Mohanlal’s latest commercial with 'feminine' charm takes the internet by storm

Malayalam cinema and its actors are well-known for paving the path with their innovative and fearless storytelling. Several films have redefined the approach to storytelling in Indian cinema. Be it crime, thriller or family-oriented films, the Malayalam cinema is considered two steps ahead of every other industry. Echoing the same, a new commercial featuring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has been buzzing online for the past couple of days.

The Barroz star, who delivered a soul-stirring performance in films like Drishyam 2, Neru and Thudarum, is grabbing headlines for his "Ladylike" mannerisms in the latest jewellery commercial.

In the newly released commercial for a jewellery brand, Mohanlal delivers an extraordinary performance, conveying everything through his expressions, without uttering a single line of dialogue.

Directed by the acclaimed Prakash Varma, the 110-second commercial kicks off with Mohanlal stepping out of a car, where filmmaker welcomes him on set. 'We’ve taken a fashion photography approach,' Prakash says, introducing the actor to model Shivani.

What begins as a candid behind-the-scenes shoot takes a sudden, playful twist. When Mohanlal is attracted by the diamond jewellery donned by Shivani, the scene subtly shifts. Moments later, Shivani leaves with Prakash, and the jewellery disappears. While the disappearance spreads panic among the workers, Mohanlal is seen making entry from his vanity van, rewriting the scene with his trademark style.

In the end, Mohanlal appears wearing the ornament and striking the feminine poses. Netizens are buzzing with excitement over his performance, while the commercial is receiving a mix of reactions from the audience. Many are upset with Mohanlal’s 'feminine avatar', especially considering his iconic history with masculine characters.

As expected, the ad has gone viral and was buzzing on social media over the weekend, with Mohanlal fans appreciating his ability to transition between personas. A user on X wrote 'Only Lalettan can do that (sic).' Many others followed him and called him 'the complete actor' with comments describing his performance as 'graceful,' 'natural,' and even 'cringe-worthy—but in the best way.’

Watch the video

Within 48 hours, the video has racked up millions of views and continues to attract comments and likes.

Director Prakash Varma, who worked with him in Thudarum, took to Instagram to post the video and praise his collaborator: “I got to witness something rare and special, up close. Mohanlal sir’s grace is unmatched. No one else can pull this off. Ever so grateful for his trust.”