Director Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers a stunning, content-rich sequel to Lucifer, with Mohanlal in electrifying form as Khureshi Ab’raam. Empuraan sets new benchmarks for storytelling, scale, and cinematic ambition in Indian cinema.
Empuraan (stylized as L2: E.M.P.U.R.A.A.N) isn’t just a sequel — it’s a cinematic event. Following the success of Lucifer (2019), director Prithviraj Sukumaran returns with an even more ambitious, layered, and stylish second installment that raises the bar for Malayalam—and arguably Indian—cinema.
At the heart of this explosive action-political thriller is Mohanlal, reprising his dual avatar as the mysterious Khureshi Ab’raam/Stephen Nedumpally. He’s magnetic, restrained, and thunderous when needed—an absolute force on screen. His pre-interval re-entry scene? Pure goosebumps.
Prithviraj, who also reprises his role and directs with absolute command, ensures Empuraan is not just about swagger but also substance. Screenwriter Murali Gopy crafts a tight, complex narrative that weaves political drama, global espionage, and personal vendettas seamlessly. Even with a sprawling cast and international locales, the emotional core of the story remains intact.
The film boasts stunning visuals—cinematography that rivals global standards and action choreography that’s slick, stylish, and grounded. Deepak Dev’s background score is pulsating, adding depth and rhythm to every major moment. The editing, production design, and sound mixing come together to build a cinematic experience that’s rich and immersive.
Supporting performances from Tovino Thomas, Indrajith Sukumaran, Manju Warrier, and the new international cast including Jerome Flynn (of Game of Thrones fame) add gravitas. Each character is given space, and nothing feels forced or fan-service-y.
That said, Empuraan is not without its flaws. Its high-concept structure, political density, and global span might be overwhelming for some. The first half takes its time to build, and viewers unfamiliar with Lucifer may occasionally feel lost despite the film being designed to stand alone.
Still, these are small quibbles in a film that dares to dream big and mostly delivers. Empuraan doesn’t just follow Lucifer—it expands the universe and sets the stage for what could be a truly legendary trilogy.
🎥 Verdict:
A fan listed the highlights of the film Empuraan on X, writing, “??Gripping Storyline ??Mohanlal’s Performance ??Prithviraj’s Direction ??Strong Supporting Cast ??Stunning Visuals & Music.” Adding the cons, they wrote, “??High Expectations ??Complex Narrative ??Possible Pacing Issues ??Comparison with Lucifer.”
@TollywoodRulz posted a review of Empuraan that read, “#Empuraan is a visually stunning, action-packed, and emotionally engaging film that lives up to its hype, despite the challenge of meeting high expectations. Empuraan Raises the Bar – Sets a new standard for #Malayalam cinema.”
@CinemaWithAB posted on X, “#L2E #Empuraan – Bang ON entry for Mohanlal after an Hour with peak commercial elevation. Hollywood level visuals & stunts? Director Prithviraj ??.”
@ForumReelz shared via X, “#Empuraan is like lucifer with a good screenplay. Story building & core emotions is dealt more, & the BGM & scale of making is perfect. ?Good setup for the second half. ? Waiting for a banger one. ??”
A fan shared on X, “First half ???? Lalettan in pre Interval scene ?? Purely INTERNATIONAL…Face the world of Kureshi Abram?? Rich and Hollywoodish making.. Prithviraj The Director ??????#Empuraan.”
On release day, Empuraan director, actor Prithviraj Sukumaran took to social media and wrote, “Achan..I know you’re watching. #L2E #EMPURAAN In theatres from today!”
@fahimaslam05 wrote on X, “I want the movie to win big, cause this could be the movie that changes the whole landscape of Malayalam cinemas specially high budget films.”
@eldhogeorge1997 posted, “It’s past 1 AM in India and 8 PM in the UK, and honestly, I don’t think I’ll be sleeping tonight. The anticipation and excitement are on another level! I just hope the film is loved by everyone.”
Mohanlal acknowledges Mammootty’s best wishes for Empuraan: ‘Thank you, Ichakka. This means a lot’
Mohanlal took to X to acknowledge Mammotty’s best wishes for Empuraan. He wrote, “Some moments just hit different… When it comes from my brother, it becomes priceless. Thank you, Ichakka. This means a lot.”
Mammootty had earlier posted on X, “Best wishes to the entire cast and crew of #Empuraan for a historic victory! Hope it crosses boundaries across the world and makes the entire Malayalam industry proud. Rooting for you, Dear Lal and Prithvi.”
Empuraan is a genre-defining, technically magnificent, and narratively rich sequel that cements Mohanlal’s stardom and Prithviraj’s directorial prowess. It’s the kind of film that redefines expectations—and paves the way for Malayalam cinema to rule the pan-India space.