Malayalam cinema appears to be venturing into the unsettling domain of supernatural entities in 2025. Following the announcements of Gaganachari director Arun Chandu's Vala and the zombie film Jambi, a vampire movie titled Half has also been revealed. It is indeed surprising that Malayalam cinema, traditionally recognized for balancing artistic and commercial elements, is exploring such eerie themes. OTTplay had the opportunity to speak with Half's director, Samjad, who provided exclusive insights regarding this film centred on 'half vampires.'

Half is a vampire action thriller: Samjad

In a recent interview with Samjad, the director known for the thriller film Golam, he shared insights regarding his forthcoming Malayalam project titled Half.

Describing the film's genre, Samjad clarified that it is a vampire action thriller rather than a horror film centred on vampires. 

“It is a vampire action thriller. The film will emphasize action and combat. As indicated in the tagline of Half, it will tell the story of two half-vampires (half human and half vampire). Ranjith Sajeev, who appeared in Golam, will portray one of the vampires,” Samjad elaborated.

In response to inquiries regarding the female lead of the film, Samjad confirmed that the role of the half-vampire will indeed be portrayed by an actress, although he hesitated to disclose her name due to ongoing discussions. “Negotiations are currently underway. There are some scheduling conflicts, so I cannot reveal the name at this moment. However, we will announce the female lead soon,” the director, who made his debut with Golam, assured.

Further elaborating on the cast, Samjad indicated that actors from outside Kerala would also be included. Given that the film is action-oriented, they have enlisted experts from outside the state for fight choreography.

“Thrilling action is the film's main attraction,” he remarked.

Recently, a poster for Half was unveiled, featuring the tagline: ‘Vampires, Vengeance, and much more... Unveiling "HALF".. Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled experience.’

In addition to the lead role, Samjad will be collaborating with his Golam co-writer Praveen to co-author the script. A sequel to Golam was also previously announced.

Half to go on floors in March

The pre-production is already underway and considering the genre, it would take time. The shooting will begin in March, the young filmmaker said, and that the team plans to release the film by the end of this year.

Samjad on zombie movies in Malayalam

Inquire about additional zombie films, specifically Arun Chandu’s Vala and George Kora's Jambi. Samjad expressed that it appears 2025 will be a significant year for both zombies and vampires.

“I am also enthusiastic about the production of these films in Malayalam. My decision to pursue a vampire film following Golam stems from the thrill of exploring genres that are relatively underrepresented, particularly in Malayalam cinema,” he stated.

Vala features Gokul Suresh, Aju Varghese, and Anarkali Marikar, whereas Jambi will include Pearle Maaney.

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