Oct 10, 2026 10:00pm IST
‘Kaalapani’ 4K Rerelease: Mohanlal and Priyadarshan’s Classic Eyes Republic Day Return
One of Mohanlal and Priyadarshan’s acclaimed collaborations, the 1996 classic “Kaalapani,” is all set for a grand 4K remastered theatrical rerelease. The epic period drama stars Mohanlal as a man sent to the infamous Cellular Jail in the Andamans before Independence for a crime he didn’t commit. The film also features Hindi actors Tabu and Amrish Puri, Tamil actor Prabhu and a memorable musical score by legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja.
Though “Kaalapani” was only an average box-office grosser in 1996, it went on to attain classic status, sweeping the National Film Awards, including Best Cinematography for Santosh Sivan and Best Art Direction for Sabu Cyril, along with several State Awards.
The film is now being restored and remastered in 4K by Matinee Now and Prasad Corp, with plans for a multi-language theatrical release. Priyadarshan has also re-edited the final version, and the makers are eyeing a Republic Day release—fitting for this patriotic saga.
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Speaking exclusively to Variety India, Matinee Now Managing Director Ajith Rajan says, “We are remastering “Kaalapani” in 4K as we feel it was a classic that was ahead of its time and deserves to be restored for new audiences. We are planning to release it in multiple languages. Priyadarshan has re-edited the final copy and we are planning a Republic Day release as it is a patriotic film.”
He reveals that Matinee Now has a strategic tie-up with Prasad Studios for restoration work. The company then undertakes the 4K remastering, color grading, audio work, re-censoring and theatrical promotion/release.
The cost varies from film to film and includes rights from the original producer, with the final landing cost estimated at around ₹50–60 lakh.
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The 4K Rerelease Boom
A major boom is underway in the rerelease and restoration of Malayalam classics from the 1980s and 1990s. Films such as “Devadoothan” (1993), “Manichitrathazhu” (1993), “Spadikam” (1995), “Kireedam” and “Ravanaprabhu” are finding a whole new theatrical life after 4K restoration and Dolby Atmos upgrades.
Many of these films are already available on YouTube or satellite television. But restored prints, sharper 4K projection and immersive Dolby Atmos sound are bringing the theatre experience back and attracting Gen-Z audiences in a big way.
“Thenmavin Kombathu” (1994), Mohanlal and Priyadarshan’s hugely popular rural romantic comedy, which has been remastered by Matinee Now, hit the theatres on October 8. Mohanlal has often cited “Thenmavin Kombathu” as his favorite among his collaborations with Priyadarshan. Ajith Rajan adds, “The film was scanned from the original 35mm print using 4K technology, with a new Dolby Atmos sound mix, giving audiences an enhanced theatrical experience.”
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