Malayalam cinema’s most iconic crime thriller franchise returns with Drishyam 3, hitting theaters today (May 21, 2026) on the birthday of its legendary lead Mohanlal. Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the third chapter plunges the beloved Georgekutty family into another nail-biting battle of wits, this time exploring the psychological and emotional aftermath of their past secrets.
The Bottom Line Up Front
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 3.5/5 |
| Mohanlal’s Acting | ★★★★★ |
| Story & Suspense | ★★★★☆ |
| First Half | ★★★☆☆ |
| Second Half & Climax | ★★★★☆ |
Verdict: While Drishyam 3 doesn’t quite match the original’s shock value, Mohanlal’s commanding performance and a gripping climax make it a worthwhile watch for franchise fans.
Plot Summary: What’s the Story?
Set 4–5 years after Drishyam 2, Georgekutty (Mohanlal) has transformed into a successful theater owner and film producer. In an interesting twist, he’s produced a movie called Drishyam inspired by his family’s real-life incidents, which becomes a massive blockbuster and draws widespread media attention.
As the film gains popularity, audiences and journalists start connecting dots between the cinematic story and Georgekutty’s actual life. Old suspicions resurface, media scrutiny intensifies, and social media buzz explodes. A journalist named Varun begins working on a documentary about a related case, reopening wounds Georgekutty desperately wanted to keep buried.
Georgekutty finds himself trapped between protecting his family and safeguarding the secret he’s guarded for years. The film dives deep into the emotional and psychological toll of constant fear and the price of living a lie.
What Works in Drishyam 3
1. Mohanlal’s Masterclass Performance ⭐
Mohanlal is the heart and soul of Drishyam 3. The veteran actor delivers a nuanced, emotionally layered portrayal of Georgekutty’s psychological turmoil, showcasing why this character remains one of Malayalam cinema’s most compelling protagonists. His ability to convey fear, determination, and vulnerability with subtle expressions is simply outstanding.
2. Gripping Second Half & Climax
The climax delivers mind-bending twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. The second half makes up for the slower opening, building tension effectively and delivering the suspense fans expect from the Drishyam franchise.
3. Emotional Depth Over Pure Thriller Elements
Unlike the tightly-wound tension of earlier films, Drishyam 3 focuses more on Georgekutty’s emotional residue—the mental and psychological cost of his past actions, the constant fear of exposure, and the impact on his family relationships.
4. Jeethu Joseph’s Direction
Director Jeethu Joseph maintains the franchise’s signature blend of family drama and psychological tension. His storytelling remains engaging, balancing emotional beats with suspenseful moments.
Where Drishyam 3 Falls Short
1. Slow-Burning First Half ⚠️
The first half feels sluggish compared to the pulse-pounding openings of Drishyam and Drishyam 2. Instead of building immediate suspense, the film spends significant time exploring emotional aftermath and character psychology, which may test the patience of viewers expecting the old-school intensity.
2. Doesn’t Match the Original’s Magic
Drishyam 3 might not recreate the shock value and brilliance of the first film. Some viewers find it stretched out and feel it ranks lower than both previous installments in terms of pure thriller impact.
3. Missing the Classic “Masala”
The film is lighter than the first two parts, lacking the deeper story layers and intense drama that made the original so impactful. Those expecting the same level of gripping suspense may feel it’s slightly watered down.
Cast & Crew Details
Technical Aspects
- Cinematography: Quality visuals with strong lighting that enhances the thriller atmosphere
- Background Score: Effective music that builds tension during critical moments
- Editing: Well-paced, though the first half could have been tighter
- Production Values: High-quality production befitting a major franchise
Who Should Watch Drishyam 3?
✅ Definitely Watch If:
- You’re a fan of the Drishyam franchise
- You love Mohanlal’s acting
- You enjoy crime thrillers with emotional depth
- You appreciate psychological suspense over action
❌ May Want to Skip If:
- You expect the same intensity as Drishyam 1
- You prefer fast-paced thrillers from the first 30 minutes
- You’re not familiar with the previous films
Final Verdict
Drishyam 3 may not pack the same punch as the groundbreaking first installment, but it remains a solid, engaging crime thriller that franchise fans will appreciate. The film delivers enough suspense, drama, and emotional depth to justify its existence, with Mohanlal’s powerhouse performance anchoring the entire narrative.
Jeethu Joseph successfully crafts another chapter in the legendary saga, one that prioritizes psychological realism and family bonds over pure thriller mechanics. While it may not reach the heights of the original, it’s still a worthwhile theatrical experience for those invested in Georgekutty’s journey.
Box Office & Advance Booking
Drishyam 3 has generated massive buzz, with advance bookings crossing ₹25 crore before release, showcasing the franchise’s immense popularity and Mohanlal’s star power.
