Malayalam film producer and actor Antony Perumbavoor has publicly addressed the ongoing discourse surrounding the limited screen time of superstar Mohanlal in the action-drama 'Jailer 2'. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and starring Rajinikanth, the film has faced criticism from fans who were disappointed to find that several scenes featuring Mohanlal, which were included in the promotional trailer, were missing from the final theatrical cut of the movie.
Responding to queries from the media, Perumbavoor confirmed that neither Mohanlal nor his team had any prior knowledge that these specific sequences would be excluded from the version released in theatres. The producer expressed his own dissatisfaction with the editorial choices, noting, "Malayalis weren't generally happy about it. So are we."
The anticipation for Mohanlal’s return in the sequel was high, driven by the significant impact his character, Mathew, had in the first 'Jailer' film. His role in the initial instalment was widely praised by audiences, creating high expectations for his involvement in the second chapter. The sudden reduction of his presence in the theatrical release sparked a wave of negative reactions among the fanbase, who questioned why footage highlighted in marketing materials did not make the final edit.
In addition to the concerns regarding screen time, questions had emerged regarding the use of a body double for the actor in certain sequences, specifically during the climax. Speculation intensified after mimicry artist Joby Kodakara shared photographs of himself dressed in the 'Mathew' costume on the day the film was released, leading some viewers to believe the production relied heavily on a substitute for the superstar.
Addressing these claims, Joby Kodakara provided a detailed clarification during an interview with the YouTube channel 'Jango Space'. He explained that his involvement was strictly limited to a few specific shots due to scheduling or time constraints. Kodakara confirmed that his contribution was confined to glimpses of hands and legs during an airport scene, specifically while changing gears or pressing an accelerator, and asserted that his face was never used in the film.
Kodakara further addressed the rumours surrounding his appearance in the climax, stating, "My face has not been shown anywhere in the film. The face that people claim was used in the climax is not mine." He expressed regret for posting the set photographs, acknowledging that the act inadvertently fuelled the controversy. He maintained that no professional director would replace a leading actor with a body double for a close-up shot.
Despite the controversy surrounding the editorial cuts and the use of a body double, 'Jailer 2' has maintained a strong commercial run in cinemas. According to reports, the action drama has achieved a worldwide gross collection of Rs 776.95 crore within 16 days of its release. The film is currently on track to reach the Rs 800 crore milestone at the global box office, reflecting sustained interest from the audience regardless of the internal production concerns raised by fans and associates.
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