Mohanlal’s grand entry in L2: Empuraan features a custom-built AH-64 apache helicopter

L2 Empuraan

After nearly six years since Lucifer (2019), Mohanlal and director Prithviraj Sukumaran are set to return with the much-awaited sequel, L2: Empuraan. The teaser, released on January 26, has already created a buzz, and one of its biggest highlights is Mohanlal’s grand entry using an AH-64 Apache helicopter. This attack helicopter is known as one of the best in the world. However, instead of renting one or creating it digitally, the filmmakers decided to build a full-scale replica from scratch.

Since Apache helicopters were not available in India, the team, led by production designer Mohandas and supervised by Sukumaran, started working on the replica in 2023. The entire process took more than six months. A production team member explained, “The film has been in development for almost three years, and from the start, we knew we needed a real helicopter for Mohanlal’s entry. It took a lot of hard work to make it look exactly like an Apache.”

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To build the replica, the team worked closely with aviation experts and engineers. They made sure that every detail, from the cockpit to the external features, matched the real aircraft. The team used lightweight materials like aluminium and fibreglass so that the helicopter could be moved easily during filming. Advanced 3D printing technology was used to create small and complex parts, such as the missile pods and cockpit controls.

To add more realism, they engineered moving parts, including the rotor blades. LED screens were installed inside the cockpit to simulate real-time aviation controls. A supervisor from the team shared, “We built the physical model for close-up shots, but CGI was used to show the helicopter in flight and during combat scenes.”

The filmmakers plan to keep the replica for future use in the next installment of L2: Empuraan. The effort put into building this Apache replica shows the dedication of the team in delivering a grand and realistic cinematic experience. Fans are now even more excited to see how this impressive helicopter will be used in the film.