Just four days before its theatrical release, the team behind Khalifa dropped the trailer, and it's clear Prithviraj Sukumaran is back in his massy avatar. The film, directed by Vysakh, marks their reunion after the 2010 hit Pokkiri Raja. While that film leaned heavily on mass drama with dollops of humour, the trailer for Khalifa suggests a more stylish, action-oriented approach. Whether this evolution works remains to be seen.
Style Over Substance?
Everything about the Khalifa trailer is uber-stylish. Prithviraj's character, described by a customs officer as a "notorious star smuggler," looks every bit the part. He's taking down opponents with air kicks, heavy punches, and throwing mass dialogues their way[reference:93]. The trailer hints at a protagonist with a past—a father who disapproves of his path, a normal life that was lost, possibly due to a death that changed everything. But beyond the swagger and style, the trailer leaves you wondering: what's the story?
The Big Reveal
One significant detail the trailer drops is that Khalifa will be a two-part film[reference:94]. This means yet another franchise for Prithviraj, who is already helming the Lucifer franchise and had previously promised a second part for Jana Gana Mana[reference:95]. While the music by Jakes Bejoy is apt, its actual impact will only be determined on the big screen[reference:96].
What's Missing?
The trailer lacks an oomph factor. While it has plenty of mass moments, it doesn't reveal enough of the story to draw you in[reference:97]. After two back-to-back box-office failures for Prithviraj, all eyes are on Khalifa[reference:98]. The film needs to deliver more than just style—it needs a compelling narrative to connect with audiences.
The Verdict
Khalifa comes at a crucial moment for Prithviraj. The trailer promises style, action, and mass appeal, but the absence of a strong story hook is concerning. With the Onam season clash against Nivin Pauly's Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, the film will need strong word of mouth to succeed. The trailer leaves you hoping that the actual film has more substance than what's been shown so far.