‘Dies Irae’: Pranav Mohanlal’s horror thriller gets Halloween 2025 release - first look out

The first look of Dies Irae, a horror thriller starring Pranav Mohanlal and directed by Rahul Sadasivan, has been unveiled.

Produced by Chakravarthy Ramachandra and S. Sasikanth under Night Shift Studios and YNOT Studios, the film is slated for release on Halloween, October 31, 2025.

This marks Sadasivan’s third horror film following the critically acclaimed Bramayugam (2024) and Bhoothakaalam (2022). The Latin title Dies Irae, meaning “Day of Wrath,” hints at a powerfully intense narrative.

Director Rahul Sadasivan's previous outing, 'Bramayugam' starring Mammootty, was a significant critical and commercial success, earning Rs600 million globally. The film, featuring Mammootty as the enigmatic sorcerer Kodumon Potty, garnered praise for its striking black-and-white visuals and compelling performances.

Mysterious tone

The newly unveiled poster for 'Dies Irae' establishes a distinctly mysterious and gothic atmosphere. While the narrative remains tightly guarded, the filmmakers are promising a novel and groundbreaking approach to the horror-thriller genre, with aspirations to elevate Indian horror cinema on the world stage. Principal photography concluded on April 29, 2025, and the film is now in its post-production phase.

Pranav’s thrilling return

Pranav Mohanlal, riding high on the success of Varshangalukku Shesham—a film that struck a chord with family audiences—is teaming up with director Rahul Sadasivan for the highly anticipated horror thriller Dies Irae.

Adding to the buzz around Pranav, his portrayal of a younger Stephen in a flashback sequence in the box office hit 'L2 Empuraan' has generated significant excitement. While initially some thought it was AI de-aging of Mohanlal, director Prithviraj Sukumaran clarified that it was indeed Pranav, and his performance has only increased anticipation for his expected significant role in the final installment of the trilogy.

'L2 Empuraan' expands on the political landscape introduced in 'Lucifer' while offering a deeper exploration of Stephen's character arc, with its conclusion hinting at even more profound revelations about his transformation into Khureshi Ab’raam in the trilogy's grand finale, a saga marked by intense action and compelling drama.

New technical team

Cinematographer Shehnad Jalal and editor Shafique Mohamed Ali return from Bramayugam. The technical crew also features art director Jothish Shankar (Ponman), stunt coordinator Kalai Kingson (Marco), sound designer Jayadevan Chakkadath, sound mixer Rajakrishnan MR, makeup artist Ronex Xavier, and costume designer Melvy J.

Visually distinct

Dies Irae builds on the unique black-and-white aesthetic and storytelling style of Bramayugam while carving its own distinct identity in the genre. The film promises an emotionally layered and visually compelling cinematic experience.

Fans excited for Halloween release

The unveiling of 'Dies Irae' has sent waves of excitement across the internet, with the film's dark and gothic poster design drawing considerable praise. Fans are also eagerly anticipating the pairing of Pranav Mohanlal and director Rahul Sadasivan, and the Halloween release date is adding to the film's already eerie and thrilling allure.

With inputs from Agencies