Last updated: 8 May 2026


Malayalam · Comedy
2h 45m · 11 May 2018
DOP: Shaji Kumar | Writer: Suneesh Varanaad, Sajid Yahiya
Ratings
Our Rating
1.5
The film 'Mohanlal' revolves around the life of a young man who idolizes the legendary Malayalam actor Mohanlal. The story explores his struggles, relationships, and the impact of his admiration on his personal and professional life. It blends elements of drama and comedy, highlighting the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the influence of cinema on everyday life.
Mohanlal presents a heartfelt narrative that attempts to capture the essence of fandom and personal growth. The screenplay is straightforward but occasionally predictable, with a mix of emotional and light-hearted moments. The pacing is uneven; the first half establishes the characters and their motivations well, though it tends to drag in places. The second half picks up momentum, delivering more engaging sequences and emotional depth.
The film's music and background score complement the mood effectively, though the absence of standout songs makes the soundtrack less memorable. Cinematography by Shaji Kumar captures the scenic locales and adds visual appeal, but the overall technical execution remains conventional. The film relies heavily on the charm of its cast and the nostalgic value of its references to Mohanlal's cinematic legacy.
While the story is relatable and the performances earnest, the screenplay could have been tighter to maintain consistent engagement. The film serves as a tribute to the superstar but falls short of delivering a compelling cinematic experience beyond that homage.
Manju Warrier: Strong and emotive, bringing depth to her character.
Indrajith Sukumaran: Solid supporting role with natural ease.
Aju Varghese: Provides comic relief with timing and charm.
Salim Kumar: Effective in a character role, adding warmth.
Soubin Shahir: Good presence, contributes to lighter moments.
Siddique: Credible and authoritative in his role.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Sajid Yahiya's direction focuses on delivering a heartfelt tribute to the superstar Mohanlal, balancing drama and comedy. While the intent is clear, the execution lacks the narrative tightness and innovation needed to elevate the film beyond a niche appeal. The writing is earnest but could have benefited from more nuanced storytelling.
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Our Rating
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| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 40% |
| Neutral | 35% |
| Negative | 25% |
Critics appreciated the earnest performances and the emotional core of the film but pointed out the uneven pacing and predictable storyline as major drawbacks. The film was seen as a sincere tribute to Mohanlal but lacking in cinematic innovation. The technical aspects were considered adequate but not exceptional.
Final Box-Office Result
Mohanlal released on 11 May 2018 (2018).
Mohanlal is declared a DISASTER at the box office.
Mohanlal OTT release date not announced yet.
Mohanlal directed by Sajid Yahiya.
Mohanlal stars Manju Warrier, Indrajith Sukumaran, Aju Varghese, Salim Kumar, Soubin Shahir.
Tollybo rates Mohanlal 1.5/5. Verdict: DISASTER.
Mohanlal — Genre: Comedy, Runtime: 165 minutes, Language: Malayalam.