Prithviraj Sukumaran's Khalifa released amid mixed early reviews

The Malayalam action crime thriller Khalifa, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and directed by Vysakh, was released in theaters on August 20 as part of the 2026 Onam season. The film follows the character Mambarakkal Aamir Ali in a story involving family, vengeance, and gold smuggling.

Early audience reactions on social media have been mixed. While the film is noted for providing Prithviraj Sukumaran with significant star power and mass appeal, some viewers have criticized the pacing and the screenplay, specifically noting that the first half may feel too long.

The cast includes Neil Nitin Mukesh, making his Malayalam film debut, as well as Indrans, Sanju Sivaram, and Shammi Thilakan. A notable cameo by Mohanlal, playing the character Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, has been highlighted as a major highlight of the production.