Malayalam cinema and its actors are renowned for their innovative and bold storytelling. Numerous films have transformed the narrative style in Indian cinema. Whether it’s crime, thriller, or family-centric films, Malayalam cinema is regarded as being two steps ahead of other industries. In line with this, a new commercial featuring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has been trending online for the last few days.

The Barroz star, known for his moving performances in films such as Drishyam 2, Neru, and Thudarum, is making headlines for his ‘Ladylike’ mannerisms in the latest jewellery advertisement.

In the recently launched commercial for a jewellery brand, Mohanlal delivers an exceptional performance, expressing everything through his facial expressions without saying a single word.

Directed by the esteemed Prakash Varma, the 110-second commercial begins with Mohanlal exiting a car, where the filmmaker greets him on set. ‘We’ve adopted a fashion photography style,’ Prakash states, introducing the actor to model Shivani.

What starts as a candid behind-the-scenes shoot takes an unexpected, playful turn. When Mohanlal is captivated by the diamond jewellery worn by Shivani, the scene subtly transitions. Moments later, Shivani departs with Prakash, and the jewellery vanishes. While the sudden disappearance causes a stir among the crew, Mohanlal is seen making his entrance from his vanity van, rewriting the scene with his signature flair.

Ultimately, Mohanlal is seen adorned with the ornament and adopting feminine poses. Netizens are abuzz with enthusiasm regarding his performance, while the advertisement is eliciting a variety of responses from viewers. A number of individuals are displeased with Mohanlal’s ‘feminine avatar’, particularly in light of his renowned legacy of masculine roles.

As anticipated, the advertisement has gone viral, generating significant chatter on social media over the weekend, with fans of Mohanlal commending his skill in shifting between different personas. One user on X remarked, ‘Only Lalettan can do that (sic).’ Many others echoed this sentiment, referring to him as ‘the complete actor’ and describing his performance with terms like ‘graceful,’ ‘natural,’ and even ‘cringe-worthy—but in the best way.’

In just 48 hours, the video has accumulated millions of views and continues to draw in comments and likes.

Director Prakash Varma, who collaborated with him on Thudarum, shared the video on Instagram, praising his colleague: “I had the privilege of witnessing something rare and extraordinary, up close. Mohanlal sir’s elegance is unparalleled. No one else can achieve this. I am ever so thankful for his trust.”