Chennai: Malayalam superstar Mohanlal’s limited screen time in Jailer 2 has disappointed some fans, and the debate has intensified after his personal stylist and costume designer, Jishad Shamsudeen, alleged that three distinct looks created for the actor were removed from the final cut.
Jishad also claimed that a scene featuring Mohanlal in the film’s trailer was shortened in the theatrical version. His remarks have raised fresh questions among fans about the extent of the actor’s role in the Rajinikanth-starrer, which was released in theatres on October 15.
Mohanlal reprises his role as Mathew in the sequel to Nelson Dilipkumar’s 2023 blockbuster Jailer. His appearance in the first film had generated considerable excitement, with fans looking forward to seeing more of the Malayalam star alongside Rajinikanth.
However, the reported cuts have left some viewers questioning why the actor’s role was not more substantial. Jishad’s public criticism has added another dimension to the debate, particularly after he said he would not be involved in a possible third instalment.
Mohanlal’s stylist alleges three looks were removed
Following the release of Jailer 2, Jishad Shamsudeen expressed disappointment in a post on Instagram, claiming that three of Mohanlal’s distinct looks had been removed from the film.
He said he had been confident about the work put into the actor’s appearance during production, even when Mohanlal was shown only briefly in the trailer.
“With the release of Jailer 2, I want to share an important update!! Based on what was shot, I was completely confident in our work—even when reduced to a 2-second glimpse in the trailer. But with the film’s release, three of Mohanlal Sir’s distinct looks were cut entirely, and even that trailer scene was trimmed out,” Jishad wrote.
The stylist’s statement suggests that the final theatrical version differed from what had been filmed, at least in the portions involving Mohanlal’s appearance.
However, his post did not explain why the looks were removed or whether the changes were connected to the film’s narrative, editing requirements, creative decisions or running time.
The filmmakers have not been quoted responding to Jishad’s allegations in the account available here. The reasons behind the reported cuts therefore remain unclear.
Stylist says he will not return for a sequel
Jishad also criticised the decision to reduce scenes featuring an actor of Mohanlal’s stature. He said the experience had influenced his willingness to work on a possible continuation of the franchise.
“From my experience in cinema, trimming scenes involving a superstar like Mohanlal Sir is simply unnecessary. Seeing our superstar reduced like this, if there is a sequel, I will not be a part of it. I am truly sorry to everyone who trusted me,” he wrote.
The statement has drawn attention because Jishad has worked closely with Mohanlal on his styling and costume requirements. His comments reflect his disappointment with the final version of the film, although they do not establish who made the editing decisions or why.
The stylist also said that his priorities extended beyond commercial considerations and box-office success.
“I don’t stand for favours, profits, crore clubs, or stardom. I stand solely for the fans, lovers of the craft, and Mohanlal Sir. Thank you for always standing by my journey,” he added.
His remarks have since become part of the wider discussion about the actor’s role in Jailer 2 and the expectations surrounding his appearance.
Mohanlal fans question his limited screen time
Mohanlal’s brief appearance has prompted disappointment among some fans on social media. Several viewers had expected the actor to have a more substantial presence in the sequel, particularly after the response to his character in the first Jailer.
Some fans questioned why the Malayalam superstar was brought back if his role was not going to receive more screen time. Others urged him to be more selective about cameo appearances in films where his character might not have a significant part in the story.
The reactions reflect the expectations surrounding Mohanlal’s return as Mathew, whose appearance in the original film was one of its widely discussed elements.
Jishad’s allegations have given fans another reason to question the extent of Mohanlal’s role. However, the stylist’s account does not establish how much footage was removed overall or whether the cuts materially changed the character’s contribution to the story.
The discussion also highlights how brief appearances by major stars can become a talking point when audiences expect a larger role based on the actor’s popularity or earlier appearance in a franchise.
Mohanlal’s role as Mathew in the Jailer franchise
Mohanlal played Mathew in the first Jailer, appearing alongside Rajinikanth as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian. His character’s association with the larger story helped generate interest in the possibility of seeing the two stars together again.
For Jailer 2, expectations were high among fans hoping for a stronger on-screen combination between the actors. The latest controversy, however, centres on whether the final cut delivered the amount of Mohanlal content that viewers had anticipated.
The reported removal of three looks does not, by itself, establish how extensive the cuts were or how they affected the film’s overall narrative. That assessment would require further information about the footage originally filmed and the decisions made during editing.
For now, the issue remains centred on Jishad’s claims and the reactions they have prompted among fans.
What we know about Jailer 2
Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, Jailer 2 features Rajinikanth as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian, with Ramya Krishnan returning as his wife, Vijaya Pandian. Mohanlal reprises his role as Mathew, while Shiva Rajkumar and Jackie Shroff also return to the franchise.
The ensemble cast includes Yogi Babu, Mirnaa, S J Suryah, Vidya Balan, Suraj Venjaramoodu and Mithun Chakraborty, among others. The film is produced by Sun Pictures, with Anirudh Ravichander composing the music, Vijay Kartik Kannan handling cinematography and R Nirmal serving as editor.
The sequel brings together performers from several film industries, continuing the franchise’s approach of featuring prominent actors in key roles and special appearances.
Controversy leaves questions unanswered
Jishad Shamsudeen’s allegations have intensified the discussion around Mohanlal’s screen time in Jailer 2. His claim that three looks were removed, along with his statement about the trailer scene being shortened, has prompted fans to question the choices made in the final edit.
At the same time, the stylist has not provided an explanation for why the changes were made, and no response from the filmmakers has been included in the available account. The allegations should therefore be distinguished from any confirmed explanation of the film’s editing process.
For Mohanlal’s fans, the central concern remains whether the actor’s role received the screen presence they expected. Until the filmmakers clarify the reported cuts, the reasons behind the changes—and whether they were driven by creative or practical considerations—remain unknown.