Joju George Reveals He Was Not Paid for His Role in Lijo Jose Pellissery’s ‘Churuli’

Malayalam actor Joju George has stirred controversy by revealing that he was not paid for his role in the film Churuli and was unaware that the explicit version of the film would be released in theatres.

Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, Churuli has been at the centre of multiple controversies since its release, and Joju’s recent statements have reignited debate around the film.

Actor Shocked Over Release of Abusive Version

In a recent interview with The New Indian Express, Joju George, who played the role of a police officer named Anthony in Churuli, shared his disappointment with the filmmakers.

He revealed that he had been assured only a cleaner version of the movie would be released for public viewing, while the version containing abusive language was meant solely for award screenings.

“I was told the version containing expletives would be sent only for awards. But they went ahead and released that version. I’m still carrying the burden of the decision. They should have contacted me and informed me of the matter as an act of courtesy before the OTT release. I didn’t receive a single rupee for acting. Truly, I have expressed this issue directly to them,” Joju said.

Legal Case Filed Against the Actor

Joju also shared that the release of the explicit version of Churuli led to legal trouble for him. He revealed that a case was filed against him due to the abusive language used in the film.

“I had to weather it alone. I conveyed my concerns to the producers of the film, but no one called to check on me after the film was released in theatres,” the actor stated.

Churuli Faces Legal Scrutiny for Language

Churuli has already faced legal challenges over its language. The Kerala High Court recently examined specific scenes from the movie and criticised the makers for violating public decency standards.

Justice N. Nagaresh observed that the language used in the film was inappropriate and in conflict with acceptable norms.

About the Film Churuli

Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, Churuli tells the story of two undercover police officers who enter the mysterious village of Churuli while searching for a criminal on the run.

The film was praised for its experimental narrative and dark, atmospheric storytelling. However, its intense use of profanities sparked significant controversy.

Churuli was released in February 2021 and quickly became a talking point in Malayalam cinema circles due to its unique style and bold content.

While many appreciated its experimental approach, the explicit language used in the film became a subject of debate.

Joju George’s Rising Popularity

Joju George, known for his versatile performances in Malayalam cinema, played a key role in Churuli.

The actor, who has consistently impressed audiences with his powerful performances, was recently seen in the Tamil film Thug Life alongside Kamal Haasan.

His recent revelation regarding Churuli has left fans and industry insiders surprised.

Joju expressed his disappointment over not being informed about the final version of the film that was released to the public, as well as the lack of communication from the filmmakers after the controversy erupted.

Ongoing Controversy

The controversy surrounding Churuli is far from over. With legal scrutiny already underway and Joju George’s recent statements adding fuel to the fire, the film continues to face backlash.

The questions over the filmmakers’ decisions and their communication with the actors involved have sparked a broader discussion in the industry.

Meanwhile, the legal proceedings initiated in connection with the film’s language are expected to continue in the Kerala High Court.

The incident has also reignited conversations around the responsibilities of filmmakers and the importance of transparency with actors regarding content and distribution decisions.