The trailer of Prithviraj Sukumaran’s upcoming action thriller Khalifa is out, offering a glimpse into the dangerous world of gold smuggling and the legacy surrounding its central character, Aamir Ali. Directed by Vysakh and scripted by Jinu V Abraham, the film is scheduled to hit theatres worldwide on August 20 for the Onam season.
The 2-minute-37-second trailer opens with a reference to COFEPOSA (Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act), immediately establishing the film’s criminal backdrop. Indrans’ character suggests that this is the narrative the authorities are pursuing before the trailer begins to unveil Aamir Ali's history.
Prithviraj’s character is presented as a notorious smuggler whose reputation has endured long after his earlier exploits. The trailer also hints at the extent of his influence, placing him in conflict with politicians and rival figures in the gold-smuggling trade. Shammi Thilakan appears to be playing one of the political figures determined to track Aamir down, while Neil Nitin Mukesh, who is making his Malayalam debut with the film, is introduced as a powerful figure within the smuggling network. Aamir is seen taking on those who threaten his position, with the confrontations becoming increasingly personal and violent. The trailer culminates in a series of threats and explosive moments.
The trailer also places considerable emphasis on Aamir’s family legacy. The film has previously revealed that Mohanlal plays Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, Aamir’s grandfather, who is expected to have an important role in the planned two-part narrative. The action glimpses indicate that Vysakh has mounted the project on a large scale, with the trailer featuring intense confrontations, gunfire and explosive set pieces.
Khalifa marks Prithviraj’s second collaboration with Vysakh after Pokkiri Raja. The director also reunites with Mohanlal after Pulimurugan and Monster. The technical crew of the upcoming film comprises cinematographer Jomon T John, composer Jakes Bejoy, editor Chaman Chakko and action choreographer Yannick Ben. It is produced by Jinu V Abraham and Suraj Kumar under the banner of Jinu Abraham Innovations.
