The release of Tovino Thomas’ much-awaited film ‘Pallichattambi’ has been postponed from April 10 to April 15 to coincide with the Vishu festival. The delay occurred due to technical difficulties in obtaining the censor certificate caused by the ongoing election code of conduct in Kerala.
Reason for postponement
The team issued a statement explaining the shift. They noted that obtaining the censor certificate became challenging due to the election code of conduct.They said, “We are facing technical difficulties in obtaining the censor certificate due to the election code of conduct. As a result, we have had to shift the release to April 15, Vishu day. We hope audiences will continue to support us.”
Story and setting of ‘Pallichattambi’
‘Pallichattambi’ is a period drama set in the late 1950s in Kerala’s high ranges. It revolves around migrant farming communities and tells the story of an extraordinary ‘chattambi’ (ruffian) from the renaissance era.
Director’s vision
Director Dijo Jose Antony explained the significance of the title. He told The New Indian Express, “Pallichattambi isn’t just a name. It’s more like a title or identity. Back in the 1950s and 60s, terms like ‘chattambi’ were used to describe someone with influence or authority in a locality. Today, we might loosely compare it to a local strongman. In our film, pallichattambi represents the central figure of a place, the hero of that region.”He admitted that balancing period authenticity with commercial elements was challenging but rewarding.
Star cast and production of Tovino Thomas’ film
Tovino Thomas leads the cast as the central character. Kayadu Lohar and Vijayaraghavan play important roles, with Prashanth Alexander, Baburaj, Johny Antony, and Sudheer Karamana in supporting parts.The film is written by S Suresh Babu and produced on a big budget and the expectations are high.
Anticipation for Vishu release
The shift to April 15 aligns the film with the festive Vishu holiday, which is expected to boost theatre footfalls. The makers believe the new date will allow more families to watch the film together and also the trailer which was unveiled by the makers recently, received good responses online.