Lucifer is a gripping Malayalam political action thriller directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran in his directorial debut, released in 2019. Scripted by Murali Gopy, the film is packed with intense drama, complex characters, and a riveting plot set in the political landscape of Kerala. With Mohanlal playing the enigmatic Stephen Nedumpally, the movie explores power struggles, corruption, and justice in contemporary Indian politics. Supported by a strong ensemble including Vivek Oberoi, Sai Kumar, Manju Warrier, Indrajith Sukumaran, and Tovino Thomas, Lucifer became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time and was praised for its compelling narrative and performances.

Plot Summary

The story begins with the demise of PK Ramdas (PKR), the highly influential and powerful Chief Minister of Kerala. His sudden death sets off intense power struggles within his ruling party, the Indian Union Front (IUF), as various factions jostle to succeed him.

Ramdas’s son-in-law, Bobby, a shrewd and ambitious businessman, aims to consolidate power by funding the party with illicit money, including drug trafficking and real estate scams. His covert operations involve dangerous deals with international crime syndicates, notably a diamond-gold nexus linked to global warlords.

Contrasting Bobby’s unscrupulous ambitions is Stephen Nedumpally (Mohanlal), PKR’s most trusted aide—a man with a mysterious past, rumored to have played a decisive role in war zones abroad and reputed to be both a savior and a destroyer in political and criminal circles.

As the election draws near, an intense battle unfolds between Bobby and Stephen. Stephen, backed by loyalists, fights against the criminalization of politics and the decay within the party. A series of high-stakes confrontations, killings, media manipulations, and political twists keep the tension high.

Stephen’s strategies reveal hidden truths, expose corruption, and neutralize threats through a combination of tactical intelligence and sheer force.

The climax culminates in a spectacular showdown where Stephen eliminates Bobby and his henchmen, ensuring justice and political renewal. The film ends with hints of Stephen’s deeper mysteries and his influence stretching beyond Kerala.

Characters and Performances

Stephen Nedumpally (Mohanlal):

Mohanlal’s commanding performance as Stephen is the film’s cornerstone. Projected as a political Godfather and master tactician, his stoic intensity, layered emotions, and charismatic presence make the character unforgettable.

Bobby (Vivek Oberoi):

Making his Malayalam debut, Vivek delivers a menacing and elegant portrayal of the antagonist, balancing charm with ruthless ambition.

Priyadarshini Ramdas (Manju Warrier):

Priyadarshini is PKR’s elder daughter and embodies the moral and emotional complexity of political families. Manju Warrier brings depth and grace to the role.

Jathin Ramdas (Indrajith Sukumaran):

The younger son of PKR, Jathin’s character is caught between family loyalty and personal ambition, portrayed with subtlety.

Supporting Cast:

Sai Kumar, Tovino Thomas, Malavika Mohanan, Baiju Santhosh, and others contribute powerful performances, enriching the political and emotional tapestry.

Themes Explored

Political Power and Corruption:

The film delves into the murky nexus between politicians, crime syndicates, and business interests, exposing systemic corruption.

Loyalty and Betrayal:

Complex relationships and shifting alliances underscore a world where trust is fragile, and survival demands ruthless choices.

Justice and Revenge:

Stephen’s path symbolizes the fight for justice amid chaos, where retribution is a tool for restoring order.

Media and Manipulation:

The narrative highlights the role of media in shaping public opinion and political fortunes.

Mystery and Duality:

Stephen’s secretive past and ambiguous actions add layers of intrigue, exploring themes of identity and morality.

Direction and Cinematic Elements

Prithviraj’s directorial debut is marked by slick, stylish filmmaking, with tight control over narrative pacing. The screenplay is layered with electrifying dialogues, political intrigue, and dramatic tension.

Cinematographer Sujith Vasudev captures both the grandeur and grit of Kerala’s political scene, balancing intimate moments with high-energy sequences.

Action choreography and editing intensify suspense and provide a cinematic spectacle fitting for a mass audience, while the background score accentuates mood swings effectively.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Lucifer received widespread acclaim for its engaging storyline and powerful performances. It achieved blockbuster status, becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films ever, and garnered numerous awards, boosting Prithviraj’s directorial reputation and reaffirming Mohanlal’s star status.

It opened avenues for more political thrillers in Malayalam cinema and set modern standards for star-driven commercial films.

Memorable Scenes

• The intense political meetings revealing power plays.

• The tactical assassinations arranged by Stephen.

• The emotional moments showcasing family tension and grief.

• Dramatic confrontations between Stephen and Bobby.

• The climactic showdown with explosive tension and brutal action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who directed Lucifer?

Prithviraj Sukumaran directed the film.

Who starred as Stephen Nedumpally?

Mohanlal played Stephen Nedumpally.

What is the film about?

The film explores political power struggles in Kerala following the death of the Chief Minister PK Ramdas, focusing on the battle between corrupt politicians and Stephen, the CM’s loyal aide.

Is Lucifer a political thriller?

Yes, it is a political action thriller with drama and intrigue.

Was Vivek Oberoi’s performance notable?

Yes, his debut in Malayalam cinema as the antagonist Bobby was critically praised.

What themes does the film cover?

Themes include political corruption, justice, loyalty, betrayal, media manipulation, and morality.

Did the film perform well commercially?

Lucifer was a major commercial success, breaking box office records.

Is Lucifer part of a franchise?

Yes, a sequel titled The King & The Commissioner was released, continuing the story.

Lucifer is a provocative, high-octane political thriller that combines stellar performances, sharp writing, and gripping direction to tell an engaging story of power, corruption, and redemption. It remains a milestone in Malayalam cinema and a must-watch for fans of political dramas and action films.