After the stupendous success of "Bharathchandran IPS", the comeback vehicle of superstar Suresh Gopi, he is all set to don the grease paint for yet another thriller, "The Tiger".

"Suresh Gopi as Tiger is certainly going to be one of the biggest hits in Malayalam films. It is one that would keep the audience on the edge of their seats because it is an explosive investigative murder mystery and one never seen before in our industry," director Shaji Kailas told IANS.

Kailas is known for several blockbusters in the Malayalam film industry and has always been credited with the mega success of another superstar, Mohanlal.

Shooting for the film begins Monday.

Gopi, whose "Bharathchandran IPS" has been a smash hit and is running at all release centres, has certainly revived the fortunes of the angry young man of the Malayalam film industry. He returned to films after a three-year gap.

And in the new film too, Gopi is to play the role of a police character though this time he will not wear the uniform.

"He is a crime branch superintendent of police inquiring into the disappearance of a woman journalist. The journalist is being played by leading lady Gopika and (the role) is inspired by two women journalists currently working in a leading Malayalam TV channel," said Kailas.

The film has several political and social events that the state has witnessed in the past 24 months as its ingredients.

"This is a serious, fast-paced film, and because of that there is no scope for songs, dances or comedy. We expect to finish it within the budgeted Rs.15 million and it will hit the theatres during Christmas this year," said Kailas.

Another unique feature of the film is the film debut of Congress veteran Raj Mohan Unnithan who played a role in the exit of the K. Karunakaran family from the party.

Among others in the film are National Award winning actor Murali, Janaradhan and ace villain Sai Kumar.