Mohanlal Returns to Rule Kerala's Shadows: L2: Empuraan Review

This L2: Empuraan review starts with the scale. Prithviraj Sukumaran directs a sequel that tries to turn a Kerala political drama into a global crime saga, with Mohanlal at the centre. It is a loud, ambitious Malayalam action film, and it asks for your patience.

L2: Empuraan Review: The Story So Far (No Spoilers)

The L2: Empuraan plot picks up five years after Jathin Ramdas becomes Chief Minister of Kerala. He makes a political move to align with communal forces led by Balraj, also known as Baba Bajrangi. That decision draws Stephen Nedumpally, who also goes by Khureshi Ab'raam, back into the picture.

Stephen returns with his loyal aide Zayed Masood. Their aim is to protect Kerala and settle scores. The setup mixes state politics with a wider criminal underworld, which is why the film works as both a crime story and an action spectacle.

The screenplay is by Murali Gopy, and it is built on the assumption that you know the first film's world. Newcomers may feel a step behind in the opening stretch.

What Works in L2: Empuraan

The film is built on presence. Prithviraj stages big entrances, large crowds and heavy confrontations with the confidence of someone who knows exactly how to frame a star. When the film leans into its action and crime roots, it has real swagger.

• Scale: The story moves across a large canvas rather than staying in one corner of Kerala.

• Star power: Mohanlal commands scenes with very little effort.

• Political stakes: The idea of a home state under threat gives the action an emotional anchor.

The film also takes its time with mood. Its quieter moments of menace often land better than the noisy set pieces.

L2: Empuraan Cast and Performances

The L2: Empuraan cast is led by Mohanlal as Stephen Nedumpally, also known as Khureshi-Ab'raam. He plays the role with a calm authority that suits a man who rarely needs to raise his voice. Much of the film's appeal rests on that restraint.

Prithviraj Sukumaran also acts as Zayed Masood, and the loyal, watchful dynamic with Stephen works well. Manju Warrier plays Priyadarshini Ramdas, and Tovino Thomas plays Jathin Ramdas, the politician whose choices set events in motion. Their roles carry the political side of the story.

Abhimanyu Singh plays Balraj, or Baba Bajrangi, the film's menacing antagonist. Sukant Goel appears as Munna in the supporting cast. Together they give the film a strong ensemble feel.

Where L2: Empuraan Stumbles

At 179 minutes, the film is long, and it does not always earn every minute. Subplots and character introductions can slow the pace, especially in the middle. A tighter edit would have made the big moments hit harder.

The film also leans heavily on its predecessor. If you have not seen the earlier film, the web of names, aliases and loyalties may feel confusing. Some political themes are handled with broad strokes rather than nuance.

Audience reception reflects this mix. The TMDB audience score sits at 6.2 out of 10 from 35 votes, which is a small sample but suggests a film that impresses more than it satisfies.

Is L2: Empuraan Worth Watching?

Yes, if you enjoy big-canvas Indian action and already know the first film. Is L2: Empuraan worth watching for everyone? Not quite, because its length and reliance on earlier events will test casual viewers.

What you get is a confident star turn from Mohanlal, a director who clearly loves spectacle, and a story with real political bite. What you lose is some pace and clarity. It is a solid, flawed sequel rather than a standout one.

If you like this kind of story, browse more action movie reviews or our crime movie reviews. For a different take on star-driven action, see our Deva review.

Who Will Enjoy L2: Empuraan

• Fans of Mohanlal and Prithviraj Sukumaran who want a large-scale team-up.

• Viewers who watched the first film and want to see the story continue.

• Action and crime fans who enjoy political intrigue and long, epic runtimes.