Mohanlal to shed 15 kilos for Odiyan!
Mohanlal’s Odiyan is arguably one of the most interesting upcoming projects in South Indian cinema. The movie has an unique plot and theme, which has rarely been tried in Indian cinema. It is a fantasy film that will have a mix of action, romance and magical realism.
Odiyan marks the debut directorial of renowned ad filmmaker VA Shrikumar Menon and is written by National award winner Harikrishnan. The movie is primarily about Odividya, a black magic technique, and people who practice it, called Odiyan. There are a lot of stories and myths about Odiyans and their life in Kerala’s folklore.
In a recent interview, director VA Shrikuamr Menon revealed that Mohanlal will be shedding 15 kilos for playing his character in the movie. Mohanlal will be essaying the role of Odiyan Manikyan and he will be seen from the age of 30 to 65 in multiple looks.
Odiyan Manikyan is a terrific athlete who is mastered in Odividya. He can run on four legs and jump higher than normal people. Recently, the makers had released a casting call for boys who can play the younger part of Mohanlal in the movie. They had particularly mentioned that the aspirants should have good flexibility and be well trained in Kalaripayattu, gymnastics and martial arts.
An odiyan is someone who can take any shape, he can crawl and also run at high speed. So, Mohanlal needs to be in great shape to perform such stunts. Peter Hein, who choreographed the amazing stunts in Pulimurugan, has been roped in to train Mohanlal for playing the charcater of Odiyan Manikyan.
The first look poster of the movie had Mohanlal in a clean shaven look with a lot trimmer physique than how he is presently. It is learnt that the veteran star will be training hard to achieve a similar look. Scores of fans are already excited to see how Mohanlal plays Odiyan Manikyan, which is said to be one of the most challenging roles in his three decade long career.
Odiyan also stars Manju Warrier and Prakash Raj in prominent roles.
Pre-production works for the movie is currently progressing in full swing. Sabu Cyril is in charge of Odiyan’s production design. Mohanlal’s own banner Aashirvad Cinemas is funding this big budget movie. Palakkad, Pollachi, Hyderabad and Varanasi have been finalized as the major locations.
