New Delhi (India): Mohanlal, the veteran actor with over four decades in Indian cinema, has been lauded not just for his acting prowess but also for his directorial debut with the recently released fantasy adventure film, ‘Barroz 3D – Guardian of Treasure’. This project marks Mohanlal’s entry into the world of direction, and it promises a fresh cinematic experience for Indian audiences.
A Unique 3D Fantasy Adventure
Mohanlal’s film, ‘Barroz 3D’, is a fantasy adventure, a genre rarely explored in Indian cinema, especially in 3D. The film, based on Jijo Punnoose’s novel ‘Barroz: Guardian of D’Gama’s Treasure’, delves into a world of pirates, adventure, and ancient treasures.
In an interview with ANI, Mohanlal shared insights into his journey behind the camera:
- “It’s a 3D film coming after 40 years. To bring a 3D movie to life demands a blend of technical expertise, artistic vision, and a few psychological nuances. It was both exciting and challenging,” he said.
The film required a unique technical approach, using two cameras to capture the right depth and visuals while maintaining a balance between exciting action and viewer comfort. Mohanlal mentioned the challenge of preventing excessive 3D effects from causing discomfort to the audience.
A Journey Into Direction
Mohanlal also reflected on his journey into direction, revealing that the opportunity came unexpectedly:
- “I was not very keen on it. But when I heard the story, I felt compelled,” he explained.
Originally intended to be directed by someone else, Mohanlal took over the reins after the original director was not ready to take on the project. According to Mohanlal, no other director was ready to tackle such a demanding 3D film, and he considered himself “chosen” for the role.
He shared that ‘Barroz 3D’ is a labour of love, a film made possible by an exceptionally talented and passionate team. Mohanlal considers this film a “gift” to his audience, a way of giving back after 47 years in the industry.
Cutting-Edge Technology and International Collaboration
The film also stands out for its use of cutting-edge technology and international collaboration. The production features an underwater animated song sequence, offering a fresh and engaging visual experience. Filming in 3D presented unique challenges, especially when it came to rapid camera movements and fast-paced action sequences, which required the team to carefully balance the 3D effects while keeping the viewing experience comfortable for the audience.
Reception and Support
The Hindi trailer for Barroz 3D was launched in Mumbai on December 11, 2024, with Akshay Kumar unveiling the teaser. Akshay praised the film for its unique appeal, emphasizing the rarity of children’s films made in India with a focus on 3D.
The film, produced by Antony Perumbavoor under the banner of Aashirvad Cinemas, was released worldwide on December 25, 2024.
What’s Next for Mohanlal
Fans are also eagerly awaiting Mohanlal’s next project: the sequel to the 2019 blockbuster ‘Lucifer’, titled ‘L2: Empuraan’. Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, ‘L2: Empuraan’ has completed filming and is set for release on March 27, 2025.
Mohanlal’s foray into directing with ‘Barroz 3D’ showcases his versatility and commitment to offering fresh, innovative cinematic experiences to Indian audiences, setting the stage for more exciting projects in the future.