Five Iconic Mohanlal Films That Became Bollywood Blockbusters

Drishyam is a suspense thriller directed by Jeethu Joseph that follows Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who takes extreme measures to safeguard his family after they become involved in a crime. Celebrated for its intricate screenplay and unexpected twists, the film received widespread acclaim. It marked a significant milestone as Mohanlal's first film to surpass the ₹50 crore mark, making it the first Malayalam film to achieve such success. The movie was later remade in several languages, including Hindi and Tamil. The Hindi adaptation, directed by Nishikant Kamat, stars Ajay Devgn in the role originally portrayed by Mohanlal.

Poochakkoru Mookkuthi, directed by Priyadarshan, is a celebrated Malayalam comedy that delves into a series of misunderstandings and coincidences among its characters, leading to comedic scenarios. This film is highly regarded as a prime example of situational comedy in Malayalam cinema. It was later remade in Hindi as Hungama (2003), with Priyadarshan at the helm once again. The Hindi version, featuring Akshaye Khanna, Paresh Rawal, and Aftab Shivdasani, successfully captures the original's humor and was praised for its comedic flair.

Directed by Priyadarshan, Boeing Boeing is a comedy that follows two friends caught in a tangled situation with multiple air hostesses, featuring slapstick humor and energetic performances. The film was remade in Hindi as Garam Masala (2005), with Priyadarshan also directing the remake. Starring Akshay Kumar and John Abraham, the Hindi version mirrors the original's plot, centering on the comedic chaos that arises as the protagonists juggle relationships with several women. Akshay Kumar's impeccable comic timing was particularly praised in the remake.

The movie directed by Sibi Malayil, Kireedam, featuring Mohanlal as Sethumadhavan, a man whose life is tragically disrupted by a wrongful accusation. The film explores themes of fate, family, and honor with deep emotional resonance. It was remade in Hindi as Gardish (1993), directed by Priyadarshan, with Jackie Shroff taking on the lead role. The Hindi adaptation faithfully retains the original’s intense and emotional narrative, focusing on the protagonist’s struggle against the forces that derail his life, and was widely praised for Jackie Shroff’s compelling performance.

Directed by Fazil, Manichitrathazhu is a psychological horror-thriller that follows Ganga, a woman possessed by the spirit of Nagavalli, a dancer wronged in the past. The film skillfully merges psychological elements with traditional beliefs, earning Shobana a National Award for her outstanding performance. The movie was remade in Hindi as Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007) by Priyadarshan, featuring Akshay Kumar as Dr. Aditya Shrivastav, who investigates the mystery surrounding Avni, played by Vidya Balan. The Hindi remake blends comedy and horror, becoming a cult classic and receiving particular acclaim for Vidya Balan’s performance.