L2 Empuraan: Prithviraj Sukumaran on manifesting his wish to direct Mohanlal and 'legend' Manju Warrier 20 years ago

Back during the 2000s, when Prithviraj Sukumaran made his debut in Malayalam cinema with Nandanam, there was significant buzz around this English-speaking actor. Since then, Prithviraj has come a long way and marking his debut directorial with the hit film Lucifer in 2019. Now, Prithviraj has recounted about hs initial days when he said during an interview that he would like to do a film with Mohanlal and Manju Warrier if he were to ever direct.  

Prithviraj Sukumaran on directing Mohanlal, Manju Warrier

During the official trailer launch of Empuraan, Prithviraj Sukumaran spoke about how Mohanlal and Mammootty have been the biggest influences from Malayalam cinema. He also lavished praise on Manju Warrier, calling her a ‘legend’ in her own right. 

Recalling his initial days, Prithviraj said that during an interview held about 20 years ago, he was asked who would he cast if he were to direct a movie ever. And he instantly replied, “Mohanlal and Manju Warrier,” even though he had no intention of directing a movie back then. 

Also read - 6 Prithviraj Sukumaran movies on OTT that prove he is a stellar actor 

And Prithviraj's wish came true when he directed both Mohanlal and Manju Warrier in his first directorial film, Lucifer.  

Mohanlal and Manju Warrier in Lucifer

Lucifer follows the events after Chief Minister PK Ramdas dies. Manju Warrier plays Priya, the daughter of PK Ramdas, while Mohanlal is seen as Stephen Nedumpally, a loyal supporter of PK Ramdas. When Priya and her brother Jathin (Tovino Thomas) run into trouble, it is Stephen who comes to their rescue. 

The gripping thriller film also features an ensemb le cast of Prithviraj, Vivek Oberoi, Indrajith Sukumaran, Sai Kumar, Baiju Santhosh, Sachin Khedekar, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Saniya Iyappan, Nyla Usha, and Fazil. Lucifer is available for streaming on SonyLiv and OTTplay Premium. 

Stream more gripping political thrillers on OTTplay Premium—now at a special discounted price. 

The second part in the Lucifer franchise, L2 EMpuraan, will release on March 27, 2025. Along with the lead stars of Lucifer, Empuraan will also have Abhimanyu Singh, Eriq Ebouaney, Jerome Flynn, and Suraj Venjaramoodu in its cast.