:Kannur Squad

2015: ASI George Martin and his team of CPO officers: Jose, Jayan and Shafi, known as the Kannur Squad, head out to search for a political goon, who is in a hideout in the Kannur-Virajpet forest area. They catch him, but coincidentally find the hanged body of a stranger in the forest. With the case proving to be ruled out as a suicide, George believes that the stranger was murdered and sets out to find the real perpetrator. The squad identifies the suicider as Murugan, a lorry driver, and the investigation moves to Coimbatore, where the culprit is revealed to be Murugan's wife Vanaja and her nephew Rakesh, who was actually cheated by Murugan. Shortly after this incident, Jayan is found to have taken a bribe from the sand mafia and the group gets disbanded.

2017: A rich NRI businessman Abdul Wahab was dacoited and murdered in Kasaragod. Unable to find any leads, SP Manu Needhi Cholan assigns the Kannur Squad to investigate the case even though there is the shadow of the bribery scandal and there is a lot of resistance to have the group investigate this crime. The squad begins their investigation, where they capture the suspect Riyas, as he bought two SIM cards and his urine sample(the culprit was affected by kidney stone) was found at the crime scene, and interrogates him. Riyas reveals that he used to work at a hotel in Qatar and had met the hotel owner's sons Ameer Shah and Zulfiqar Ali, who wanted money for their new business.

Riyas reveals that he found that Wahab had bundles of money, while he was working on house maintenance work and had informed Ameer and Zulfiqar, who along with the other two men Hathooda and Bambiha, barged into Wahab's house at night. They find there is no money and brutally kill Wahab, injure his son Ramzan and leave his daughter Farha assaulted by Ameer. The squad later sets out to track down the culprits, where they reach Mumbai for the investigation and learn that Ameer had made a call to Shiju Velayudhan. They track down Shiju's address and capture him. Shiju tells that Ameer and Zulfiqar had left for Bhubaneswar.

However, the squad learns that Ameer and Zulfiqar lied to Shiju about their location and they are presently in Faizabad. The squad reaches Faizabad and is assisted by constable Yogesh Yadav of the UP Police, where they learn that a person named Pawan picked up Ameer and Zulfiqar from the railway station. The squad arrives at Pawan's village in Tikri and learns that Ameer and Zulfiqar are at Hathooda's house, where they arrest Pawan after an intense battle with the villagers. The next morning, Pawan reveals that Ameer, Zulfiqar, Hathoda and Bambiha started committing robberies in order to start an ivory export trade and had set up markets in foreign countries and extended their trading to Kerala, Karnataka and other parts of India. Pawan tells that they are currently at a railway station in Payagpur.

The squad manages to capture Hathoda and Bambiha on the train leaving Payagpur. George directs Jose and Shafi to board the train, fearing that Ameer and Zulfiqar could be on the same train. Later, George and Jayakumar find out that Ameer and Zulfiqar have left from Payagpur to Babaganj and are heading to Nepal, with a possible chance of them being untraced. The squad soon finds Ameer and Zulfiqar's hideout in a forest near the India-Nepal border and an intense fight ensues, where the squad manages to arrest them with the help of Sashastra Seema Bal and bring them back to Kerala thereby completing their mission successfully and also thank Yogesh Yadav for his help and cooperation and bid farewell to him.

{{Cast listing|

• Mammootty as ASI George Martin
• Azees Nedumangad as CPO Jose Skaria
• Rony David Raj as CPO Jayakumar P. Vasu a.k.a. Jayan
• Shabareesh Varma as CPO Muhammed Shafi T. A.
• Ankith Madhav as Constable Yogesh Yadav, UP Police
• Kishore as SP Manu Needhi Cholan IPS, District Police Chief, Kasargod
• Vijayaraghavan as SP Krishnalal T. K. IPS, District Police Chief, Kannur
• Arjun Radhakrishnan as Ameer Shah
• Dhruvan as Zulfiqar Ali, Ameer's elder brother
• Deepak Parambol as Riyas
• Sunny Wayne as Reghu, a photo journalist (cameo appearance)
• Sarath Sabha as Vinod Kollaattu
• Afsana Lakshmi as Farha, Wahab's daughter
• Manoj K. U. as Abdul Wahab
• Resh Lamba as Hathoda
• Nalneesh Neel as Bambiha
• Shine Tom Chacko as CPO Subhash, Malappuram Special Branch (cameo appearance)
• Sivadas Kannur as Premachandran
• Mullai Arasi as Vanaja
• Sajin Cherukayil as Sreekumar
• Shebin Benson as Ramzan Wahab
• S. P. Sreekumar as Shiju Velayudhan
• Manohar Pandey as Pawan
• Susmita Sur as Veerangana, Pawan's wife
• Saraswat Pandey as Guddu
• Gibin Gopinath as Motor Vehicle Inspector, Thiruvananthapuram RTO
• Benzi Mathews as IGP Tony Maliyil IPS, North Zone
• Seju K. Eapan as DYSP Sajeevan
• Anoop Trivedi as PC Jhandulal, Mumbai Police
• Avinash Pandey as SI Laxman Trivedi, Ayodhya Police
• Catherine Maria as a girl at Tikri, Uttar Pradesh

}}

Kannur Squad marks the fourth production of Mammootty Kampany, following Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam (2022), Rorschach (2022) and Kaathal – The Core (2023).{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/ct-rajan-and-family-presents-mammoottys-kannur-squad-rony-david-raj-recounts-the-tale-of-a-familial-triumph-89776-8977637/|title=After losing everything with Mahayanam, CT Rajan and family present Mammootty's Kannur Squad: Rony David Raj recounts the tale of a familial triumph|date=17 November 2023|publisher=New Indian Express|access-date=17 November 2023|archive-date=17 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231117161832/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/ct-rajan-and-family-presents-mammoottys-kannur-squad-rony-david-raj-recounts-the-tale-of-a-familial-triumph-89776-8977637/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |date=7 September 2023 |title=Kannur Squad trailer: Mammootty chases dreaded criminals in intriguing thriller |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/kannur-squad-trailer-mammootty-chases-dreaded-criminals-in-intriguing-thriller-8929253/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907162919/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/kannur-squad-trailer-mammootty-chases-dreaded-criminals-in-intriguing-thriller-8929253/ |archive-date=7 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} It was the directorial debut of cinematographer Roby Varghese Raj, who has previously worked in Puthiya Niyamam (2016) and The Great Father (2017).{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=8 September 2023 |title='Kannur Squad' trailer: Mammootty and team go on a nationwide manhunt in this investigative thriller |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kannur-squad-trailer-mammootty-and-team-go-on-a-nationwide-manhunt-in-this-investigative-thriller/article67284384.ece |url-status=live |access-date=8 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908083626/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kannur-squad-trailer-mammootty-and-team-go-on-a-nationwide-manhunt-in-this-investigative-thriller/article67284384.ece |archive-date=8 September 2023 |issn=0971-751X}} The film was officially announced in January 2023 under the tentative title Megastar 421, and the title of the film was announced by Mammootty on 11 February 2023 as Kannur Squad.{{Cite web |date=26 January 2023 |title=Kannur Squad: Mammootty Reveals the title of Megastar 421; Drops an exciting update |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/kannur-squad-mammootty-reveals-the-title-of-megastar-421-drops-an-exciting-update-1207273 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908080305/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/kannur-squad-mammootty-reveals-the-title-of-megastar-421-drops-an-exciting-update-1207273 |archive-date=8 September 2023 |access-date=8 September 2023 |website=Pinkvilla |language=en}}

Rony David Raj and Roby Varghese Raj's father, C. T. Rajan, had earlier produced Mammootty starrer Mahayanam (1988).{{Cite web |date=2023-09-30 |title=Here's The Connection Between Mammootty's Kannur Squad and Mahayanam |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/heres-the-connection-between-mammoottys-kannur-squad-and-mahayanam-8598735.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003181550/https://www.news18.com/movies/heres-the-connection-between-mammoottys-kannur-squad-and-mahayanam-8598735.html |archive-date=3 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-03 |website=News18 |language=en}} Rony David Raj and Muhammed Shafi began writing the story on policemen during the COVID-19 lockdown, and the initial draft resembled a documentary. They decided to make it look cinematic and focus on four characters, thereby incorporating different issues related to the police system.{{Cite web |title='Kannur squad': Men on a mission |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/sep/20/kannur-squad-men-on-a-mission-2616342.html |access-date=2023-10-31 |website=The New Indian Express |date=20 September 2023 |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031195202/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/sep/20/kannur-squad-men-on-a-mission-2616342.html |url-status=live }} They went through several changes by refining the script while preserving its core elements having done over 15 drafts over the course of two years. They approached Mammootty, who was impressed by the script and agreed to produce the film. The film required shooting in various locations across India and required extensive travel and other logistical aspects.{{Cite web |title='Kannur Squad' story: Rejection, 15 rewrites, Mammootty and now a hit! |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/sep/30/kannur-squad-story-rejection-15-rewrites-mammootty-now-a-hit-2619414.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002064041/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/sep/30/kannur-squad-story-rejection-15-rewrites-mammootty-now-a-hit-2619414.html |archive-date=2 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=The New Indian Express|date=30 September 2023 }} Mammootty revealed in an interview that he plays an ASI in the film, which will be the first time this decade that he plays a cop below SI rank. His other police roles were in Christopher (2023) as an ADGP, Puzhu (2022) as an IPS officer and Unda (2019) as an SI respectively.{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad: Here's how Mammootty's police role in Roby Varghese Raj's thriller is different from his recent films |url=https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squad-heres-how-mammoottys-police-role-in-roby-varghese-rajs-thriller-is-different-from-his-recent-films/6a8fa7035d850 |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=www.ottplay.com |archive-date=18 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018094737/https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squad-heres-how-mammoottys-police-role-in-roby-varghese-rajs-thriller-is-different-from-his-recent-films/6a8fa7035d850 |url-status=live }} The action choreography was created by Supreme Sundar, Rajashekhar, Kanal Kannan, Jolly Bastian, Run Ravi, PC Stunts and Roby Varghese Raj.{{Cite news |title=Kannur Squad: Five compelling reasons why you must watch THIS Mammootty starrer in the cinemas |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kannur-squad-five-compelling-reasons-why-you-must-watch-this-mammootty-starrer-in-the-cinemas/photostory/104023536.cms |url-status=live |access-date=2023-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001233924/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kannur-squad-five-compelling-reasons-why-you-must-watch-this-mammootty-starrer-in-the-cinemas/photostory/104023536.cms |archive-date=1 October 2023 |issn=0971-8257}}

Paragg Mehta was appointed as the casting director which marks his first South Indian film. Lukman Avaran and Arjun Ashokan were initially considered for the role of police officers but both of them had to back out due to conflicting schedules. Prakash Raj and Sathyaraj were approached to play certain characters in the film. Shabeer Kallarakkal was considered for a negative role in the film, but it didn't end up happening as he was busy shooting for King of Kotha (2023).{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad's Rony David Raj: Arjun Ashokan and Lukman Avaran were among the initial casting choices |url=https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squads-rony-david-raj-arjun-ashokan-and-lukman-avaran-were-among-the-initial-casting-choices/4aa57f8813308 |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=www.ottplay.com |archive-date=18 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018094740/https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squads-rony-david-raj-arjun-ashokan-and-lukman-avaran-were-among-the-initial-casting-choices/4aa57f8813308 |url-status=live }} Azeez Nedumangad initially got a call from Mammootty's associate George about playing the police officer in the film. His past collaborations with Mammootty were in Parole (2018), One (2021) and CBI 5: The Brain (2022). Following the narration, he immediately accepted the role as he believed it was a shift from what he had done earlier.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-10 |title=EXCLUSIVE - 'Kannur Squad' actor Azees Nedumangad: Mammootty took care of us as if we were his squad! |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/exclusive-kannur-squad-actor-azees-nedumangad-mammootty-took-care-of-us-as-if-we-were-his-squad/articleshow/104283852.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-11-03 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103212917/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/exclusive-kannur-squad-actor-azees-nedumangad-mammootty-took-care-of-us-as-if-we-were-his-squad/articleshow/104283852.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}

Arjun Radhakrishnan was cast to play the antagonist who has earlier played roles in Jhund (2022) and the webseries Rocket Boys. Roby Varghese cast him in this role after seeing him in the films Pada (2022) and Dear Friend (2022).{{Cite web |title=Up, close & personal with Arjun Radhakrishnan |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/oct/11/up-close--personal-with-arjun-radhakrishnan-2623033.html |access-date=2023-10-12 |website=The New Indian Express |date=12 October 2023 |archive-date=12 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012194342/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/oct/11/up-close--personal-with-arjun-radhakrishnan-2623033.html |url-status=live }} Manohar Pandey, who has appeared in Adipurush (2023) and Gangubhai Kathiawadi (2022) was cast to play a role.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-05 |title=Mammootty sir displayed unparalleled ease and a remarkable instinct: 'Kannur Squad' actor Manohar Pandey – Exclusive |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-sir-displayed-unparalleled-ease-and-a-remarkable-instinct-kannur-squad-actor-manohar-pandey-exclusive/articleshow/104188813.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-10-05 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=6 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231006162009/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-sir-displayed-unparalleled-ease-and-a-remarkable-instinct-kannur-squad-actor-manohar-pandey-exclusive/articleshow/104188813.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }} Ankit Madhav who originally hails from Pattambi was cast to play a Uttar Pradesh Police constable.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-09 |title=അങ്ങോട്ടൊരു സല്യൂട്ട്, ഇങ്ങോട്ടൊരു കെട്ടിപ്പിടിത്തം; സെറ്റ് മൊത്തം ഞെട്ടി- കണ്ണൂർ സ്ക്വാഡിലെ യോ ഗേഷ് |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/interview/kannur-squad-actor-ankith-madhav-interview-kannur-squad-response-kannur-squad-review-1.8963464 |access-date=2023-10-09 |website=Mathrubhumi |language=en |archive-date=9 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009195136/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/interview/kannur-squad-actor-ankith-madhav-interview-kannur-squad-response-kannur-squad-review-1.8963464 |url-status=live }} For preparing the character, he had conferred with a diction coach and had seen shows that had north Indian policemen. His previous appearances were in several Hindi ads and Hindi shows that made him comfortable speaking the language.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-25 |title=Dr Rony David: For Kannur Squad, we created a new story the audience was invested in |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/dr-rony-david-for-kannur-squad-we-created-a-new-story-the-audience-was-invested-in/articleshow/104703011.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-10-31 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031122952/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/dr-rony-david-for-kannur-squad-we-created-a-new-story-the-audience-was-invested-in/articleshow/104703011.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }} Deepak Parambol, who was simultaneously shooting for Chaver (2023) and Kasargold (2023), joined the cast later.{{Cite web |title='Acknowledged efforts keep one going', says Actor Deepak Parambol |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/oct/26/acknowledged-efforts-keep-one-going-saysactor-deepakparambol-2626954.html |access-date=2023-10-26 |website=The New Indian Express |date=26 October 2023 |archive-date=26 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026182408/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2023/oct/26/acknowledged-efforts-keep-one-going-saysactor-deepakparambol-2626954.html |url-status=live }}

The principal photography of the film began on {{Date|Dec 27, 2022}} in Pala.{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad: Mammootty reveals the title of his next investigative thriller helmed by Roby Varghese Raj |url=https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squad-mammootty-reveals-the-title-of-his-next-investigative-thriller-helmed-by-roby-varghese-raj/24ce8187b0856 |access-date=2023-11-25 |website=www.ottplay.com |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125051832/https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squad-mammootty-reveals-the-title-of-his-next-investigative-thriller-helmed-by-roby-varghese-raj/24ce8187b0856 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |date=7 April 2023 |title=It's a wrap for Mammootty starrer 'Kannur Squad' |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/its-a-wrap-for-mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad/articleshow/99316840.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |access-date=7 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907163548/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/its-a-wrap-for-mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad/articleshow/99316840.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=7 September 2023 |issn=0971-8257}} Mammootty joined the film set on {{Date|Jan 1, 2023}}.{{Cite news |date=3 January 2023 |title=Mammootty joins the sets of his next helmed by Roby Varghese Raj |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-joins-the-sets-of-his-next-helmed-by-roby-varghese-raj/articleshow/96705123.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |access-date=7 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907191143/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-joins-the-sets-of-his-next-helmed-by-roby-varghese-raj/articleshow/96705123.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=7 September 2023 |issn=0971-8257}} The Pune schedule began on {{Date|Feb 14, 2023}}.{{Cite web |date=13 February 2023 |title=Mammootty drives to Pune to join the sets of his next movie, see photo |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/mammootty-drives-to-pune-to-join-the-sets-of-his-next-movie-see-photo/5f8de8934e643 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907191141/https://www.ottplay.com/news/mammootty-drives-to-pune-to-join-the-sets-of-his-next-movie-see-photo/5f8de8934e643 |archive-date=7 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}} Prior to Pune, filming took place at Wai. The team had a five-day schedule in Pune, filming in the old city areas, Katraj Tunnel and Pune Camp.{{Cite news |date=2023-03-04 |title=Mammootty shoots for a thriller in Pune |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/mammootty-shoots-for-a-thriller-in-pune/articleshow/98395069.cms |access-date=2023-11-25 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125053809/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/mammootty-shoots-for-a-thriller-in-pune/articleshow/98395069.cms |url-status=live }} The Mumbai schedule was completed in the first week of March 2023.{{Cite news |date=8 March 2023 |title=Mammootty's 'Kannur Squad' Mumbai shooting schedule wraps up; see pic |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammoottys-kannur-squad-mumbai-shooting-schedule-wraps-up-see-pic/articleshow/98493732.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |access-date=7 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907165110/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammoottys-kannur-squad-mumbai-shooting-schedule-wraps-up-see-pic/articleshow/98493732.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=7 September 2023 |issn=0971-8257}} It was followed by a 10-day schedule in Wayanad.{{Cite web |last=Madhu |first=Vignesh |date=9 March 2023 |title=Kannur Squad team to head next to Wayanad |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/mar/09/kannur-squad-team-to-head-next-to-wayanad-40840.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907165111/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/mar/09/kannur-squad-team-to-head-next-to-wayanad-40840.html |archive-date=7 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}} After the completion of the Wayanad schedule the team relocated to Kochi for its last schedule shoot at Willingdon Island, Kochi.{{Cite web |date=22 March 2023 |title=Mammootty's Kannur Squad nears completion |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/mar/22/mammoottys-kannur-squad-nears-completion-41401.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907165112/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/mar/22/mammoottys-kannur-squad-nears-completion-41401.html |archive-date=7 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}} Some portions of the shooting took place at Maharaja's College, Ernakulam.{{Cite web |title=Mammootty's Kannur Squad will release earlier than expected; all details here |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/mammoottys-kannur-squad-will-release-earlier-than-expected-all-details-here/c7a5c8f268401 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005121938/https://www.ottplay.com/news/mammoottys-kannur-squad-will-release-earlier-than-expected-all-details-here/c7a5c8f268401 |archive-date=5 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}} The entire filming wrapped on {{Date|Apr 6, 2023}} in Wayanad after 91 days of shooting.{{Cite web |title=It's a wrap for Mammootty's Kannur Squad |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/apr/07/its-a-wrap-for-mammoottys-kannur-squad-42039.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907191140/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/apr/07/its-a-wrap-for-mammoottys-kannur-squad-42039.html |archive-date=7 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=Cinema Express|date=7 April 2023 }} The entire filming took place in Kannur, Kasaragod, Wayanad, Ernakulam, Athirappilly, Thiruvananthapuram, Pala, Wai, Pune, Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Belgaum, Mangalore and Coimbatore.{{Cite web |last=Madhu |first=Vignesh |date=7 April 2023 |title=It's a wrap for Mammootty's Kannur Squad |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/apr/07/its-a-wrap-for-mammoottys-kannur-squad-42039.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907191140/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/apr/07/its-a-wrap-for-mammoottys-kannur-squad-42039.html |archive-date=7 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad: Mammootty thanks the audience for their love towards the film |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/kannur-squad-mammootty-thanks-the-audience-for-their-love-towards-the-film/246733b2e3908 |access-date=2023-11-15 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=15 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115204311/https://www.ottplay.com/news/kannur-squad-mammootty-thanks-the-audience-for-their-love-towards-the-film/246733b2e3908 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title='കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ്' വെല്ലിങ്‍ടണ്‍ ഐലന്‍ഡില്‍; ചിത്രീകരണം അവസാന ഘട്ടത്തില്‍ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment-news/kannur-squad-shooting-in-wellington-island-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-nsn-rrx4pe |access-date=2023-11-25 |website=www.asianetnews.com |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125051832/https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment-news/kannur-squad-shooting-in-wellington-island-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-nsn-rrx4pe |url-status=live }} The post-production began on 16 April 2023 and lasted for 5–6 months.{{Cite news |date=2023-04-16 |title=Second look poster of Mammootty's 'Kannur Squad' out! |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/second-look-poster-of-mammoottys-kannur-squad-out/articleshow/99523100.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-10-21 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=6 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230506190945/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/second-look-poster-of-mammoottys-kannur-squad-out/articleshow/99523100.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title='Kannur Squad' is the result of four years of my hardwork: Rony David |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2023/09/30/kannur-squad-malayalam-movie-rony-david-mammootty.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003181609/https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2023/09/30/kannur-squad-malayalam-movie-rony-david-mammootty.html |archive-date=3 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-03 |website=OnManorama}} According to Rony David Raj, the film was made at a cost of {{INR}}30–32 crore.

Kannur Squad is influenced by the police squad that originated in Kannur and came to be known as the Kannur Squad formed by the Kerala Transport Commissioner, ADGP S. Sreejith, who handpicked and groomed the officers while he was SP in the district and was created as an investigation unit. The squad is still operational and has a total of nine members, consisting of Additional SI Mathew Jose, and senior CPOs Raphy Ahmed M A, Vinodkumar P, Manojkumar K, Sunilkumar C, Jayarajan K, Reji Skaria, Rajasekar C K, and led by ASI Baby George.{{Cite web |title=The 'hit' squad |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2023/oct/18/the-hit-squad-2624817.html |access-date=2023-10-18 |website=The New Indian Express |date=18 October 2023 |archive-date=19 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231019093602/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/2023/oct/18/the-hit-squad-2624817.html |url-status=live }}

The film focuses on four police officers, played by Mammootty, Rony David Raj, Shabaresh Varma, and Azeez Nedumangad. Mammooty plays George Martin, who is an ASI, and Rony David Raj, Shabaresh Varma, and Azeez Nedumangad play the driver and the two CPOs.{{Cite web |date=2023-09-28 |title=Is Mammootty-starrer Kannur Squad Based On Real Story? What We Know |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/is-mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-based-on-real-story-what-we-know-8595779.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002064041/https://www.news18.com/movies/is-mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-based-on-real-story-what-we-know-8595779.html |archive-date=2 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=News18 |language=en}} Rony David Raj and Muhammed Shafi (who wrote the story and screenplay of the film) contacted the officers of the Kannur Squad. During their conversations, the officers shared details on different cases they had looked into and investigated. Rony David and Shafi were particularly interested in one case that caught their attention.{{Cite web |title=When the real 'Kannur Squad' turned up to watch the Mammootty-starrer |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/when-the-real-kannur-squad-turned-up-to-watch-the-mammootty-starrer/c4af6f7693745 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002064042/https://www.ottplay.com/news/when-the-real-kannur-squad-turned-up-to-watch-the-mammootty-starrer/c4af6f7693745 |archive-date=2 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-01 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}} S. Sreejith later met with Roby Varghese, Rony David and Shafi during the post-production phase.{{Cite web |title=Real squad leader S Sreejith on Kannur Squad: 'The film is a tribute to Kerala police' |url=https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/real-squad-leader-s-sreejith-on-kannur-squad-the-film-is-a-tribute-to-kerala-police/491a11bf3b866 |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=www.ottplay.com |archive-date=18 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231018094738/https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/real-squad-leader-s-sreejith-on-kannur-squad-the-film-is-a-tribute-to-kerala-police/491a11bf3b866 |url-status=live }}

{{Infobox album

| name = Kannur Squad

| type = soundtrack

| artist = Sushin Shyam

| cover =

| alt =

| caption =

| released = 2023

| recorded =

| venue =

| studio =

| genre = Feature film soundtrack

| length = 10:03

| language = Malayalam

| label =

| producer = Sushin Shyam

| prev_title = Romancham

| prev_year = 2023

| next_title = Manjummel Boys

| next_year = 2024

}}

The songs and background score are composed by Sushin Shyam, while the lyrics are written by Vinayak Sasikumar.{{Cite web |last=Features |first=CE |date=6 September 2023 |title=Mammootty's Kannur Squad trailer release date out |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/sep/06/mammottys-kannur-squad-trailer-release-date-out-47370.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906110845/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/sep/06/mammottys-kannur-squad-trailer-release-date-out-47370.html |archive-date=6 September 2023 |access-date=7 September 2023 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Daily |first=Keralakaumudi |date=21 September 2023 |title=Mammootty announces 'Kannur Squad' worldwide release date |url=https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=1153689 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928080504/https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=1153689 |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=Keralakaumudi Daily |language=en}} This is Sushin's third collaboration with Mammootty. The first song titled "Mrudhu Bhaave Dhruda Kruthye" was released on {{Date|Sep 27, 2023}}.{{Cite web |last=Features |first=CE |date=27 September 2023 |title=Mrudhu Bhaave Dhruda Kruthye song from Kannur Squad is out |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/sep/27/mrudhu-bhaave-dhruda-kruthye-song-from-kannur-squad-is-out-48082.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928080504/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/sep/27/mrudhu-bhaave-dhruda-kruthye-song-from-kannur-squad-is-out-48082.html |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=2023-09-28 |title=Watch: 'Mrudhu Bhaave Dhruda Kruthye' song from 'Kannur Squad' showcases Sushin Shyam's musical brilliance |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/watch-mrudhu-bhaave-dhruda-kruthye-song-from-kannur-squad-showcases-sushin-shyams-musical-brilliance/articleshow/104011317.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-10-26 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027204422/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/watch-mrudhu-bhaave-dhruda-kruthye-song-from-kannur-squad-showcases-sushin-shyams-musical-brilliance/articleshow/104011317.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }} The motto of the Kerala Police 'Mrudhu Bhaave Dhruda Kruthye' serves as the inspiration for the songs' lyrics.{{Cite web |title=Mammootty-starrer Kannur Squad's new track is inspired by Kerala Police motto |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squads-new-track-is-inspired-by-kerala-police-motto/2bccfd97f1687 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004190258/https://www.ottplay.com/news/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squads-new-track-is-inspired-by-kerala-police-motto/2bccfd97f1687 |archive-date=4 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-04 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}} The second song titled "Kalan Puli" was released on 6 October 2023.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-07 |title='Kannur Squad' makers unveil enthralling song 'Kaalan Puli' |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kannur-squad-makers-unveil-enthralling-song-kaalan-puli/articleshow/104241012.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-10-07 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=9 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009063024/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kannur-squad-makers-unveil-enthralling-song-kaalan-puli/articleshow/104241012.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}{{Citation |title=Kannur Squad (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) - Single by Sushin Shyam & Vinayak Sasikumar |date=2023-10-07 |url=https://music.apple.com/in/album/kannur-squad-original-motion-picture-soundtrack-single/1711733965 |access-date=2023-10-31 |language=en-GB |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031200213/https://music.apple.com/in/album/kannur-squad-original-motion-picture-soundtrack-single/1711733965 |url-status=live }}

{{Track listing

| headline = Track listing

| extra_column = Singer(s)

| title1 = Mrudhu Bhaave Dhruda Kruthye

| length1 = 5:32

| lyrics1 = Vinayak Sasikumar

| extra1 = Sushin Shyam, Sreya Rupesh, Gowri S, Prijith, Aditya Ajay, Chinmayi Kiranbal

| title2 = Kalan Puli

| length2 = 3:17

| lyrics2 = Vinayak Sasikumar

| extra2 = Amal Jose, Sushin Shyam

| title3 = Kannur Squad Theme

| length3 = 1:54

| extra3 = Sushin Shyam

| total_length = 10:03

}}

Kannur Squad was censored with a U/A certificate by the Censor Board prior to its release.{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=21 September 2023 |title=Mammootty's 'Kannur Squad' gets a release date |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/mammoottys-kannur-squad-gets-a-release-date/article67330028.ece |url-status=live |access-date=21 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922145454/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/mammoottys-kannur-squad-gets-a-release-date/article67330028.ece |archive-date=22 September 2023 |issn=0971-751X}} The film was released in theatres on {{Date|Sep 28, 2023}}.{{Cite news |date=21 September 2023 |title=Mammootty's 'Kannur Squad' censored with a U/A; the film to release on September 28 |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammoottys-kannur-squad-censored-with-u/a-the-film-to-release-on-september-28/articleshow/103828712.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |access-date=21 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929044700/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammoottys-kannur-squad-censored-with-u/a-the-film-to-release-on-september-28/articleshow/103828712.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=29 September 2023 |issn=0971-8257}} It was distributed in Kerala by Wayfarer Films and the overseas distribution was done by Truth Global Films.{{Cite news |last=Bureau |first=The Hindu |date=27 September 2023 |title=Mammootty-Roby Varghese Raj's film titled 'Kannur Squad' |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/mammootty-roby-varghese-rajs-film-titled-kannur-squad/article66559280.ece |url-status=live |access-date=29 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928121249/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/mammootty-roby-varghese-rajs-film-titled-kannur-squad/article66559280.ece |archive-date=28 September 2023 |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad {{!}} കണ്ണൂർ സ്ക്വാഡ് - Mallu Release {{!}} Watch Malayalam Full Movies |url=https://www.mallurelease.com/2023/02/kannur-squad.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908081331/https://www.mallurelease.com/2023/02/kannur-squad.html |archive-date=8 September 2023 |access-date=8 September 2023 |website=Mallu Release |language=english}} It was screened in more than 130 theatres in GCC countries.{{Cite web |last=ലേഖകൻ |first=മാധ്യമം |date=28 September 2023 |title=പ്രമോഷൻ നടത്തിയാലും നിലവാരമില്ലെങ്കിൽ സിനിമ പരാജയപ്പെടും -മമ്മൂട്ടി {{!}} Madhyamam |url=https://www.madhyamam.com/entertainment/movie-news/mammootty-kannur-squad-press-meet-at-dubai-1208307 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928073347/https://www.madhyamam.com/entertainment/movie-news/mammootty-kannur-squad-press-meet-at-dubai-1208307 |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=Madhyamam |language=ml}} The film was released in 160 theatres in Kerala on the first day and was screened in over 250 theatres on the second day.{{Cite web |date=29 September 2023 |title=എങ്ങും മികച്ച പ്രതികരണം; മമ്മൂട്ടി ചിത്രം കണ്ണൂർ സ്‌ക്വാഡ് 160-ൽ നിന്ന് 250-ൽ പരം തിയേറ്ററുകളിലേക്ക് |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/amp/movies-music/news/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-added-extra-shows-1.8945201 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929154404/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/amp/movies-music/news/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-added-extra-shows-1.8945201 |archive-date=29 September 2023 |access-date=29 September 2023 |website=Mathrubhumi}} The film was screened on over 330 screens on the third day.{{Cite web |date=2023-11-17 |title=After losing everything with Mahayanam, CT Rajan and family present Mammootty's Kannur Squad: Rony David Raj recounts the tale of a familial triumph |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/ct-rajan-and-family-presents-mammoottys-kannur-squad-rony-david-raj-recounts-the-tale-of-a-familial-triumph-89776-8977637/ |access-date=2023-12-01 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=17 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231117161832/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/ct-rajan-and-family-presents-mammoottys-kannur-squad-rony-david-raj-recounts-the-tale-of-a-familial-triumph-89776-8977637/ |url-status=live }} The film was released in New Zealand and Australia on 6 October 2023.{{Cite web |last=nithya |title=ബോക്സ് ഓഫീസ് തൂക്കിയടി; കോടികള്‍ വാരിക്കൂട്ടി കേരള 'പടത്തലവൻ', കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ് ആഗോള കളക്ഷന്‍ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-cross-32-crore-in-world-wide-box-office-nrn-s1wn1v |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003181550/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-cross-32-crore-in-world-wide-box-office-nrn-s1wn1v |archive-date=3 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml}} The film expanded its release with additional screenings in European countries including the United Kingdom and Ireland and in the United States, Canada and Singapore.{{Cite news |date=2023-10-11 |title=Kannur Squad's box office collections: Mammootty's film rakes in Rs 31.47 crore from Kerala |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kannur-squads-box-office-collections-mammoottys-film-rakes-in-rs-31-47-crore-from-kerala/articleshow/104333971.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-10-11 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=11 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011102356/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kannur-squads-box-office-collections-mammoottys-film-rakes-in-rs-31-47-crore-from-kerala/articleshow/104333971.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}

Disney+ Hotstar and Asianet had acquired the satellite and post-theatrical digital distribution rights. The film began streaming it from 17 November 2023 and will be streamed in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Kannada languages.{{Cite web |last=S. |first=Goutham |date=9 November 2023 |title=Kannur Squad OTT release: When and where to watch Mammootty's crime thriller |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/kannur-squad-ott-release-when-and-where-to-watch-mammoottys-crime-thriller-1257514 |access-date= |website=Pinkvilla |language=en |archive-date=9 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231109134810/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/kannur-squad-ott-release-when-and-where-to-watch-mammoottys-crime-thriller-1257514 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=ലേഖകൻ |first=മനോരമ |date=9 November 2023 |title=കണ്ണൂർ സ്ക്വാഡ് നവംബർ 17 മുതൽ ഹോട്ട്സ്റ്റാറിൽ |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/home.html |access-date= |website=Manorama Online |language=ml |archive-date=19 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220719122905/https://www.manoramaonline.com/home.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad Hindi OTT release: When and where to watch Mammootty's investigative thriller |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/kannur-squad-hindi-ott-release-when-and-where-to-watch-mammoottys-investigative-thriller/1aad7e67c3141 |access-date=2023-11-15 |website=OTTPlay |language=en |archive-date=15 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115205715/https://www.ottplay.com/news/kannur-squad-hindi-ott-release-when-and-where-to-watch-mammoottys-investigative-thriller/1aad7e67c3141 |url-status=live }} The film will also have a delayed OTT release post-pandemic. It was complied with the Kerala Theatre Owners Association's long standing demand for an extended cinema run.{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad on OTT: All things you need to know about Mammootty's blockbuster cop drama |url=https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squad-on-ott-all-things-you-need-to-know-about-mammoottys-blockbuster-cop-drama/21defe7429906 |access-date=2023-11-15 |website=www.ottplay.com |archive-date=15 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115205715/https://www.ottplay.com/amp/news/kannur-squad-on-ott-all-things-you-need-to-know-about-mammoottys-blockbuster-cop-drama/21defe7429906 |url-status=live }}

Kannur Squad received critical acclaim from critics.

Sanjith Sidhardhan of OTTPlay gave 4/5 stars and wrote "All departments fire in equal measure in making Mammootty's police procedural a gripping theatrical watch. Kannur Squad also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by duty-bound police officers, while keeping the audience hooked to the engaging narrative as a team of four cops chase four elusive criminals across the country."{{Cite web |last=Sidhardhan |first=Sanjith |date=28 September 2023 |title=Kannur Squad review: Mammootty stars in this taut and engaging police procedural |url=https://www.ottplay.com/review/kannur-squad-movie-review-mammoottys-police-procedural-is-an-engaging-expertly-crafted-crime-drama/18b19b7fdf981 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928121729/https://www.ottplay.com/review/kannur-squad-movie-review-mammoottys-police-procedural-is-an-engaging-expertly-crafted-crime-drama/18b19b7fdf981 |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}} Sajin Shrijith of The New Indian Express gave 3.5/5 stars and wrote "The most stimulating aspect of the script is how it explores the manner in which its characters handle strong emotions."{{Cite web |last=Shrijith |first=Sajin |date=29 September 2023 |title='Kannur Squad' movie review: Mammootty takes charge efficiently, successfully |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2023/sep/29/kannur-squad-movie-review-mammootty-takes-charge-efficiently-successfully-2619118.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002064041/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2023/sep/29/kannur-squad-movie-review-mammootty-takes-charge-efficiently-successfully-2619118.html |archive-date=2 October 2023 |access-date=29 September 2023 |website=The New Indian Express}} Sarath Ramesh Kuniyl of The Week gave 3.5/5 stars and wrote "Kannur Squad is mind-boggling. It is through such films a layman understands the struggles of the police to crack a case. Not every mission is a success, but they have to stay firm."{{Cite web |last=Ramesh Kuniyl |first=Sarath |date=28 September 2023 |title='Kannur Squad' review: This Mammootty-starrer is a blend of both worlds |url=https://www.theweek.in/review/movies/2023/09/28/kannur-squad-review-this-mammootty-starrer-is-a-blend-of-both-worlds.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928122339/https://www.theweek.in/review/movies/2023/09/28/kannur-squad-review-this-mammootty-starrer-is-a-blend-of-both-worlds.html |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=The Week |language=en}}

Anna Mathews of The Times of India gave 3/5 stars and wrote "On the downside, there are some gory moments that could have been avoided. Muhammed Rahil's cinematography is excellent; wonderfully capturing dramatic moments in small spaces and the grandeur of landscapes. For this alone, the film is worth catching in cinemas."{{Cite news |last=Mathews |first=Anna |date=28 September 2023 |title=Kannur Squad Movie Review : Mammootty's police drama gets exciting in second half |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movie-reviews/kannur-squad/movie-review/104015423.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |access-date=28 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928121728/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movie-reviews/kannur-squad/movie-review/104015423.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=28 September 2023 |issn=0971-8257}} Anandu Suresh of The Indian Express gave 3/5 stars and wrote "Roby Varghese Raj's Kannur Squad, starring Mammootty in the lead role, is undoubtedly a solid police procedural that unfolds at a measured tempo, avoiding excessive dramatisation. However, its notable resemblances to earlier films within the same genre prevent it from being truly fresh."{{Cite web |last=Suresh |first=Anandu |date=28 September 2023 |title=Kannur Squad movie review: Mammootty-starrer police procedural is solid, yet lacks freshness |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/kannur-squad-movie-review-rating-roby-varghese-raj-mammootty-police-procedural-solid-yet-lacks-freshness-8959935/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928113819/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/kannur-squad-movie-review-rating-roby-varghese-raj-mammootty-police-procedural-solid-yet-lacks-freshness-8959935/ |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} Cris of The News Minute gave 3/5 stars and wrote "Roby Varghese Raj, the director, gives a few cinematic strokes, minimal and essential to the real story of a police squad in Kerala, played by Mammootty and his team of three men."{{Cite web |last=Cris |date=28 September 2023 |title=Kannur Squad review: Mammootty's thriller treads between heroic and grounded |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kannur-squad-review-mammoottys-thriller-treads-between-heroic-and-grounded |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928145907/https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/kannur-squad-review-mammoottys-thriller-treads-between-heroic-and-grounded |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}

S. R. Praveen of The Hindu wrote "Despite letting Mammootty indulge in a bit of fan service, director Roby Varghese Raj ensures that the film sticks to the police procedural sans any glamour for the most part."{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=S. R. |date=28 September 2023 |title='Kannur Squad' movie review: Mammootty stars in an effective procedural drama, that works despite its generic elements |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kannur-squad-movie-review-mammootty-stars-in-an-effective-procedural-drama-that-works-despite-its-generic-elements/article67356784.ece |url-status=live |access-date=28 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928121728/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kannur-squad-movie-review-mammootty-stars-in-an-effective-procedural-drama-that-works-despite-its-generic-elements/article67356784.ece |archive-date=28 September 2023 |issn=0971-751X}} Princy Alexander of Onmanorama wrote "Despite no major twists, the performances of all the actors and the action-oriented sequences in the second half of the movie, make 'Kannur Squad' engaging."{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Princy |date=28 September 2023 |title=Review {{!}} Mammootty's 'Kannur Squad' doesn't vie to be experimental, but it's engaging |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/2023/09/28/mammootty-film-kannur-squad-movie-review-performances-roby-varghese.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928123112/https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/2023/09/28/mammootty-film-kannur-squad-movie-review-performances-roby-varghese.html |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=OnManorama}} Vishal Menon of Film Companion wrote "When aided by a strong support cast and one seriously menacing villain, Kannur Squad develops into a meticulously detailed procedural that is clever enough to go all guns blazing for its superstar when needed."{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Vishal |date=28 September 2023 |title=Kannur Squad Review: A Meticulous Procedural Explodes Into A Fun, Balls Out Mass Movie |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/malayalam-review/kannur-squad-review-a-meticulous-procedural-explodes-into-a-fun-balls-out-mass-movie-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-kishore |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928145906/https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/malayalam-review/kannur-squad-review-a-meticulous-procedural-explodes-into-a-fun-balls-out-mass-movie-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-kishore |archive-date=28 September 2023 |access-date=28 September 2023 |website=Film Companion |language=en}}

Kannur Squad earned {{INR|28-32 crore}} worldwide in its first four weekend.{{Cite web |title=Kannur Squad box office: Mammootty starrer earns Rs 28 crore in opening weekend worldwide |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/kannur-squad-box-office-mammootty-starrer-earns-rs-28-crore-in-opening-weekend/24b0a382a031 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003183057/https://www.ottplay.com/news/kannur-squad-box-office-mammootty-starrer-earns-rs-28-crore-in-opening-weekend/24b0a382a031 |archive-date=3 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=ബോക്സ് ഓഫീസ് തൂക്കിയടി; കോടികള്‍ വാരിക്കൂട്ടി കേരള 'പടത്തലവൻ', കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ് ആഗോള കളക്ഷന്‍ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-cross-32-crore-in-world-wide-box-office-nrn-s1wn1v |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003181550/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-cross-32-crore-in-world-wide-box-office-nrn-s1wn1v |archive-date=3 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml}} On its seventh day, the film grossed {{INR|45.4 crore}} worldwide with {{INR|21.90 crore}} from Kerala, ₹3.10 crore from Rest of India and {{INR|20.40 crore}} from overseas.{{Cite web |last=honey |title=കൊച്ചി മള്‍ട്ടിപ്ലെക്സില്‍ മാത്രം മമ്മൂട്ടിക്ക് കോടികളുടെ തിളക്കം, കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്‍ക്വാഡ് നേടിയത് |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-collection-report-out-actors-crime-thriller-earns-one-crore-in-kochi-multiplexes-hrk-s21vpc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005121939/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-collection-report-out-actors-crime-thriller-earns-one-crore-in-kochi-multiplexes-hrk-s21vpc |archive-date=5 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-05 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml}} On its ninth day, it grossed over {{INR|50 crore}} worldwide becoming the sixth fastest Malayalam film to reach the mark.{{Cite web |author=Web Desk |date=2023-10-07 |title=9 ദിവസം 50 കോടി; ബോക്സ് ഓഫീസ് ചാമ്പി 'കണ്ണൂർ സ്ക്വാഡ്' |url=https://www.mediaoneonline.com/entertainment/kannur-squad-movie-in-50-crores-club-233061 |access-date=2023-11-03 |website=www.mediaoneonline.com |language=ml |archive-date=3 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103133425/https://www.mediaoneonline.com/entertainment/kannur-squad-movie-in-50-crores-club-233061 |url-status=live }} As of October 9 2023, the film collected {{INR|1 crore}} from Kochi multiplexes and {{INR|55.47 lakhs}} from Aries Plex Theatre, Thiruvananthapuram.{{Cite web |last=nirmal |title=105 പ്രദര്‍ശനങ്ങള്‍, 29,929 ടിക്കറ്റുകള്‍; 'കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ്' നേടിയ കളക്ഷന്‍ പുറത്തുവിട്ട് ഏരീസ് പ്ലെക്സ് |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/ariesplex-sl-cinemas-thiruvananthapuram-shares-kannur-squad-box-office-collection-mammootty-nsn-s29qq9 |access-date=2023-10-09 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=11 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011102347/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/ariesplex-sl-cinemas-thiruvananthapuram-shares-kannur-squad-box-office-collection-mammootty-nsn-s29qq9#tbl-em-lnllsi0bcdxekrl6yw5 |url-status=live }}

On its eleventh day, the film grossed over {{INR|65 crore}} worldwide.{{Cite web |last=vipinvk |title=മൂന്നാംവാരത്തിലേക്ക് കയറി കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ്; ബോക്സോഫീസ് പടത്തലവന്‍ മമ്മൂട്ടി, കളക്ഷന്‍ വിവരം ഇങ്ങനെ.! |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/kannur-squad-box-office-collections-in-third-week-towards-70-cr-vvk-s2csby |access-date=2023-10-11 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=11 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011102348/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/kannur-squad-box-office-collections-in-third-week-towards-70-cr-vvk-s2csby |url-status=live }} On its 12th day, the film collected {{INR|1.71 crore}} from North America and grossed over {{INR|29 crore}} from the overseas market. Grossing {{INR|32.72 crore}} from Kerala, the worldwide gross was ₹67.35 crore in 12 days.{{Cite web |title=kannur squad box office: പകരക്കാരില്ലാതെ മൂന്നാം വാരം; കളക്ഷനിലും 'സൂപ്പർ സ്ക്വാഡ്'; മമ്മൂട്ടി ചിത്രത്തിന് അമേരിക്കയിലും കോടിനേട്ടം |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment/box-office/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-box-office-north-america-kerala-roby-varghese-raj-nrn-s2d7wz |access-date=2023-10-13 |website=www.asianetnews.com |archive-date=13 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231013183018/https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment/box-office/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-box-office-north-america-kerala-roby-varghese-raj-nrn-s2d7wz |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=12 October 2023 |title=ഒന്നാമൻ ആ ചിത്രം, 'റോഷാക്കി'നെ മറികടന്ന് 'കണ്ണൂർ സ്ക്വാഡ്'; വിദേശമാർക്കറ്റിലെ മമ്മൂട്ടി തരംഗം |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment/box-office/top-6-overseas-grossers-malayalam-actor-mammootty-kannur-squad-nrn-s2f4i7 |access-date=13 October 2023 |website=Asianet News |language=ml |archive-date=14 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231014052535/https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment/box-office/top-6-overseas-grossers-malayalam-actor-mammootty-kannur-squad-nrn-s2f4i7 |url-status=live }} It earned {{INR|70 crore}} worldwide by collecting {{INR|33.50 crore}} from Kerala within its 15 days of release.{{Cite web |title=മമ്മൂട്ടിയുടെ കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്‍ക്വാഡ് 15 ദിവസത്തില്‍ നേടിയത്, വിസ്‍മയിപ്പിക്കുന്ന നേട്ടം |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment/box-office/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-collection-report-out-earns-33-50-crores-in-15-days-hrk-s2gob0 |access-date=2023-10-13 |website=www.asianetnews.com |archive-date=15 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231015002119/https://www.asianetnews.com/amp/entertainment/box-office/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-collection-report-out-earns-33-50-crores-in-15-days-hrk-s2gob0 |url-status=live }}

The film grossed {{INR|75 crore}} in the worldwide box office collection after 18 days of its release by collecting {{INR|42.50 crore}} domestically.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-17 |title=Mammootty-starrer Kannur Squad Mints Over Rs 75 Crore Worldwide |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-mints-over-rs-75-crore-worldwide-8621700.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231017104524/https://www.news18.com/movies/mammootty-starrer-kannur-squad-mints-over-rs-75-crore-worldwide-8621700.html |archive-date=17 October 2023 |access-date=2023-10-17 |website=News18 |language=en}} As of October 17 2023 it grossed over US$3.893 million ({{INR|32.40 crore}}) from overseas with US$3.152 million from the UAE, GCC, US$316K from the European market, US$270K from North America, US$105K from New Zealand and Australia.{{Cite web |last=vipinvk |title=യുഎഇ, യൂറോപ്പ്, അമേരിക്ക, ഓസ്ട്രേലിയ.. വിദേശ ബോക്സോഫീസും കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ് പിടിച്ചു; കണക്കുകള്‍ ഇങ്ങനെ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squad-18-days-overseas-box-office-collection-mammootty-movie-vvk-s2noow |access-date=2023-10-19 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=19 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231019093602/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squad-18-days-overseas-box-office-collection-mammootty-movie-vvk-s2noow |url-status=live }} The film grossed {{INR|80 crore}} in 25 days of its release.{{Cite web |last=nithya |title=വരുന്നവർ വരട്ടെ, തളരാതെ 'പടത്തലവൻ'; പണംവാരിക്കൂട്ടി 'കണ്ണൂർ സ്ക്വാഡ്', ഇതുവരെ നേടിയത് |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-box-office-collection-roby-varghese-raj-nrn-s3371b |access-date=2023-10-27 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027125750/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/mammootty-movie-kannur-squad-box-office-collection-roby-varghese-raj-nrn-s3371b |url-status=live }} The film collected £204,523 from the United Kingdom and Ireland.{{Cite web |last=nithya |title='ജോർജ് മാർട്ടി'നെ വെട്ടി 'ആർഡിഎക്സ്' പിള്ളേര്‍, ഒന്നാമൻ ആ ചിത്രം; വിദേശ കളക്ഷനിൽ മുന്നിലുള്ള സിനിമകൾ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/top-sevan-mollywood-movies-in-uk-and-ireland-kannur-squad-rdx-mammootty-nrn-s3hq2j |access-date=2023-11-02 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=2 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102110515/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/top-sevan-mollywood-movies-in-uk-and-ireland-kannur-squad-rdx-mammootty-nrn-s3hq2j |url-status=live }}

On its theatrical run, the film has collected {{INR|2.40 crore}} from the Kochi multiplexes.{{Cite web |last=honey |title=Kannur Squads box office collection report out Mammootty starrer close to four crores in PIC chains hrk |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squads-cochin-multiplexes-collection-report-out-mammootty-starrer-earns-2-40-crore-hrk-s3lvdz |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=5 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231105094105/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squads-cochin-multiplexes-collection-report-out-mammootty-starrer-earns-2-40-crore-hrk-s3lvdz |url-status=live }} The film ran over 50 days in theatres{{Cite news |date=2023-11-17 |title=Mammootty expresses gratitude as 'Kannur Squad' marks glorious 50-day run in theatres |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-expresses-gratitude-as-kannur-squad-marks-glorious-50-day-run-in-theatres/articleshow/105282877.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-11-20 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120041805/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-expresses-gratitude-as-kannur-squad-marks-glorious-50-day-run-in-theatres/articleshow/105282877.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }} collecting {{INR|42 crore}} from Kerala {{INR|5.75 crore}} from other regions of India, {{INR|34.25 crore}} from overseas{{Cite web |last=nirmal |title=ഒടിടിയില്‍ ഇന്ന് അര്‍ധരാത്രി; 'കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ്' തിയറ്ററില്‍ നിന്ന് ഇതുവരെ എത്ര നേടി? |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squad-final-box-office-collection-before-ott-release-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-disney-plus-hotstar-nsn-s47t7f |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120041805/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squad-final-box-office-collection-before-ott-release-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-disney-plus-hotstar-nsn-s47t7f |url-status=live }} reaching its gross {{INR|82 crore}} from the worldwide box office, becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time.{{Cite web |last=nirmal |title=രജനി, അജിത്ത് ആരാധകര്‍ക്ക് 'കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡി'ല്‍ എന്താണ് കാര്യം? സോഷ്യല്‍ മീഡിയ റിയാക്ഷനുകള്‍ക്ക് പിന്നില്‍ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/rajinikanth-and-ajith-kumar-fans-shares-scenes-from-kannur-squad-here-is-the-reason-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-nsn-s49t42 |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120041805/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment-news/rajinikanth-and-ajith-kumar-fans-shares-scenes-from-kannur-squad-here-is-the-reason-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-nsn-s49t42 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=nirmal |title=ആകെ കളക്ഷന്‍റെ പകുതിയിലധികവും ആദ്യ വാരം! 'കണ്ണൂര്‍ സ്ക്വാഡ്' 82 കോടിയിലേക്ക് എത്തിയത് ഇങ്ങനെ |url=https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squad-week-wise-box-office-breakdown-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-nsn-s4ektv |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |language=ml |archive-date=20 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231120041805/https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/kannur-squad-week-wise-box-office-breakdown-mammootty-roby-varghese-raj-nsn-s4ektv |url-status=live }}

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