Many people, especially fans of genuine and relatable stories, have always loved Malayalam movies. The Malayalam film industry not only features touching storylines but also offers a diverse range of entertainers.
Here are some of the Must Watch Malayalam Movies from the impressive film history of Malayalam cinema, crafted for the ultimate viewing pleasure.
1. Iyobinte Pusthakam
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
When compiling a ranking of the Must Watch Malayalam Movies, Iyobinte Pusthakam starring Fahadh Faasil is a definite must-have for representing recent years. Amal Neerad directed the period drama thriller film set in Munnar during the 20th century. The movie narrates the story of Aloshy, an ex-officer of the Royal Indian Navy who comes back to his hometown to reunite with his family and first love from his youth. His father, Iyob, a renowned person in the country, enjoys a lavish lifestyle with his older sons, Ivan and Dimitri.
Blessed with privilege, Iyob disapproves of Aloshy's life choices and romantic partner, leading to him being kicked out of the house. The storyline becomes more serious when the youngest brother discovers that his siblings are conspiring against their father, acting as the hired muscle for a nearby entrepreneur. The movie is seen as a blend of various literary classics such as King Lear by William Shakespeare, The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky, and the Book of Job from the Bible.
2. Premalu
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Must Watch Malayalam Movies featuring Naslen and Mamitha Baiju, titled Premalu, are guaranteed to make you smile and burst out laughing. The romantic comedy film, helmed by Girish AD, showcases the story of Sachi, a fresh engineering graduate who is destined to depart his hometown and journey to the United Kingdom.
Nevertheless, because of financial difficulties, his visa application is denied, causing him to avoid returning to his hometown. He chooses to accompany his fellow classmate to Hyderabad. In his directionless life, he encounters Reenu, a fresh recruit in a software company towards whom he develops feelings. The remainder of the movie focuses on Sachin's attempts to win over Reenu and if she will eventually return his feelings. While the movie has a straightforward plot, the production, soundtrack, and acting of each character elevate the film to something unique. Most young men under 25 will find Sachin and his life relatable in every movie scene.
3. Urumi
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Where to watch: Sun NXT
If you are a fan of historical dramas, make sure to watch the movie Urumi starring the actor Prithviraj Sukumaran. The movie takes place in the 16th century during the Portuguese invasion of India and tells the story of Murikkancheri Kelu who wants revenge for his father's defeat by the colonizers.
Kelu is joined by Vavvali of Nagapattinam and Princess Ayesha of Arackel, among others, on his revenge mission. The movie features an intricately crafted historical drama with incredible acting, alongside a collection of stunning musical scores and action sequences, making it a must-see experience. Listed above are some of the Must Watch Malayalam Movies that the film industry has to offer, making them essential viewing for all movie enthusiasts and cinephiles.
4. Kumbalangi Nights
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
If you are a fan of uplifting drama films, make sure to watch the 2019 movie Kumbalangi Nights. The movie follows a dysfunctional family consisting of four brothers residing on the outskirts of the village of Kumbalangi. Following the passing of their father and the abandonment by their mother, the siblings have a conflicted relationship with societal expectations, teetering between love and hate.
Following a series of events happening at the same time in their lives, the brothers set aside their hostility and work together to overcome obstacles in order to achieve a more positive life. To discover the film's surprise, keep an eye out for Fahadh Faasil's outstanding performance as Shammi.
Also Read: Top 10 Telugu Movies: From R.R.R To Baahubali The Conclusion
5. Premam
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
When it comes to Must Watch Malayalam Movies and beloved classics, the 2015 Alphonse Puthren movie Premam is included. This beautifully crafted coming-of-age romance movie tells the story of George and his romantic pursuits at different points in his life.
The main character experiences several romantic setbacks and letdowns from their teenage years through to their adult life. The movie centers on the progression of his romantic relationships and how he deals with them, shaping his personal growth. The film stars Nivin Pauly in the main role, while Sai Pallavi, Madonna Sebastian, and Anupama Parameswaran have important supporting roles.
6. Jallikattu
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
One indie action thriller film that everyone should see at least once for its engaging storyline and themes is Lijo Jose Pellissery's Jallikattu. This one of the Must Watch Malayalam Movies is based in a rural village with hills and follows the story of a day and night where the villagers are chasing after a bull that got away from a nearby slaughterhouse.
The search for the bull and the villagers' desire for meat that day form the remaining storyline, illustrating how people can revert to primal behaviors during times of intense disorder. The theme effectively displays how humans with a desire for violence are similar to animals in a slaughterhouse at their most savage.
7. Thanmathra
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
In 2005, the Aadujeevitham director delivered a timeless Mohanlal movie that will be remembered for generations. Not only is it essential to watch this movie, but it is also challenging to revisit it for a second viewing. The movie Thanmathra, helmed by Blessy, narrates the tale of Ramesan Nair, a civil servant who enjoys a contented life with his spouse and children.
Ramehsan's behavior takes a peculiar turn, as he starts acting oddly both at home and in the office. Shortly after, he receives a diagnosis of Familial Alzheimer's disease, resulting in a progressive decline in memory and cognitive function. The remainder of the movie highlights his family's adaptation to the new situation, with Mohanlal delivering a highly acclaimed and unforgettable performance.
Also Read: Best 10 Kannada Suspense Thriller Films: From U Turn To Mufti