Prithviraj Sukumaran, the Malayalam star‑turned‑director, just dropped a mic‑shake on the Indian Express, telling us why he thinks the southern industry keeps its pulse.
He said the difference lies in how light‑hearted the Malayalam crew is compared to Bollywood’s heavy bureaucracy. “We can call a director and a lead in a day,” he quipped, pointing out that the industry’s informality keeps projects moving.
When it comes to budgets, Prithviraj shot straight to the point: “We’re no longer making films in 15 days on a five‑crore budget.” He added that the latest wave of Malayalam movies now hit ₹100‑crore budgets and stretch over 150 shooting days, yet the collaborative spirit remains intact. “It’s still a people‑oriented process,” he said.
The actor even walked us through a typical casting call. “If I want Kareena, I just call her and say, ‘Hey, I want to make a film with you,’” he laughed. In Bollywood, he noted, the chain of agencies, managers, and production houses can delay a simple conversation for weeks. “It’s all corporate, but there’s an easier way to do things,” he added.
The real buzz, however, is his upcoming thriller ‘Daayra’ with Kareena Kapoor, marking their first collaboration. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the investigative drama dives into the moral dilemmas of law enforcement and promises a fresh blend of the two cinematic worlds.
With ‘Daayra’ slated for a December release, fans can look forward to a film that not only showcases Prithviraj’s newfound confidence in handling big budgets but also serves as a showcase of how Malayalam sensibilities can enrich Bollywood’s polished veneer. The industry’s next big test will be whether audiences embrace this hybrid style or prefer the familiar corporate formula.