The Drishyam movie franchise, a gripping tale of a family’s desperate attempt to cover up an accidental crime, has captivated audiences across India and beyond. Currently, there are three official Drishyam movies that have been released, each building upon the intricate web of suspense and intrigue established in the original film.
The Core Drishyam Films: A Journey Through Deception
The heart of the Drishyam universe lies in the core films that tell the story of Vijay Salgaonkar and his family.
Drishyam (2013) – The Malayalam Original
The first film, originally released in Malayalam in 2013, set the stage for the entire franchise. Directed by Jeethu Joseph, Drishyam introduced us to Vijay Salgaonkar (played by Mohanlal), a loving father and husband who runs a cable TV business in a remote village. When his daughter inadvertently kills the son of a powerful police officer, Vijay uses his cunning and resourcefulness, gleaned from his love of movies, to protect his family from the consequences. This film established the key themes of family loyalty, the power of deception, and the flaws within the justice system.
Drishyam (2015) – The Hindi Remake
The overwhelming success of the Malayalam Drishyam led to a Hindi remake in 2015, starring Ajay Devgn as Vijay Salgaonkar and directed by Nishikant Kamat. This version closely follows the plot of the original, bringing the story to a wider national audience. It achieved significant box office success and further solidified the popularity of the Drishyam narrative. While the Hindi remake remains faithful to the original, it offers a slightly different cultural perspective and visual style.
Drishyam 2 (2021) – The Sequel
Several years after the initial events, Drishyam 2 (also directed by Jeethu Joseph in Malayalam and released in 2021) revisits the Salgaonkar family. This film explores the long-term psychological effects of the incident and the lingering suspicion surrounding Vijay and his family. New evidence surfaces, reigniting the investigation and forcing Vijay to devise even more elaborate plans to protect his loved ones. Drishyam 2 further delves into the ethical complexities of Vijay’s actions and the moral grey areas he navigates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some of the most common questions about the Drishyam movie franchise:
Q1: Will there be a Drishyam 3?
The prospect of a Drishyam 3 is highly anticipated. The director, Jeethu Joseph, has confirmed that a script is in development, and both Mohanlal and Ajay Devgn have expressed interest in reprising their roles. However, as of the current date, there is no official release date or confirmation of production. The story is expected to explore the next chapter in the Salgaonkar family’s lives, potentially dealing with even greater challenges and consequences.
Q2: Are there any other remakes of Drishyam besides the Hindi version?
Yes, the success of the original Malayalam Drishyam spawned several international remakes. These include versions in Telugu (starring Venkatesh), Tamil (starring Kamal Haasan), Kannada (starring Ravichandran), and even Sinhalese (Sri Lanka). Each remake adapts the story to its respective cultural context, offering unique interpretations of the characters and situations.
Q3: What makes the Drishyam movies so popular?
The appeal of the Drishyam films lies in their clever plot, relatable characters, and exploration of universal themes such as family loyalty, the fight for survival, and the struggle against injustice. The audience is often captivated by Vijay Salgaonkar’s intelligence and resourcefulness, rooting for him even as he engages in morally questionable actions. The suspenseful narrative keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, constantly questioning what will happen next.
Q4: Who is the director of the original Drishyam movie?
Jeethu Joseph directed the original Malayalam Drishyam (2013) and its sequel, Drishyam 2 (2021). He is widely recognized for his masterful storytelling and ability to create suspenseful and engaging thrillers.
Q5: Who plays Vijay Salgaonkar in the Hindi Drishyam?
Ajay Devgn plays the role of Vijay Salgaonkar in the Hindi remake of Drishyam. His portrayal has been praised for its intensity and emotional depth.
Q6: What is Drishyam 2 about?
Drishyam 2 picks up several years after the events of the first film. While the Salgaonkar family has seemingly moved on, the past comes back to haunt them. A new investigation is launched, and Vijay must once again use his wits and cunning to protect his family from the authorities. The film explores the long-term psychological effects of the crime and the ever-present threat of exposure.
Q7: Where can I watch the Drishyam movies online?
The Drishyam movies are available on various streaming platforms, depending on your region. Popular options include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar. Check your local streaming services for availability.
Q8: Are the Drishyam movies based on a true story?
No, the Drishyam movies are not based on a true story. They are fictional narratives created by writer-director Jeethu Joseph. However, the films resonate with audiences because they tap into relatable fears and anxieties about protecting one’s family.
Q9: What is the main conflict in Drishyam?
The central conflict in Drishyam revolves around Vijay Salgaonkar’s efforts to protect his family from the legal consequences of an accidental crime. He is pitted against the police, who are determined to uncover the truth and bring him to justice. The conflict is further complicated by the emotional toll it takes on Vijay and his family.
Q10: Are there any spin-offs or related series to Drishyam?
Currently, there are no official spin-offs or related series to Drishyam. However, the franchise’s popularity has led to discussions about potential expansion of the universe in the future.
Q11: How faithful is the Hindi remake to the original Malayalam movie?
The Hindi remake of Drishyam is generally considered to be very faithful to the original Malayalam film. While there are some minor adaptations to suit the Hindi-speaking audience and cultural context, the core plot, characters, and themes remain largely unchanged.
Q12: What are the critical themes explored in the Drishyam movies?
The Drishyam movies explore several critical themes, including:
- Family loyalty: The lengths to which a father will go to protect his family.
- Justice vs. Injustice: The flaws within the legal system and the potential for abuse of power.
- Deception and Truth: The blurring lines between right and wrong when protecting loved ones.
- The Power of Knowledge: How information and planning can be used to manipulate situations.
- Moral Ambiguity: The exploration of grey areas in morality and the consequences of difficult choices.
In conclusion, the Drishyam movie franchise, consisting of the original Malayalam film and its subsequent remakes and sequels, stands as a testament to compelling storytelling and the enduring power of family. With the potential for future installments, the Drishyam universe promises to continue captivating audiences with its intricate plot twists and morally complex characters. The current tally stands at three official films defining the core storyline, enriched by numerous remakes across diverse linguistic landscapes.