Here’s What You Probably Don’t Know About Mammootty–Mohanlal Starrer 'Patriot'
Malyalam movie Patriot is set for a worldwide theatrical release on May 1, and the buzz around this ambitious spy thriller has quietly built into something much bigger than just another big-ticket release.
On the surface, it is a star-studded action film. But look closer, and there is far more going on behind the scenes.
Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, Patriot marks a rare and much-awaited reunion of Mammootty and Mohanlal, sharing screen space after more than a decade.
For many fans, that alone is reason enough to watch.
Is Mohanlal’s Role In ‘Patriot’ Just A Cameo?
But what makes this collaboration interesting is the scale and tone the film promises. Unlike traditional star-driven dramas, this one leans into a layered spy narrative with multiple characters and intersecting arcs.
Mammootty plays Dr Daniel James, while Mohanlal appears as Colonel Rahim Naik. Alongside them, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara and Revathi form a powerful ensemble, suggesting that Patriot is less about a single hero and more about a network of stories unfolding together.
One of the biggest talking points around Patriot is the reunion of Mammootty and Mohanlal. What many may not realise is that this marks their on-screen collaboration after more than a decade.
During production, Mammootty had to briefly step away from the shoot due to health concerns. The team quietly adjusted schedules, and he later rejoined to complete his portions.
Director Mahesh Narayanan took an unusually hands-on approach. Apart from directing, he co-wrote and co-edited the film himself. This is not very common in big ensemble films, especially in a genre like spy thrillers.
Another interesting detail is how the film was shot across multiple countries, including the UK, Azerbaijan, UAE, and Sri Lanka. Instead of using these locations just for visual scale, the story reportedly integrates them into its narrative, indicating a plot that moves across borders rather than staying confined to one setting.
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Finally, despite the presence of major stars like Fahadh Faasil and Kunchacko Boban, the film isn’t structured around a single hero. Each character is said to carry a distinct arc, making it more of an ensemble-driven spy drama.
In fact, Mohanlal’s role is said to be more of an extended cameo. Reports suggest he appears for roughly 30–35 minutes in the film, but those portions are expected to be crucial to the narrative. His character, Col. Rahim Naik, reportedly drives key turning point.
