The much-awaited sequel to Lucifer, ‘L2: Empuraan,’ officially went on floors a year back, marking the return of one of Malayalam cinema’s biggest franchises. Helmed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film brings back Mohanlal as the enigmatic Stephen Nedumpally, a character that captivated audiences in the first installment. The sequel promises to delve deeper into the political and underworld connections of its protagonist, taking the franchise to an even grander scale. With production spanning multiple locations, including India, the UK, and the Middle East, ‘L2: Empuraan‘ is set to be a visual spectacle.
Production and plot
The film’s production was completed in a record time, with an extensive shooting schedule planned across various countries. Unlike ‘Lucifer,’ which was largely set in Kerala, ‘L2: Empuraan‘ will expand its narrative globally, highlighting the rise of Stephen Nedumpally in the world of crime and power. While plot details are tightly under wraps, reports suggest that the film will focus on the protagonist’s transformation into a larger-than-life figure, blending intense action, political drama, and power struggles. The makers have promised a gripping storyline with high-stakes twists, making it one of the most ambitious Malayalam films to date.
Cast and crew
Alongside Mohanlal, ‘L2: Empuraan’ boasts an ensemble cast featuring Manju Warrier, Indrajith Sukumaran, Tovino Thomas, and others reprising their roles from ‘Lucifer.’. Prithviraj Sukumaran, apart from directing, will also play a significant part in the film. The script is penned by Murali Gopy, ensuring continuity in the franchise’s intense narrative. The technical crew includes cinematographer Sujith Vaassudev and composer Deepak Dev, who return to create the signature cinematic experience. ‘L2: Empuraan’ is expected to push the boundaries of Malayalam cinema with its high production value and international appeal.
Release buzz and pre-sales
With the film scheduled for release on March 27, 2025, anticipation is at an all-time high. The pre-release buzz is immense, fueled by teaser drops, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and the star power of Mohanlal. The film’s overseas distribution rights have already been acquired for record-breaking prices, signaling a massive opening worldwide. Pre-sales for theatrical screenings have begun in key markets, and the much-awaited film surpassed ‘Lucifer’ in terms of bookings. The excitement surrounding the movie has also led to high demand for satellite and OTT rights, with major streaming platforms reportedly bidding for exclusive digital distribution.
Box office expectations
Given the success of ‘Lucifer,’ which became the first Malayalam film to enter the Rs 200 crore club, expectations for ‘L2: Empuraan’ are sky-high. Trade analysts predict that the film could set new benchmarks at the box office, with an opening that could rival pan-Indian releases. The multilingual release strategy is expected to bring in a wider audience, further boosting its commercial prospects. If the film delivers on its promise of action-packed storytelling and stunning visuals, it has the potential to become the biggest Malayalam blockbuster to date. With global audiences eagerly awaiting its release, ‘L2: Empuraan’ is shaping up to be one of the most significant cinematic events of the year.
