As Valathu Vashathe Kallan becomes first major Malayalam flop of 2026, distributor says: 'If actors take money, they must...'
Malayalam producer-distributor Joby George has said Valathu Vashathe Kallan failed at the box office even though Rs 16 crore was spent on it, while highlighting the need for actors to promote films.
Last Updated: 04.48 PM, Feb 17, 2026
Valathu Vashathe Kallan is the latest thriller film helmed by director Jeethu Joseph, who is known for the popular Drishyam movies with superstar Mohanlal. The film stars actor Biju Menon, who has been at the centre of a row for not turning up for promotions. Amid this, Malayalam producer-distributor Joby George has also said that Valathu Vashathe Kallan failed at the box office, even though Rs 16 crore was spent on it, while highlighting the need for actors to go for film promotions
Is Valathu Vashathe Kallan a flop?
In a recent chat with the YouTube channel YouTalk, Joby George said that he took up the distribution of Valathu Vashathe Kallan for Rs 6.5 crore. He had entered into an agreement with producer Shaji Nadesan to help him.
“When that money did not turn out to be sufficient, I gave more money. That’s how Valathu Vashathe Kallan reached theatres by spending Rs 16 crore. But for whatever reason, the film did not run at the box office,” he explained. He further said that Valathu Vashathe Kallan is the first loss of his production company.
However, Joby added that he would not blame the cast or crew if the film did not succeed. “But if the actors take money, they must go for promotions. Otherwise, they should not take money. Doesn't a film actor get paid more money than a district collector? Cinema is a business; everyone should stand by it,” he added.
Malayalam cinema has not seen any major success in 2026 so far, with movies like actor Nivin Pauly's Baby Girl also turning out to be a failure at the box office.
Joby George had previously backed hit films such as Kishkindha Kaandam, starring Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali and Vijayaraghavan.
What’s the row over Biju Menon
Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) general secretary B Unnikrishnan had recently stated that a producer suffered a Rs 25 lakh loss after actor Biju Menon did not turn up for promotions. It was later revealed that the film in question was Nadanna Sambhavam, and the producer who suffered the loss was Anoop Kannan. This had led to heated debates with several industry workers stating for and against the actor. But Biju Menon is yet to publicly respond to the issue.
Valathu Vashathe Kallan movie FAQs
Q. Who are the actors in Valathu Vashathe Kallan?
A. Valathu Vashathe Kallan stars actors Biju Menon and Joju George in the lead roles.
Q. Who directed Valathu Vashathe Kallan?
A. Valathu Vashathe Kallan is directed by Jeethu Joseph.
Q. What is Valathu Vashathe Kallan about?
A. Valathu Vashathe Kallan revolves around a corrupt cop. When a young woman is killed, her father seeks justice and makes the cop pay for his wrongdoings.