Saikumar Discusses Prithviraj's Alterations to His Character in Lucifer Due to Mobility Challenges
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Synopsis
Saikumar reveals how director Prithviraj adapted his character Mahesha Varma in L2: Empuraan to accommodate his mobility challenges, highlighting the collaborative spirit behind the film.
Key Takeaways
- Saikumar initially declined a role in Lucifer due to mobility issues.
- Prithviraj Sukumaran altered the character's mannerisms to accommodate Saikumar.
- Mohanlal introduced Saikumar’s character in L2: Empuraan.
- Expectations for L2: Empuraan are high after the success of Lucifer.
- The film is set to release on March 27.
Chennai, Feb 18 (NationPress) Actor Saikumar, who portrays Mahesha Varma in the much-anticipated Mohanlal film L2: Empuraan (L2E), revealed that he originally declined the opportunity to act in Lucifer because of his mobility challenges. He shared how director Prithviraj Sukumaran recognized his struggles and adjusted the character's mannerisms and body language to accommodate him.
On Tuesday evening, the Malayalam superstar Mohanlal introduced Saikumar's role in the political action drama directed by Prithviraj.
On his X timeline, Mohanlal posted, "Character No17 SaiKumar as Mahesha Varma in #L2E #EMPURAAN." He also provided a link to a YouTube video where Sai Kumar discusses his character.
In the video, Saikumar expressed, "I hope you will accept Mahesha Varma just as you embraced the character in Lucifer. It has been five years since I last saw Stephen Nedumpally, and like you, I am eager to see his journey ahead."
Saikumar further explained, "When Lucifer was in production, I initially received a call from its executive producer Sidhu Panaykkal. I informed him of my mobility issues and suggested we meet for the next project."
However, he received another call from the same number, this time from the director. "...I got another call from the same number... this time, it was from dear Raju. Being Sukumaran's son, I've always had a special affection for him. When I answered, he asked, 'What’s the reason, Chetta?' I explained my leg issues and my difficulty walking. He replied, 'If you have trouble walking, then our character will too. That’s how Varma will be portrayed. Even if you're in a wheelchair, that’s how Varma will be.' That’s how I got cast in Lucifer. Now, like you, I am eagerly awaiting the release of Empuraan.
Mohanlal's film L2: Empuraan (L2E) is directed by Prithviraj and produced by Antony Perumbavoor and Subaskaran. The storyline is crafted by Murali Gopy with music composed by Deepak Dev. The film features cinematography by Sujith Vaassudev and editing by Akhilesh Mohan.
It’s worth noting that actor Prithviraj had previously stated that the film would be a commercial entertainer featuring Mohanlal. Murali Gopy has also mentioned that this is the second film in a trilogy.
'Lucifer', the inaugural installment of the franchise, released in 2019 and marked Prithviraj Sukumaran's directorial debut. It became a blockbuster within just eight days, grossing over Rs 200 crore, making it the highest-grossing Malayalam film to date.
Unquestionably, expectations for the sequel, set to premiere on March 27 this year, have reached new heights.
