Actor accused of ghost-directing hit film

A significant dispute has arisen within the Malayalam film industry concerning the directorial credit for the successful film 'Malikappuram.' Producer Murali Kunnumpurath publicly claimed that actor Unni Mukundan was the actual ghost director of the movie. This assertion was swiftly challenged by director Vishnu Sasi Shankar and writer Abhilash Pillai.

Director Vishnu Sasi Shankar acknowledged Unni Mukundan's past support but suggested that differences of opinion might be the root of the current conflict. He also alluded to Mukundan's potential indirect involvement in controversies surrounding the film 'Sumathi Valavu.' Adding fuel to the fire, Unni Mukundan posted a cryptic 'Ghost' on social media, which many interpreted as a response to the ghost-directing allegations.

Writer Abhilash Pillai strongly criticized Unni Mukundan during a press conference, denouncing alleged attempts to undermine filmmakers and technicians. Pillai accused Mukundan of claiming success for himself while blaming directors for failures. He further alleged that a deliberate public relations campaign was underway to discredit Vishnu Sasi Shankar and falsely attribute 'Malikappuram's' success to Mukundan.

Pillai detailed instances of alleged interference, including Mukundan advising the producer against signing him for 'Sumathi Valavu.' He stated that while Mukundan's involvement in future projects is positive, he should also extend support to other producers who incurred losses from films released between 'Malikappuram' and Mukundan's subsequent movie, 'Marco.'