sri Lankan schedule, returning to the island where principal photography first began last year. Mohanlal heaped praise on Sri Lanka’s generous hospitality and lush landscapes, noting that “it felt like shooting back home in Kerala”—a testament to the nation’s growing appeal as a film location. But Sri Lanka is just one stop on this globe-trotting adventure. The production will also traverse India, Azerbaijan, the United Kingdom and multiple Middle Eastern locales, each chosen to underscore the film’s international intrigue and high-stakes drama.
Behind the camera is Manush Nandan, whose recent work on Dunki and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani demonstrated both precision and flair. Producer Anto Joseph, alongside co-producers C.R. Salim and Subhash Manuel, has spared no expense in building elaborate sets, securing breathtaking locations, and recruiting top-flight technicians. From sweeping desert vistas to tightly choreographed action sequences, every frame aims to match the epic ambition of its storyline.
