March 27, 2025: L2:Empuraan Review: 4/5
Superstar Mohan Lal’s Empuraan, the long-awaited sequel to Lucifer, has arrived and it’s every bit the grand cinematic experience fans hoped for. Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, this high-octane political thriller continues the saga of Khureshi Ab’raam (Mohanlal), a character whose very presence commands the screen. The film delivers an exhilarating mix of action, drama, and spectacle, making it a compelling watch from start to finish.
Set five years after the events of Lucifer, the stakes are higher as Kerala faces a crisis of power and corruption. The once-idealistic CM Jathin (Tovino Thomas) succumbs to the lure of political alliances that threaten the very fabric of the state. As the state teeters on the brink of chaos, the return of Stephen Nedumpally — or “Lucifer” — becomes the only hope for restoring balance. And when Mohanlal’s Khureshi finally makes his entrance, it’s everything fans could have dreamed of.
The film excels in its visual storytelling. With breathtaking cinematography by Sujith Vaassudev, Empuraan takes the audience on a stunning ride through the political and criminal underworlds of Kerala. The sweeping visuals, paired with intense action sequences, provide a cinematic feast that’s nothing short of spectacular. Whether it’s high-speed chases or gritty showdowns, the film never lets up on the thrills, making it a full-on entertainer.
Empuraan Review in Short: Bigger, Bolder, and Brilliantly Entertaining
Mohanlal’s return as the iconic Khureshi Ab’raam is the heart of Empuraan. His commanding presence is felt in every scene, effortlessly blending intensity with emotion. It’s a performance that reminds us why he is one of Malayalam cinema’s biggest stars. His on-screen charisma drives the film forward, making every moment involving his character utterly captivating.
Prithviraj Sukumaran’s direction ensures that Empuraan feels larger than life. The pacing is tight, and the film effortlessly balances action with emotional depth. From thrilling confrontations to poignant moments of personal reflection, the movie never loses its grip on the audience. Even when the stakes are high and the action intense, it’s the human story at the center that keeps the narrative grounded.
Empuraan also benefits from an ensemble cast that delivers strong performances. Tovino Thomas steps into the role of Jathin with ease, portraying the character’s descent from an idealistic leader to a man driven by power and greed. His transformation is subtle yet effective, adding an intriguing layer to the story. Alongside him, Manju Warrier shines as Priyadarshini, showing the strength and resilience of her character in the face of political turmoil.
The film’s action sequences are designed to impress, with adrenaline-pumping stunts and dramatic confrontations that are nothing short of thrilling. Whether it’s the high-stakes political drama or the more intense personal battles, Empuraan delivers on every front. The background score, though understated, complements the action, building tension and amplifying the stakes.
Empuraan: A Spectacular Sequel Worth Every Moment
Empuraan Review Finally: it is a solid follow-up to Lucifer, delivering everything fans of the first film could want: a gripping story, powerful performances, and stunning visuals. It’s a film that keeps you on the edge of your seat, offering entertainment at its finest. With Mohanlal’s towering performance at its core, Empuraan is a worthy sequel that promises even more excitement in the future.