Malayalam cinema has grown to be one of the most innovative and influential film industries in India over the years. From revolutionary storylines to iconic performances, these films have not only changed the course of Malayalam cinema but also made an indelible mark on Indian cinema as a whole. If you're a fan of new-age storytelling, strong characters, and meaningful themes, these films are a must-watch.
Following is a list of some of the Malayalam movies that have forever altered the face of cinema (in my opinion).
1. Manjummel Boys (2024) – Youthful Rebellion and Modern Storytelling
Manjummel Boys, which came out in 2024, is a real reflection of the changing face of Malayalam cinema. The film explores the lives of a group of youngsters who find themselves caught between the turmoil of daily pressures and rebellious instincts. With raw emotions, intense friendship, and defiance of societal norms as its fundamental themes, the movie enters the realm of the younger generation.
What sets Manjummel Boys apart is its treatment of youth culture, making it highly relevant to the current generation. The film’s exploration of real-life struggles and the journey of self-discovery resonates with viewers, making it a significant addition to the genre. If you’re into films that explore modern youth with depth and authenticity, this is one to watch.
Watch Manjummel Boys on Hotstar.
2. Charlie (2015) – A Whimsical Journey of Self-Discovery
One of these movies that changed the face of romantic drama in Malayalam cinema is Charlie. The 2015 movie takes the audience on a whimsical journey with Charlie, a free spirit whose exploits and escapades spark the curiosity of all those people around him. The film not only captivates the audience with its visual beauty but also with its experimental narrative that combines romance, adventure, and a touch of mystery.
The film's success lies in its non-linear narration and how easily it balances the light-heartedness and heavy emotional themes. Charlie's self-realization and the way the film records the redemptive quality of relationships saw the film changing the game in Malayalam cinema. It's a good example of how a fresh vision can provide a new lease of life for a routine genre.
Watch Charlie on Prime.
3. Bangalore Days (2014) – Friendship, Love, and the Spirit of Youth
Released in the year 2014, Bangalore Days became a milestone film of Malayalam cinema by redefining the template of friendship dramas. The film follows the story of three cousins as they lead their lives in the city of Bangalore, tackling the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery. What makes this film stand apart is its realistic portrayal of real-life relationships, capturing the reality of friendships in today's day and age, and the challenges of adulthood.
The film's high energy, combined with the relatability of its characters' journeys, made Bangalore Days a massive success. It resonated with a lot of people, and the fresh take on friendship, love, and self-discovery helped it become a cult classic in Malayalam cinema.
Watch Bangalore Days on Disney+ Hotstar.
4. Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016) – A Tale of Revenge, Redemption, and Simplicity
And then, in 2016, there was Maheshinte Prathikaaram as a breath of fresh air in Malayalam cinema. The film is a drama with a touch of humor and is the story of Mahesh, a photographer who seeks revenge for a trivial insult. But what makes this film different is the way it stands the classic story of revenge on its head by founding the plot on forgiveness and self-development.
Unlike most revenge films, Maheshinte Prathikaaram stands out for its simplicity and for its examination of the human condition. The way it captures the simplicity of a small-town life and the complexities of relationships is endearing and relatable. This film demonstrated that a simple, well-told narrative could have more emotional depth than bigger-than-life stories.
Watch Maheshinte Prathikaaram on Amazon Prime.
5. Kumbalangi Nights (2019) – Redefining Family and Relationships
Kumbalangi Nights, which came out in 2019, is one of the most highly rated Malayalam films in recent years. It is a new spin on love and family life. The film is based on the life of four brothers who come from a broken family and how things between them change after they become entangled in a troubled marriage.
What gives Kumbalangi Nights its strength is the delicate manner in which it handles emotional healing and the narrative of broken families finding redemption. The handling of the subtle balance between family relationships and personal development in the movie connected with audiences and critics alike, and it is one of the most important movies of contemporary Malayalam cinema.
Watch Kumbalangi Nights on Amazon Prime.
6. Premam (2015) – A Coming-of-Age Love Story that Captured Hearts
When Premam came out in 2015, it was a classic right away and changed the face of Malayalam romantic films forever. Directed by Alphonse Puthren, the film was about the life of George, a young boy who falls in love at different points in his life. The film accurately captured the emotions of first love, heartbreak, and the bitter-sweet nature of growing up.
Premam resonated with people as it was a realistic portrayal of love, with no exaggerated gestures or melodrama. It's a film that has become the face of coming-of-age love stories in Malayalam cinema. The film's success was not just in the story but also in the chemistry between the characters and the cult soundtrack.
Watch Premam on Jio Hotstar.
7. Nna, Thaan Case Kodu (2022) – A Legal Thriller with Dark Humor
A dark comedy and courtroom drama like no other, Nna, Thaan Case Kodu (2023) is a legal thriller that keeps audiences at the edge of their seats and simultaneously makes them laugh. The film is about a man's quest for justice in a court case that unfolds with surprising developments. The film stands out for its satirical take on the legal system and its offbeat characters.
The film’s success lies in its unconventional storytelling, blending suspense with humor. It’s a film that not only entertains but also offers social commentary on the absurdities of the legal process. For those looking for a fresh take on courtroom dramas, Nna, Thaan Case Kodu is a must-watch.
Watch Nna, Thaan Case Kodu on Jio Hotstar.
8. The Great Indian Kitchen (2021) – A Bold Social Commentary
The Great Indian Kitchen, which came out in 2021, is a powerful social drama that addresses the gender inequalities in Indian families. The film focuses on the life of a newlywed bride who is expected to fulfill the traditional role of a wife by managing the kitchen and household chores. The subtle yet incisive comments on patriarchy in the movie connected with audiences, and it became one of the most debated films of 2021.
The Great Indian Kitchen changed the way we look at domestic roles in Indian cinema and brought to light the systematic issues that women face in everyday life. It's a movie that gets you talking and introspecting and is therefore a must-watch for everyone interested in socially relevant cinema.
Watch The Great Indian Kitchen on Amazon Prime.
These films are the transforming times of Malayalam cinema, showing us how innovation, bold storytelling, and social relevance can change the course of an entire industry. There was something new in each of these movies, making them a must-watch for any cinephile. Don't miss these classic films that continue to shape the future of Malayalam cinema!
For more exciting Malayalam films, visit our Watching Guide.
Image Courtesy: IMDB.
