Top 10 Malayalam Movies (2024)

1. Kalyanaraman (2010)

• Genre: Romantic Comedy

• Plot: Kalyanaraman is the story of a charming wedding planner, Ramankutty, who finds himself falling in love with a woman, Radhika, who comes from a totally different cultural background. The film is set against the backdrop of weddings, and much of the plot revolves around Ramankutty trying to win over Radhika, who initially dislikes him due to the cultural differences. As the story progresses, Ramankutty’s humorous and loving nature starts breaking down Radhika’s reservations.

• Why Watch?: The movie beautifully blends comedy with emotional depth. It’s filled with hilarious moments, and at the same time, it touches on important cultural values and relationships. The family dynamic and the film’s lightheartedness make it a feel-good experience.

2. Premam (2015)

• Genre: Romantic Drama

• Plot: “Premam” tells the life story of George, an ordinary guy who experiences love in different forms over the years. From his first crush on a school teacher to his relationship with a college friend, and finally, a mature relationship with a woman he meets later in life, the film covers his emotional evolution. The film’s beauty lies in how it portrays the complexities of love and heartbreak while celebrating youthful exuberance and the poignant realities of growing up.

• Why Watch?: “Premam” is a heartfelt journey of love and growth. Its nostalgic themes, charming characters, and soul-stirring music make it a memorable experience. It’s not just a love story, but a story about self-discovery, friendship, and finding one’s place in life.

3. Drishyam (2013)

• Genre: Thriller, Drama

• Plot: Georgekutty, an ordinary man with a humble background, is forced to go to extreme lengths to protect his family when they become inadvertently involved in a crime. The film’s gripping narrative centers around Georgekutty’s struggle to cover up a crime that he believes is crucial to his family’s safety. The movie unfolds as an intricate puzzle, filled with tension, clever twists, and a cat-and-mouse game between the police and Georgekutty’s family.

• Why Watch?: “Drishyam” is a masterpiece of suspense and thrill, with exceptional storytelling and unpredictable twists. It’s a study of human nature and the extremes one can go to when protecting loved ones. The film’s clever narrative, combined with powerful performances, ensures it remains a landmark in Indian cinema.

4. Bangalore Days (2014)

• Genre: Drama, Romance

• Plot: “Bangalore Days” follows three cousins, Arjun, Divya, and Kuttan, who move to Bangalore to find their individual identities. Arjun seeks freedom from family expectations, Divya is navigating a complicated relationship, and Kuttan is trying to figure out his own path while dealing with personal insecurities. Their intertwined lives and relationships form the core of the film. As they navigate their individual challenges, they learn the importance of friendship, love, and self-discovery.

• Why Watch?: The film is a beautiful celebration of life and relationships. With its emotional depth, humor, and heartwarming moments, “Bangalore Days” is a tale about friendship, love, and growing up. The chemistry between the characters and the vibrant backdrop of Bangalore make it a visual and emotional delight.

5. Ustad Hotel (2012)

• Genre: Drama

• Plot: Faizal, a young man, dreams of becoming a famous chef but is forced to return to his grandfather’s modest restaurant in Kozhikode after his plans in the city fall apart. Initially reluctant, Faizal learns valuable life lessons from his wise grandfather about food, life, and the importance of family. The story highlights his personal growth as he struggles to balance his ambition with the values passed down from his grandfather.

• Why Watch?: The film is deeply inspiring and resonates with anyone who has dreamed of carving their own path in life. It’s a heartwarming story about love, heritage, and the pursuit of one’s passion. The relationship between Faizal and his grandfather adds an emotional layer that stays with you long after the film ends.

6. Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum (2017)

• Genre: Drama, Thriller

• Plot: The story revolves around a young couple who is on their way to get married when they are caught up in a robbery involving a gold chain. The thief, who steals their chain, is later apprehended by the police, but the story turns into an exploration of human nature as the characters deal with the situation in unexpected ways. The film explores themes of morality, human flaws, and justice.

• Why Watch?: This movie is an intriguing exploration of human behavior and morality. It doesn’t just focus on the crime but also delves deeply into the emotions and motivations of its characters. The subtle performances and the realistic portrayal of everyday life make it an unforgettable experience.

7. Manichitrathazhu (1993)

• Genre: Psychological Thriller, Drama

• Plot: A newly married woman, Ganga, begins to behave erratically after moving into her husband’s ancestral home, which is believed to be haunted. The strange behavior triggers a series of mysterious events, leading her family to consult a psychiatrist, Dr. Sunny. As the truth unravels, it becomes clear that the events are linked to an ancient family curse.

• Why Watch?: “Manichitrathazhu” is a brilliantly crafted psychological thriller. The film blends suspense, psychological drama, and supernatural elements perfectly. Shobana’s exceptional performance as Ganga, combined with the movie’s unexpected twists, makes it a must-watch.

8. Njan Prakashan (2018)

• Genre: Comedy, Drama

• Plot: Prakashan, a lazy young man, is tired of his ordinary life and constantly dreams of a better life abroad. However, his journey of self-discovery begins when he gets entangled in the lives of those around him. The film beautifully showcases how he grows through his relationships with his family and friends, finding his way and understanding the importance of love and responsibility.

• Why Watch?: It’s a film that balances humor with poignant life lessons. The relatable character of Prakashan, his growth throughout the film, and the charming performances make it both funny and heartwarming.

9. Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016)

• Genre: Drama, Comedy

• Plot: The film follows Mahesh, a photographer in a small town who is humiliated after a minor altercation. Seeking revenge, Mahesh sets off on a personal journey to restore his dignity, only to learn valuable lessons about forgiveness, growth, and the triviality of petty revenge.

• Why Watch?: It’s a slow-burning, character-driven film that beautifully tackles themes of revenge, forgiveness, and personal growth. With its simplicity, humor, and deep emotional resonance, it’s a standout in Malayalam cinema.

10. 22 Female Kottayam (2012)

• Genre: Thriller, Drama

• Plot: Tessa, a young woman, experiences betrayal when her boyfriend exploits her trust and then abandons her. The film takes a dark turn as Tessa seeks revenge in a brutal way, ultimately taking matters into her own hands. The narrative delves into the emotional and psychological consequences of betrayal and revenge.

• Why Watch?: “22 Female Kottayam” is raw and intense. It’s a gripping thriller that explores themes of empowerment, trauma, and revenge, with a strong performance from the lead actress, Rima Kallingal. The movie doesn’t hold back and leaves a lasting impact.