Aashiq Abu's second directorial effort, Salt N' Pepper, is frequently recognized for initiating a new era in Malayalam cinema. Following this, the director produced several well-received and popular films, including 22 Female Kottayam, Mayaanadhi, and Virus. However, his most recent works, Neelavelicham and Naradan, did not perform well at the box office.

Currently, the esteemed filmmaker is preparing for the release of Rifle Club, which has generated considerable excitement due to its impressive ensemble cast, unique promotional materials, and captivating trailer. The question remains whether this film will alter the trajectory of Aashiq Abu, whose last project to achieve both critical and commercial acclaim was Virus in 2019.

Rifle Club to commemorate Aashiq Abu's return?

Rifle Club complete cast.

Rifle Club features an impressive cast of distinguished actors, including Vijayaraghavan, Dileesh Pothan, Darshana Rajendran, Vani Viswanath, Vineeth Kumar, and Unnimaya Prasad in key roles. Additionally, the film represents the Malayalam debut of the renowned director and actor Anurag Kashyap, while the well-known rapper Hanumankind is set to make his acting debut in this anticipated action thriller.

A narrative filled with intense and dynamic events.

The film is reported to center on a rifle club where a group of hunters collaborates to take on an arms dealer. The recently released trailer offers a preview of the eccentric characters set against a colonial backdrop, all armed and ready, suggesting that the film will deliver a unique action experience. The dynamic trailer concludes with dramatic shooting scenes, paving the way for an ultimate confrontation.

Syam Pushkaran's literary work.

The film Rifle Club boasts not only a remarkable ensemble cast and director but also an exceptional team of writers, spearheaded by Syam Pushkaran. Pushkaran, who received the National Award for Best Screenplay for Maheshinte Prathikaram, is joined by Dileesh Karunakaran and Suhas. He has previously partnered with Aashiq Abu on notable projects such as Salt n’ Pepper, 22 Female Kottayam, Idukki Gold, and Mayaanadhi. Additionally, Syam frequently collaborates with filmmaker-actor Dileesh Pothan, who plays a significant role in Rifle Club. With such esteemed talents uniting for this project, audiences can anticipate a remarkable cinematic experience.

Aashiq Abu's directorial approach.

Since his debut in 2009, Aashiq Abu has explored a diverse range of films across various genres. His acclaimed work, Salt n’ Pepper, was a refreshing addition to the cinematic landscape for the Malayali audience. Following this, his directorial venture 22 Female Kottayam, featuring Rima Kallingal and Fahadh Faasil, captivated viewers with a gripping climax that garnered significant attention. Additionally, Mayaanadhi, starring Tovino Thomas and Aishwarya Lekshmi, has been praised for its contemporary exploration of love and sexuality. Aashiq Abu's film Virus also showcased a talented ensemble cast and depicted the aftermath of the real-life Nipah outbreak in Kerala.

However, his recent projects, Neelavelicham and Naradan, did not resonate with audiences, despite featuring well-known actors like Tovino Thomas. The director is now poised to make a strong return with Rifle Club, aiming to reestablish his status among Kerala's leading filmmakers.

Rifle Club is set to premiere in theaters on December 19, 2024.

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