Empuraan: Re-censored version puts an end to IMAX screenings of Mohanlal-starrer

Empuraan makers sought to put an end to the controversy following the right-wing backlash by making 24 cuts and submitting the Malayalam movie for re-censoring. The re-censored version of the Mohanlal-starrer has hit theatres, but it has thrown up another problem for the makers. The re-edited Lucifer sequel is unlikely to make it to IMAX screens due to the sheer expenditure involved in the process.

IMAX screenings of Empuraan take a hit

Before its much-awaited release on March 27, 2025, Empuraan made news for being the first-ever Malayalam film to release on IMAX. But the film faced a barrage of reactions, including right-wing backlash, forcing the makers of the Prithviraj Sukumaran directorial to cut down or mute portions. The re-edited version arrives at cinemas on April 2, 2025. But unfortunately, the re-censored version will not be making it to the IMAX screens. 

As per reports, IMAX screenings of Empuraan, the sequel to the 2019 blockbuster Lucifer, are likely to continue only until April 2 (Wednesday) due to the re-censored and edited version. The reuploading process reportedly costs over $50,000, making it an impractical choice. 

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Empuraan undergoes 24 cuts

Empuraan landed in a controversy after the right-wing supporters objected to certain portions shown during the childhood of Zayed Masood. Several supporters took offence to the scenes, with even die-hard Lalettan fans resorting to cancelling their tickets over the row. RSS mouthpiece Organiser had also written a scathing article, levelling serious allegations against director Prithviraj Sukumaran and writer Murali Gopy.  

Following the backlash, Empuraan’s lead actor Mohanlal put a Facebook post, expressing regret. Director Prithviraj, who also starred in the movie, shared the FB post but is yet to directly make any statements over the issue, which has become a raging controversy. Notably, writer Murali Gopy is yet to respond but producer Antony Perumbavoor had insisted that everyone were in agreement for making the cuts to L2E.

Empuraan is the sequel to Lucifer, which is available to stream on SonyLiv and OTTplay Premium at discounted prices.