Drishyam 3 Hits Theatres: Audience Reactions and Box Office Debut

The latest entry in the Drishyam film series, titled Drishyam 3, has made its theatrical debut, rekindling interest among fans of the franchise starring Mohanlal.

Drishyam 3, released on May 21, 2026, features the remaining core cast including Meena, Ansiba Hassan, and Esther Anil, and is helmed by director Jeethu Joseph. The film continues the story of Georgekutty, portrayed by Mohanlal, who finds himself facing new challenges as he strives to protect his family yet again.

Overview of the Film The narrative focuses on Georgekutty's unwavering determination to shield his family from external threats. Following the story arcs of the previous films, where he successfully outsmarted those who sought to harm them, Drishyam 3 introduces a new character, Avira, played by Nikhil Nair. The plot unfolds as Avira becomes romantically involved with Georgekutty's daughter, Anju George.

Critics have praised Mohanlal for delivering a compelling performance, particularly in emotionally charged scenes. Other cast members, including Meena and young actresses Ansiba Hassan and Esther Anil, have also been acknowledged for their strong contributions. The film is particularly noted for its portrayal of familial bonds amidst dire circumstances.

Technical Aspects and Cinematic Execution The cinematography by Satheesh Kurup has captured the lush landscapes of Kerala, enriching the film's visual appeal. The film opts for a minimalist approach to music, employing a background score by Anil Johnson that adds to the tension. However, critiques have emerged regarding the pacing and structure of the screenplay, notably in the first half, which some viewers found dragging.

Positive Feedback The performances, especially that of Mohanlal, have drawn commendations from audiences and reviewers alike. Viewers appreciated the film's emotionally engaging second half, which offered relief from the slow build-up earlier on.

Negative Critiques Conversely, some reviewers have pointed out that the writing lacked the gripping tension that characterised earlier films in the series. Elements like a predictable plot twist and leisurely pacing were cited as weaknesses. Despite these concerns, the end of the film manages to deliver satisfying moments for fans expecting Georgekutty to devise clever strategies once again.

Box Office Performance The film had a strong start at the box office, accumulating impressive ticket sales on its opening day. Drishyam 3 reported advance bookings totalling ₹35.27 crore globally, marking it as the second highest pre-sale record for a Malayalam film, closely following Mohanlal's previous hit, L2: Empuraan.

In India, Kerala stood out as the lead market, contributing approximately ₹8.52 crore. Other states, including Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, also supported the film’s launch, further affirming Drishyam 3's commercial potential compared to previous outings. The film's advance bookings reflected significant interest, signalling a robust opening despite mixed reviews.

Conclusion In summary, Drishyam 3 has successfully captured the attention of fans, although it faces critical scrutiny over its narrative execution. While Mohanlal's performance remains a highlight, the film's overall reception suggests that viewer expectations may temper its long-term success. As audiences continue to flock to theatres, the full impact of Drishyam 3 on the franchise and box office awaits clearer assessment in the coming weeks.