L2 Empuraan: Mohanlal unveils Prithviraj’s powerful look as Zayed Masood

L2: Empuraan is one of the most highly anticipated sequels in Malayalam cinema, promising to expand on the gripping universe first introduced in Lucifer (2019). Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, who also stars as Zayed Masood, the sequel is shaping up to be a cinematic spectacle, set against a larger, more international backdrop.

On Wednesday, Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal unveiled the first look of Prithviraj as Zayed Masood in L2: Empuraan. The look reveal coincided with Prithviraj’s 42nd birthday, giving fans a thrilling birthday treat as excitement for the movie builds.

Happy birthday General! Forsaken by Godnurtured by the DEVIL! #ZayedMasood The Emperors General. @mohanlal @PrithviOfficial #MuraliGopy @LycaProductions #Subaskaran @gkmtamilkumaran @antonypbvr @aashirvadcine @prithvirajprod #SureshBalaje #GeorgePius @ManjuWarrier4 pic.twitter.com/fyonlBRuRi
Lyca Productions (@LycaProductions) October 16, 2024

Mohanlal’s unveiling of Zayed Masood came with a captivating tagline: “Forsaken by God… nurtured by the DEVIL! #ZayedMasood The Emperor’s General.” This cryptic caption not only ignited fan discussions but also hinted at the darker, more complex narrative the sequel will explore. Zayed Masood, a character introduced in Lucifer, returns as Stephen Nedumpally’s fiercely loyal lieutenant. However, there is much more to both characters than what was initially revealed. While Masood’s role was pivotal in Lucifer, where he worked behind the scenes to protect Stephen, the sequel is expected to dive deeper into his backstory and his unwavering loyalty to Stephen Nedumpally, who also has a darker identity as Khureshi-Ab’raam, an international crime lord.

In Lucifer, the audience only got glimpses of Stephen’s transformation into Khureshi-Ab’raam, a man who commands fear across international borders. The political power struggle in Kerala was only the surface of Stephen’s true influence. By the end of the film, the revelation that Stephen is actually Khureshi-Ab’raam left viewers wanting more. L2: Empuraan promises to deliver, with the filmmakers teasing a much deeper exploration of this notorious character’s dark side.

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Prithviraj’s Zayed Masood, as seen in the first film, was more than a mere bodyguard or assistant. He was a key player in Stephen’s operations, working from the shadows to ensure the success of Stephen’s plans. His mysterious and loyal nature made him an intriguing character, and fans are eager to see how his relationship with Stephen evolves in Empuraan. The tagline shared by Mohanlal suggests that Zayed’s loyalty might stem from more than just professional commitment, hinting at a complex personal history between the two.

In addition to reprising his role as Zayed Masood, Prithviraj returns as the director for L2: Empuraan. His directorial debut, Lucifer, was a massive success, breaking box-office records and establishing itself as one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time. Prithviraj’s second directorial venture, Bro Daddy (2022), showcased his versatility in handling different genres, receiving praise for its humor and heart. With Empuraan, Prithviraj is expected to raise the stakes, both as an actor and a director, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.

The screenplay, penned by Murali Gopy, is expected to delve deeper into the Lucifer universe, turning it into a grand trilogy. The film’s scale is also set to expand, with shooting locations across the UK, USA, Mexico, and Russia. The star-studded cast includes Tovino Thomas, Indrajith Sukumaran, Sachin Khedekar, Manoj K. Jayan, and Bobby Simha, adding to the excitement.