Mohanlal's Devadoothan sees success that eluded it 24 years ago

    Mohanlal's underappreciated classic Devadoothan has made a triumphant return to theatres, 24 years after its original release.

    Mohanlal in Devadoothan

    Mohanlal in Devadoothan

    Malayalam superstar Mohanlal's underappreciated movie Devadoothan was re-released on Friday, and it has received a very encouraging response from the audience, gaining attention that eluded it when it was originally released 24 years ago.

    According to reports, Devadoothan earned more than Rs 40 lakh in theatrical collections globally, which is impressive for a movie over two decades old and easily available on streaming platforms. Based on the initial response, Devadoothan may further consolidate its success over the weekend.

    Several theatres in Kerala displayed 'houseful' boards, reminding everyone that good movies will always get their due in one way or another. Videos on social media showed audiences cheering for the movie inside the theatre, exploding with claps and whistles during the song "Entharo Mahanubhavulu." Composed by Vidyasagar, "Entharo Mahanubhavulu" has achieved an iconic status among movie and music lovers in the country over the years.

    "The opening for #Devadoothan is good, especially considering the number of shows and its status as a re-release. Tomorrow’s advance bookings in major cities are also promising. It’s great to see deserving films getting a re-release and receiving such a positive reception," said an industry tracker on social media.

    Devadoothan, directed by Sibi Malayil, was first released in theatres during the Christmas holidays in 2000. The film, however, received an underwhelming response from audiences and eventually tanked at the box office. But, as always with good movies, Devadoothan found its audience over the years thanks to repeated telecasts on television. The film now enjoys a cult following and continues to expand its fanbase.

    "Without affecting the transformations that time has brought to all three of us, today we are giving you again the dream picture that we chose back then... You have the right to celebrate or criticize it... No complaints, no grievances, love, only love," wrote director Sibi Malayil on the re-release of Devadoothan.