Mammootty will be playing the lead role in Shamdat’s film and interestingly, it will mark the ace cinematographer’s directorial debut. Having worked with the likes of Mammootty and Kamal Haasan as DOP, Shamdat is wielding the megaphone for the first time.

Sources say that Mammootty plays a police officer in the movie, which is touted to be an intense thriller. The veteran star has donned the khaki in a couple of films earlier, including Nithin Renji Panicker’s Kasaba. Having worked with Mammootty in Pramani and Venicile Vyapari, Shamdat is known for his stunning visuals. Apparently, Mammootty has allotted a 20-day call sheet for Shamdat’s film during which the director will be canning the portions requiring the star.

Mammootty currently has two films – the Ranjith directorial Puthan Panam and Haneef Adeni’s The Great Father in his kitty. Sources say that Shamdat’s film will go on to the floors this year and the groundwork is on. Mammootty has completed shooting for his portions in Puthan Panam and is concentrating on The Great Father, say sources.

Details regarding the producer, and the rest of the cast and crew of Shamdat – Mammootty’s film is expected to be out when finalised.