The most anticipated Malayalam film of the year, ‘Patriot’, starring legends Mammootty and Mohanlal, is set for its digital premiere. The spy political thriller will begin streaming on ZEE5 from June 5, 2026, just over a month after its theatrical release on May 1, 2026 . The platform will offer the film in five languages – Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada – making it accessible to a pan-Indian audience .
Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, ‘Patriot’ marks the on-screen reunion of the two superstars after nearly 18 years. Mammootty plays Daniel James, a senior scientific adviser who discovers a dangerous spyware programme being misused as part of a larger political conspiracy . Mohanlal appears in an extended cameo as Rahim, a former military operative who joins forces with Daniel to expose the surveillance network. The film also features an ensemble cast including Fahadh Faasil, Nayanthara, Kunchacko Boban, and Revathi .
The film explores timely themes of digital surveillance, weaponization of personal data, and state power. Unlike traditional mass action entertainers, ‘Patriot’ is described as a slow-burn cyber thriller that prioritizes suspense and intrigue over conventional elevation scenes . The narrative focuses on the implications of illegal monitoring on civilians, journalists, and activists, raising questions about privacy and public accountability .
‘Patriot’ had a strong theatrical run, collecting approximately ₹29.1 crore globally on its opening day and finishing with a worldwide total of nearly ₹80 crore . The film received mixed critical reviews, with praise for Mammootty’s performance and the film’s layered storytelling, while some found its pacing slow . With its OTT release, the film is expected to reach a wider audience who missed its theatrical run, as well as viewers curious about this historic on-screen collaboration .