Jeethu Joseph Breaks Silence on Long-Awaited Mohanlal Film 'Ram'
After years of anticipation and speculation, director Jeethu Joseph has finally provided a substantial update on the much-delayed project 'Ram', starring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal. The film, first announced in 2020 as the highly anticipated follow-up to their blockbuster collaboration 'Drishyam', had been stuck in development limbo due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent logistical challenges.
Shooting Expected to Resume Next Month with Mohanlal's Full Commitment
In an exclusive conversation with media outlets, Jeethu Joseph revealed that serious discussions are currently underway to revive the project. "If God helps, there is a chance that the shoot may restart next month," the director stated optimistically. He emphasized that Mohanlal has been exceptionally cooperative, with the actor and his manager Anthony Perumbavoor clearly prioritizing 'Ram' as a project that demands immediate attention.
"Lal sir and Anthony have clearly said this is a project that must be given priority. Whenever I say the time, he will give the dates," Jeethu Joseph confirmed, putting to rest concerns about scheduling conflicts with the busy actor's calendar.
Understanding the Four-Year Delay: COVID-19 and Production Complexities
The director provided detailed insights into why 'Ram' faced such prolonged delays despite initial excitement. Originally conceived as a two-part cinematic spectacle with extensive international shooting schedules, the project was completely derailed by the global pandemic. Once restrictions eased, producers encountered significant hurdles including:
- Coordinating dates for an ensemble cast
- Securing multiple international locations
- Managing escalating production costs in post-pandemic economy
"This time the team is serious because updates about the film have been coming again and again," Jeethu noted, adding that producers are now making concerted efforts to overcome previous obstacles.
Star-Studded Cast and International Technical Crew
The film boasts an impressive ensemble featuring:
- Trisha Krishnan
- Indrajith Sukumaran
- Samyuktha Menon
- Durga Krishna
- Chandhunath
- Anoop Menon
Behind the camera, Satheesh Kurup handles cinematography while Vishnu Shyam composes the musical score. Most notably, Jeethu Joseph confirmed that Hollywood action choreographers along with specialists from other countries are designing the film's ambitious action sequences, indicating the project's grand scale and international aspirations.
Global Shooting Locations and Current Production Status
When initially announced, 'Ram' was planned as a globe-trotting production with shooting scheduled across:
- Chennai and Dhanushkodi in India
- Cairo in Egypt
- Delhi in India
- London in United Kingdom
- Colombo in Sri Lanka
This extensive international schedule contributed significantly to the post-pandemic delays. Jeethu Joseph explained that if current plans materialize, the team will gradually return to these locations following a phased approach to manage complexities more effectively.
Jeethu Joseph's Current Project Receiving Positive Response
While audiences await 'Ram', Jeethu Joseph's latest directorial venture 'Valathuvashathe Kallan' has been receiving favorable reviews since its release. Featuring Biju Menon and Joj George in lead roles, the film's positive reception demonstrates the director's continued creative momentum even as he prepares to resurrect his most ambitious project yet.
The entertainment industry and fans alike now watch with renewed hope as one of Malayalam cinema's most successful director-actor combinations prepares to finally bring their long-awaited collaboration to fruition, promising a cinematic experience that spans continents and showcases world-class production values.
