‘Naslen is the second coming of Kamal Haasan,’ says Priyadarshan: ‘While watching films like Vishnu Vijayam…’

It is doubtful if there has ever been another filmmaker as successful and accomplished as Priyadarshan in the Malayalam film industry. Along with Mohanlal, the filmmaker has gifted the audience with several memorable movies such as Poochakkoru Mookkuthi, Boeing Boeing, Aram + Aram = Kinnaram, Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu, Thalavattam, Vellanakalude Nadu, Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu, Chithram, Vandanam, Akkare Akkare Akkare, Kilukkam, Thenmavin Kombath, Minnaram, and Chandralekha, among others. Hence, an endorsement from Priyadarshan is nothing short of a massive achievement, and the latest to receive one is actor Naslen K Gafoor.

Renowned for his performances in movies like Premalu, Alappuzha Gymkhana, Journey of Love 18+, and Jo and Jo, Naslen is among the most promising young actors in Malayalam, and the master filmmaker agrees. At the trailer launch of Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Priyadarshan’s daughter Kalyani and Naslen in the lead roles, the director drew a comparison between the Premalu actor and a young Kamal Haasan. He mentioned that Naslen carries the same mix of innocence and cheeky confidence that he once noticed in Kamal while watching his early Malayalam films like Vishnu Vijayam (1974).

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“Naslen is a favourite actor of mine. When I used to watch films like Vishnu Vijayam, I noticed the unique charm of Kamal Haasan as an actor. He exuded innocence while also conveying a cheeky confidence. Naslen feels like the second coming of that,” Priyadarshan said. Moved by the legendary filmmaker’s kind words, Naslen, who was present at the event, stood up and expressed his gratitude.

Watch Lokah Chapter 1 trailer here:

Penned and helmed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan under his banner Wayfarer Films, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra will hit the screens on August 28, coinciding with the Onam season, in direct clash with director Sathyan Anthikad’s Mohanlal-starrer Hridayapoorvam. Lokah features additional screenplay by Santhy Balachandran, cinematography by Nimish Ravi, editing by Chaman Chakko, and music by Jakes Bejoy.