Kochi: Tamil filmmaker-actor Pradeep Ranganathan, who is currently promoting his new romantic comedy ‘Dude’, expressed his admiration for Malayalam cinema, especially Mohanlal’s films, during a press interaction in Kochi on Thursday.
Pradeep: “I’ve always wanted to do something like ‘Drishyam’”
Speaking at the Kerala leg of his promotional tour, Pradeep said that Jeethu Joseph’s ‘Drishyam’ is among his all-time favourite films. “I’ve always wanted to do something like that,” he said, adding that the film’s storytelling and emotional depth had a lasting impact on him.
Appreciates ‘Thudarum’ and its director
Pradeep also showered praise on another Mohanlal-starrer, ‘Thudarum’, calling it “amazing.” He shared that he recently spoke to the film’s director, Tharun Moorthy, to personally appreciate his work. “Great work by the director,” he remarked, highlighting how Malayalam cinema continues to inspire him.
‘Dude’ opens to positive early reactions
Meanwhile, Pradeep’s latest outing, ‘Dude’, co-starring Mamitha Baiju, has hit theatres and is off to a promising start. Early social media reactions suggest that the film’s first half is winning hearts with its humour and emotional balance.
A Twitter user wrote, “#Dude Blockbuster first half written all over it — fun, emotion and twist. Pradeep is back with a bang again… Wow loved it! Just a decent second half is enough now for #Dude Diwali.”
Another viewer added, “#Dude Engaging 1st Half! Though predictable, it hits all the beats of a proper rom-com. Comedy feels a bit off at first but lands well by the interval. 2nd Half Awaits!”
Pradeep’s comeback after ‘Love Today’ and ‘Dragon’
Fans are thrilled to see Pradeep return after his previous hits ‘Love Today’ and ‘Dragon’. With strong early buzz and positive word of mouth, trade analysts are watching to see if ‘Dude’ can recreate the magic of his earlier successes at the box office this Diwali.