What is Patriot?
Patriot is a high-stakes Malayalam spy thriller that brings together two of Malayalam cinema's biggest icons — Mammootty and Mohanlal — on screen together in a genre that Indian cinema has rarely attempted at this scale. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, known for his taut storytelling in Malik and Ariyippu, the film follows covert operatives as they uncover a surveillance conspiracy that threatens national security. With a third leading man in Kunchacko Boban, this is an espionage thriller built around three generations of actors, each bringing their distinct screen presence to a high-concept conspiracy plot. The film released in theatres on May 1, 2026 and has already generated significant box office momentum with strong opening day numbers across India.
Key Facts
Release Date: May 1, 2026 | Director: Mahesh Narayanan | Cast: Mammootty, Mohanlal, Kunchacko Boban
Language: Malayalam | Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller | Runtime: TBA | Box Office Day 1: ₹29.37 crore globally
Why It's Worth Watching
The biggest draw is the Mammootty-Mohanlal pairing — two legends who have shared screen space less than a handful of times in their decades-long careers, the most memorable being Dhruvam (1993) and Twenty:20 (2008). For fans of Malayalam cinema, a spy thriller with both actors in lead roles is an event in itself. Kunchacko Boban, who has been on a remarkable career run with films like Nna Thaan Case Kodu and Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, adds a contemporary edge to the cast, bridging the generational gap between the two icons. The premise — a surveillance conspiracy that escalates into a national security emergency — is familiar to spy thriller fans but elevated significantly by the weight of its cast.
Mahesh Narayanan's track record with political and crime dramas gives the project additional credibility. His 2021 film Malik, starring Fahadh Faasil, was widely regarded as one of the finest Malayalam political dramas of recent years, and his ability to build tension within grounded, realistic frameworks suggests Patriot will prioritise narrative depth over empty spectacle. Early reports indicate strong opening weekend collections, with the film grossing over ₹29 crore globally on day one and crossing ₹15 crore in India within the first two days, signalling both critical interest and strong commercial momentum. The film is also unique in that it marks one of the few times Mammootty and Mohanlal have committed to a multi-starrer that is not an ensemble comedy but a serious genre film.
Where to Watch / Book Tickets in India
Patriot is currently screening in theatres across India. The film is being shown in major multiplex chains including PVR, INOX and Cinepolis in all metros and tier-2 cities. Given the scale of its release and the star power involved, the film is widely available across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and select screens in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai. In Kerala, where the film is expected to draw the largest audience, shows are running at full capacity in cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Thrissur.
For Malayalam cinema fans looking to watch Patriot on the big screen with the best possible sound and picture quality, IMAX and 4DX screens in major metros are showing the film where available. PVR's premium formats like PXL and INOX's Insignia screens offer enhanced viewing experiences that are particularly suited to the action-thriller genre. Check showtimes at your nearest PVR or INOX for the best viewing experience in your city.
Save on Cinema Tickets via Magicpin
Booking Patriot tickets is better with magicpin. You can save on PVR and INOX tickets across India when you book through the magicpin app. Instead of paying full price at the counter, check the live offers on magicpin before your next cinema visit. Whether you're watching in Kerala, Bangalore, Chennai, or Mumbai, magicpin members get the best deals on movie tickets every day. With savings of up to 20% at PVR Cinemas and 18% at INOX, you can turn a regular movie outing into a genuine saving, especially if you're going in a group. The offers are updated regularly, so check the magicpin app before booking your Patriot tickets.
FAQs
Q: What is Patriot (2026) about?
A: Patriot is a Malayalam spy thriller starring Mammootty and Mohanlal. It follows covert operatives uncovering a surveillance conspiracy that escalates into a national security emergency.
Q: Who directed Patriot?
A: The film is directed by Mahesh Narayanan, known for award-winning films like Malik (2021) and Ariyippu (2022).
Q: Who is in the cast of Patriot?
A: The film features Mammootty, Mohanlal and Kunchacko Boban in lead roles, alongside a strong supporting cast.
Q: When did Patriot release in theatres?
A: Patriot released in cinemas on May 1, 2026, in Malayalam across India with dubbed versions in Tamil and Telugu expected in select markets.
Q: How much did Patriot earn at the box office on day one?
A: Patriot grossed ₹29.37 crore globally on its opening day, with strong collections across India and the Gulf region.
Q: Can I book Patriot tickets on magicpin?
A: Yes. Book Patriot tickets via magicpin and save on PVR and INOX cinema tickets with live offers including savings of up to 20% on PVR and 18% on INOX through the magicpin app.
