Mohanlal returns as Georgekutty in Drishyam 3, the third instalment of the hit thriller franchise directed by Jeethu Joseph, which released in cinemas on May 21 amid strong anticipation and robust advance bookings. The film has opened to significant trade interest, with early indicators pointing to a strong box office start across domestic and overseas markets…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Mohanlal returns as Georgekutty in Drishyam 3, the third instalment of the popular thriller franchise directed by Jeethu Joseph, which arrived in cinemas on May 21 amid heightened anticipation and strong advance booking momentum.
The film has generated substantial pre-release interest, with worldwide pre-sales reportedly crossing ₹21 crore ahead of release day. Kerala has led domestic performance with around ₹5.50 crore in advance bookings, while all-India sales are nearing ₹9 crore. Overseas markets have also shown strong turnout, particularly in the Gulf, North America, the United Kingdom and Australia.
Trade observers suggest that if the momentum continues, global advance bookings could exceed ₹25 crore before the first screening. Industry estimates further indicate a potential worldwide opening gross of over ₹35 crore, placing Drishyam 3 among the strongest openings in Malayalam cinema history if projections hold.
The film features a returning ensemble cast including Meena, Ansiba Hassan, Esther Anil, Murali Gopy, Siddique, Asha Sharath, Santhi Mayadevi and Veena Nandakumar. It continues the story of Georgekutty as past events resurface and new threats begin to unsettle his family life, adding new layers of tension to the long-running narrative.
Audience response on release day has highlighted strong engagement with the film’s pacing and structure, with social media discussions focusing on its suspense build-up and mid-film twist. Many viewers have pointed to a particularly impactful interval section, which has become a key talking point among fans following early screenings.
Reports suggest that Drishyam 3 could arrive on Amazon Prime Video in late June or early July after completing its theatrical run, although no official confirmation has been issued by the makers regarding its digital release window.
The release of Drishyam 3 has also coincided with Mohanlal’s birthday, adding to the celebratory atmosphere among fans and colleagues across the Indian film industry. Several prominent actors and filmmakers shared public messages marking the occasion.
Mammootty wrote, “Heartfelt birthday wishes to dear Lalin (smiley face).”
Director Tharun Moorthy said, ” Happy birthday to My Idol, My Inspiration , My Hero Mohanlal.”
Telugu actor Vishnu Manchu shared a longer tribute, stating, “Happy Birthday, Lalettan. Some people become stars. Very few become emotions. You’ve inspired generations with your art, but what I admire most is the incredible human being behind the legend. Your warmth, simplicity, and grace make people love you even more beyond cinema.”
Nivin Pauly also extended his wishes, saying, ” Wishing the one and only Lalettan, a very happy birthday. And what a perfect day to celebrate cinema, wishing the entire team of #Drishyam3 a grand release today.”
Director Jeethu Joseph posted a photograph and wrote, ” Happy birthday dear Laletta.”
Drishyam 3 continues the long-running thriller saga that began with the original Drishyam and was followed by its successful sequel, both of which established Georgekutty as one of Malayalam cinema’s most recognisable characters. The third instalment once again places him at the centre of a tense narrative where his past actions begin to resurface, testing his ability to protect his family.
The film had originally been scheduled for an earlier release date but was postponed before finally arriving in cinemas on May 21. Its arrival has been widely positioned as one of the major Malayalam film releases of the year, driven by franchise popularity, star power and sustained audience curiosity over the continuation of Georgekutty’s story.
