Prithviraj Sukumaran-starrer Khalifa is set to release in theatres on August 20, with Think Studios distributing the film in Karnataka through VK Films. Directed by Vysakh and written by Jinu V Abraham, the Malayalam action thriller has Prithviraj playing Mambarakal Aamir Ali, a character connected to an international gold-smuggling network.

The film’s trailer, released on August 16, has added to the anticipation around the release. It introduces Aamir Ali as a feared figure in the criminal underworld and gives a glimpse of the film’s action-heavy setting. The trailer has also crossed millions of views, adding to the buzz ahead of its theatrical release.

One of the film’s major highlight is said to be the presence of Mohanlal, who plays Mambarakal Ahmed Ali. Prithviraj has clarified that the film mainly introduces Mohanlal’s character, with his role potentially becoming more significant in a subsequent chapter. Khalifa is planned as the first part of a larger story.

The film also marks Malvika Sharma’s Malayalam debut. Known for her work in Telugu and Tamil cinema, she plays the female lead opposite Prithviraj. The cast also includes Indrans and Anand Manmadhan, who plays a character named Rahim.

Jakes Bejoy has composed the music, while Jomon T John is the cinematographer and Chaman Chacko handles the editing. The film has been shot across several locations, adding to its international crime-thriller setting.

The film will also be part of the crowded Onam release window, alongside several major South Indian releases.