''Challenging'' was the term, ace actor Mohanlal used to describe his role in the new film, ‘Aakashagopuram' (The Castle in the Air) - a take on Ibsen's classic ‘‘master builder''.

The actor was seen visibly emotional after the premier of the movie at Kochi, which was attended by all the eminent personalities of the industry.

Mohanlal recalled the praises that was showered on him by the late 'Bharat' Gopi, after watching ‘Aakashagopuram’ on screen for the first time. “After watching the whole movie, sitting next to me, he touched my hands and told that he didn't saw me but playwright Ibsen in the entire movie."

Mohanlal plays Albert Samson, a middle-aged architect who shoot over to prominence while the late Gopi plays Abraham, Samson's former employer and mentor, who is presently at decrepitude.

Lal also describes the movie by K P Kumaran as a daring attempt. Shot entirely in London, ‘Aakashagopuram’ is also a dream come true for the director.

Working on the project for the past twenty years, Mr. Kumaran said that he was attracted to it due to the psychological insights into human nature that the story provides and as he could attempt a story which says something ''universal''. The movie also showcases some breath taking visuals by Santhosh Thundiyil, for which he is sure earn a lot of accolades.

‘Aakashagopuram’, the first truly international project of Mollywood, will reach the theatres on Friday.